Harrogate Ladies have a hard battle at York RI

HARROGATE LADIES travelled to York on Sunday 11th December to play their final game of 2016 against league leaders, York RI. After frustrations following their previous game, Harrogate hoped for an honest and competitive game of Rugby and that is exactly what they got!

Both Harrogate and York started strong and with Harrogate hitting hard in defence, York’s push into the opposition’s half of the pitch was put on hold. Persistent pressure was laid on by Harrogate and the pace at which they were turning over rucks caused York problems. However, after some ground was made York managed to score the opening try of the match with a forward push over the line.

When play proceeded, there was a quick scrum on the left which was successful for Harrogate. Though possession was kept initially, the ball was turned over and York regained ground, making their way towards the try line again. However, the ball made its way back into Harrogate hands after they continued to apply pressure. The ball finally reached fullback, Ailish Clear who made a tactical turn and broke away up the left-hand side of the pitch supported by winger, Leah Birkin. The pair swiftly made their way towards York’s try line but were caught at the 22-metre line and denied of the try. A strong York scrum followed by some quick passes enabled York to make their lead 10-0 which was the standing score at half-time.

Shortly after the start of the second half York conceded an injury which shook their composure considerably. It was also evident as soon as play resumed that Harrogate had come back with a vengeance after half-time; their strength surged through in a scrum which was followed by some pacey passes by the backs. The ball was taken forward and through the defensive line by Birkin who found the perfect offload to centre, Evie Tonkin. Tonkin accelerated towards the try line, evaded the defence and finished the run by putting the ball down between the posts. Tonkin’s try (which was scored on her debut for Harrogate Ladies XV) was converted by Clear; Harrogate were looking strong and the score was 10-7 to York.

Harrogate continued to show strength in defence and aggression on the attack which was displayed by advances into York territory and tenacious tackles. This was however, reciprocated by the opposition which made Harrogate’s efforts to increase their score very difficult. York managed to seize the opportunity to push through Harrogate’s defensive line on two occasions towards the end of the second half. On both occasions, they managed to score sneakily which led to a final score of 24-7 to York.
Regardless of the score, Harrogate ended 2016 on a high and played an exceptional game of rugby against the league leaders, looking sharp throughout.

The Harrogate Ladies’ Christmas charity event, Santa Vs Elves match kicks off at 11 am on Saturday (17th December) at Rudding Lane. So, brace your ‘elves’ for a not to be missed, fun filled event followed by home games for both Harrogate 1st XV and the Georgians, kicking off consecutively at 1 and 2 pm. There will be mulled wine and mince pies for all in addition to the chance to win some fantastic, festive raffle prizes