Carlisle Cougars played their first game of 2023 at home to familiar opponents Blaydon Red Kites.
Over a month had past since they had last been in action so both sides were just pleased to get back onto the pitch.
The Cougars had not won against Blaydon and although beaten 33-17 it was a big step forward from their last meeting early in the season.
Blaydon started the try scoring six minutes into the game and added the conversion to send out an early warning.
However the Cougars were soon just metres away from the Blaydon line and when Sarah Smyth saw a gap she used it well to put the hosts first points on the board.
Noticeable from the last clash between the two sides was the improvement by the Cougars in their scrummaging.
However, a break from the defensive line meant Blaydon scored again but again Carlisle responded well.
Philippa Chadwick saw what was needed to be done by kicking over the Blaydon defensive line and Vanessa Hagen was there on the end of the chase to claim the try.
The first-half ended with Blaydon ahead 19-10 but the Cougars very much in the contest.
The Red Kites proved to be very good at off-loading in contact and they used this to their advantage by scoring two tries, converting one, to extend their lead.
However, the Cougars were not going to lose without a fight and second row Jess Barnes did superbly to push multiple Blaydon players backwards right under the posts and score. Captain Jess Hetherington converted.
Although beaten the step-up from last time they met was regarded as a big step forward by the Cougars.
Top player awards for Carlisle went to:
Forward of the match, Jess Barnes; Back of the match, Sarah Smyth; Opposition choice as player of the match, Vanessa Hagen.
The Cougars are back in action this Sunday when they travel to Darlington.
