In a fiercely contested battle between last season’s second and third place teams, Kendal Wasps took the 19-7 win at Mint Bridge over Sefton, giving themselves an early foothold in the top half of the table.
Both teams had previously secured victories at home against each other, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown that saw a solid defensive display from each side.
Strong winds from Storm Ashley blighted play in the first half, with numerous handling errors from the Kendal side allowing Sefton to dominate and score the first try within 10 minutes.
But as the sun broke through, so did the Wasps attacking lines and after a strong build-up, powerhouse flanker Sarah Wilkinson outmanoeuvred the opposition to take the ball over the try line.
Sophie Postlethwaite’s conversion attempt was only very narrowly missed, bringing the score to 5-7.
From then on in, the Wasps’ defence proved rock solid, preventing Sefton from capitalising on their initial territorial advantage.
After a fumbled restart that gave Sefton a scrum, Kendal’s livewire scrumhalf Emma Lifshitz seized an opportunity to dart down the wing before cutting infield to secure a second try for the Wasps.
This time, Postlethwaite converted successfully, extending the lead to 12-7 as the first half concluded.
The Wasps were clinging on to only a narrow lead as the second half commenced and a determined Sefton were threatening to break through when outside centre, Allysia Hine, made a crucial tackle that drove the attacking player into touch and took the wind out of Sefton’s sails.
Finally, with 10 minutes left on the clock, Wilkinson broke through Sefton’s steadfast defence yet again to score a further try. Fullback, Tamar Benson, added the conversion, bringing the score to 19-7.
Both teams had chances in the closing minutes, but the score remained unchanged, with the Wasps securing a well-deserved victory.
It was a match that underscored the competitive nature of the Women’s Championship North 2 league and highlighted the importance of defensive strength.
In the post-match speeches, prop Amber Byers, was recognised as Forward of the Match for an impressive work-rate and some excellent tip-on passes, while Number 10, Lorne Mellonie, was given Back of the Match for her well-communicated and influential decisions, and some notable interceptions and turnovers.
Lifshitz was named as the opposition’s Player of the Match.
While the Wasps will look to improve their handling, the extreme weather was a significant factor, and their tackling remained top-notch throughout the game.
The next match is a highly anticipated triple-header at Birkenhead Park on Saturday October 26, where all three of Kendal RUFC’s senior teams are scheduled to play.
