Carlisle Cougars claimed a dominant 51-19 victory at Didsbury Toc Ladies in a thrilling encounter, despite travelling with only 15 players.
The Cougars produced an impressive first-half performance, scoring six tries before the break, and although Didsbury fought back in the second half with three tries of their own, the visitors held on to secure the win.
The Cougars wasted no time asserting their dominance. From the opening whistle, they displayed determination and grit, despite the challenges of having a reduced squad.
The Cougars backline was in excellent form, with some quick, incisive passes and well-timed runs that tore through the Didsbury defence.
The first try came early in the game when winger Sally Christie followed a kick from fly-half Sarah Smyth and got there ahead of the opposition to dive over for the score.
The visitors continued to press, and it wasn’t long before they crossed the home line again, with co-vice-captain Vanessa Hagen scoring the try.
The next try came from another co-vice-captain Hannah Wilkinson taking advantage of a gap in Didsbury’s defence.
Didsbury, although competitive, struggled to handle Carlisle’s pace and precision. The Cougars’ forwards were dominant in the scrums, allowing their backs to create space which allowed winger Sally Christie to get another two tries.
While captain Philippa Chadwick seeing a gap to score the sixth try and with two successful conversions from Smyth, Carlisle led 32-0 at half time.
Didsbury Toc showed great resilience after the break and came out with renewed determination. Their forwards started to gain some momentum, and their efforts paid off when they scored their first try.
Didsbury’s confidence grew, and soon they added a second try to the scoreboard.
However, Carlisle were not to be outdone. Despite Didsbury’s resurgence, the Cougars maintained their composure and found a way to strike back.
A great steal from flanker Caitlin Orr helped to stop Didsbury advance and from that point the Cougars added another three tries, including a brilliant solo effort from skipper Chadwick who sprinted half the length of the pitch to score after a clever pick and go.
Hannah Farrell, who had been instrumental in setting up some of the Cougar’s tries managed to get her first of the game before centre Megan Phillips-Craig stormed through several tackles to score the ninth try.
Didsbury’s third try came late in the game as they capitalised on a Carlisle error, but it was too little, too late.
Carlisle’s defence held firm, and the visitors finished the match with a commanding victory.
Players of the Match:
- Forward – Heather Catherwood
- Back – Sally Christie
- Opposition choice – Hannah Farrell
The Cougars have a big game on Sunday in the Intermediate Papa John’s Plate when they entertain Boston.
The Cougars always welcome new players and training is on Wednesdays 6.45pm to 8.30pm at Warwick Road.
