Workington Zebra Finches completed their first season in RFU League 1 North with a 12th defeat in succession as they went down 61-5 at The Ellis to Horden Valkyries, writes John Hastings.
Horden were clinically lethal on the break and helped themselves to nine tries, including a hat-trick by Emmy Holloway and Liv Wright converting all bar one
The result should not be taken as face value however, because Workington had extended periods of domination – especially in the first half – and only the resolute Horden defence thwarted them from scoring more than one try.
That finally came twelve minutes from time when Lottie Cammack bulldozed her way through to go over.
Rachael Cairns was making her 100th appearance for the Finches and performed tidily both in scrummaging and line-outs, while Rose Cleeton – who reached her century last week – displayed her usual efficiency with doughty scrummaging and clean ball carrying.
As well as scoring her ninth try of the season, Lottie Cammack also produced big carries, crucial line breaks and fierce driving, while Stacey Carruthers worried Horden with her masterful kicking which included a rare 50:22, wherein her kick from Workington’s half bounced and went into touch inside Horden’s 22 metre line, resulting in a Finches line-out.
It has been a tough season for the Finches, compounded by several key players moving on and a severe injury list, but in every game played, their dedication, commitment and most of all pride in wearing the shirt has been second to none, earning high praise from their opponents in the process.
There have also been several positives – Meagan McAndrew, in her first season as captain, has grown in confidence with every game and along with the creative Sophie Weir and the ever-reliable Danielle Easdon has been rewarded with a call-up to the Cumbria squad for the county championship.
Both Meagan and Sophie are in the squad for Cumbria’s first match at Leicestershire this Sunday.
Also, new Finches players have emerged including Rosie Richardson, Jessica Reid, Kia Moralee, Rebeka Cuthbertson and Jenny McCullough to name but a few who have all delivered on the pitch as and when required and will be hungry for regular action next season and beyond.
So while it has not been a season to look back on with fondness, Workington Zebra Finches will return stronger and focused in time for kick off next September – a step back today can lead to to great steps tomorrow.
