Birthday girl Dani ends Sarries run
SARACENS might have hit three figures last weekend, but their unbeaten record was ended by local rivals Wasps in a hard-fought encounter decided by birthday girl Danielle Waterman.
The game started with high intensity, with Wasps controlling the game early and pushing for the first try, pinning Saracens back to their five-metre line.
However, the Saracens defence managed to brush off Wasps early pressure even when forced back. It was now time for Wasps defence to be tested. Saracens gained possession through a scrum leading to a lineout deep in the Wasps half. Just as Sarries had resisted early home pressure, Wasps did the same.
By the 24th minute both teams were locked in an intense battle of territory, both fighting to find a crack in the other’s line.
The conditions made things even more tricky. The rain led to a very slippery ball, causing multiple dropped balls and knock ons from both teams.
The battle intensified until the whistle blew for half-time with the game still scoreless and defences on top.
The second half began the way the first half left off, with Saracens immediately earning a lineout on the Wasps 22 from the kick-off. The first real chance for points came on 44 minutes when Saracens were awarded a penalty, but Helena Rowland’s effort fell short of the posts.
Wasps had an opportunity of their own ten minutes later, but just like Rowland, Hannah Edwards was offtarget with her effort.
Edwards was not deterred, and stepped up once more on the hour-mark, but again her kick went wide in the tricky conditions as the game entered its final quarter.
However, just as it seemed there may not be a score, Wasps grabbed the lead, with Waterman, on her 33rd birthday, crossing on 66 minutes.
Receiving the ball on the right, she showed an impressive burst of pace to get away and cross to give the home side the lead.
Saracens threw everything at it to turn the tide, but Wasps held on for the win.