Wicklow tanked by Tullow

TULLOW WICKLOW 22 0

TABLE toppers Tullow trounced Wicklow on a bright, cold day in Black Gates. Watching the Wicklow ladies this season is not unlike watching Ulster; when they play well it is a joy to watch and when they do not, it is hard work.

Credit is due to Tullow, who obviously did not rest on their laurels over the Christmas period.

They were stronger and savvier than the Wicklow side. A simple, well-executed game plan saw them up 7-0 at half-time. Admittedly, the score line would have been much higher at this stage had it not been for some solid last-ditch defence efforts by Wicklow.

Individually there were some strong performance for Wicklow. Rachel and Caitlin Griffey, as well as Jessica Schmidt all did good work in the pack.

As did Marleyn-Cristin Kallas, whom tackled and rucked relentlessly. Tullow were, however, remorseless.

The Wicklow back-line was out of sorts.

They were on the defensive back-foot for much of the game. There were several missed tackles and when they had opportunities, they fell short due to knock-ons and loose passes.

Tullow continued to keep Wicklow behind their own 10-meter line for 90 per cent of the second half and when they came close to the line they threatened to score, and succeeded three more times. Wicklow set up an attack in the closing minutes, but a scrum call concluded the match.

This visit to Tullow will be a low point for the Wicklow ladies, however they will surely look to turn it around for their match next weekend.