Ladies’ prove far too strong for Ashbourne
MACCLESFIELD Women’s XV kept up their unbeaten record this season with a very strong performance away at Ashbourne.
Although the ladies at Ashbourne have got together a large squad they are new to the game and had a tough day against the improving Macclesfield team that will be moving into the league structure next season.
Outside Centre Chloe Newbigging was first to score for Macclesfield, although new to the game she has real pace and is a natural sportswoman who is evidently enjoying herself at Macclesfield, as it wasn’t long before she scored her second try of the day.
Although Ashbourne had a concerted effort in attack, Macclesfield’s defence was solid; when the ball was run again from the backs, it was the experienced Mary Thorp that got over, soon followed by her second, for another brace of tries. Inside Centre Sophie Barnett-Hubbard, was next on the score-sheet with a try, which was converted by Captain Mel Bramley. Macclesfield took the opportunity to bring on Alyssa Harrison for her first start, but the pressure continued with Chloe
Newbigging, grabbing her hat-trick.
After a charge down the wing by Estrella MendezBryden the ball was reset before Sarah Naden went crashing through and over the try line taking them to half time.
After the restart Captain Mel Bramley chose to take a tap-and-go, and made a quick dash, diving for the try line in the corner to get the first score of the second half. Sophie BarnettHubbard, now at Outside Centre received quick-ball from the ruck and charged directly through the defensive line to score and Louise Anderson converted the extras. Within 10 minutes Louise Anderson’s supporting running of Hannah Green would yield a try for herself, which she also converted.
The pack would finish the game with a big shift that would give the backs another opportunity to score, and it fell to Newbigging to finish with four tries, and another conversion for Anderson.
It’s evident by their performances that the Women’s squad has developed very well throughout the season, with players improving their skill sets playing in multiple positions. They are now at home for the remainder of the season with their next match in two weeks on the 7th April against Sheffield Hallam.