Sarries seek clinical edge ahead of derby
Saracens .............. 21pts Wasps FC ................ 5pts
ALEX Austerberry has challenged his Saracens Women’s side to become more clinical ahead of next weekend’s London derby with Harlequins.
The north Londoners defeated rivals Wasps FC Ladies at Allianz Park to secure their fifth successive win and to continue their already-stern defence of their title.
Vicky Fleetwood’s try on the cusp of half-time and two quick-fire scores at the start of the second period gave Saracens the victory, but the team fell one try short of another bonuspoint victory.
“We had a lot of platforms inside the 22 that we didn’t convert and that will need to get better as the season grows – that is a real focus for us,” said Saracens head coach Austerberry.
“We go through periods of managing the game really well and then we lose a bit of momentum and that turned the game into a bit more of a fight than it needed to be.”
Austerberry put the victory down to the quick start Saracens made to the second half, which saw his team awarded a penalty try before captain Lotte Clapp intercepted a stray ball to race clear to put the hosts 21-0 up.
Wasps did manage to pull a try back through Sarah Mitchelson but Sarries held on to clinch the victory.
“We executed our counter-attack well and then to intercept with that line speed that we have been bringing it just gave us that breathing space and 21-point lead,” added Austerberry.
“But we will celebrate this victory as it was hardfought win against a side we have a lot of respect for.”
The Saracens head coach says his team relish the prospect of facing a talented Quins side – who currently lie third in the table – next time out.
“The derbies are brilliant. They are full-blooded,” said Austerberry. “It will be another tough encounter and they will be feisty.
“We need to secure our ball first and foremost and then become threatening on their ball.”
And Wasps winger Garnet Mackinder backed her side to bounce back against Richmond.
“We have got so many positives to take from this. We will definitely bounce back and are ready to put a load of points on Richmond,” she added.