Hunter doubles up as Lightning ease home
LOUGHBOROUGH Lightning returned to winning ways, putting in a dominant performance at home against fourth-placed Wasps.
Following last week’s defeat at Saracens that had finally ended their unbeaten start to the season, Lightning responded in perfect fashion as they wrapped up a maximum five points from the game.
The final score reflected the clinical nature of the home side as they ran in four tries to keep up the pressure on Saracens at the top of the table.
Lightning were able to rely on their internationals to play a leading role, as England skipper Sarah Hunter helped herself to a double, while Katy DaleyMclean pulled the strings from fly-half in a fine display.
The tempo of the game was set straight away by Lightning, with Hunter leading from the front, scoring in the third minute of the game to give the home side the perfect possible start.
It was then Wasps’ turn to put on the pressure as they camped on the Lightning 22 before slotting a penalty kick and getting on the scoreboard thanks to Lizzie Goulden.
Back on the front foot and gaining good momentum, Lightning struck once more through the forward pack, Hunter claiming her second of the game and extending their lead at halftime to 14-3.
With ball in hand Lightning’s backs looked dangerous, striking out wide.
It was one such attack that led to their third try of the game, with Jo Brown crossing the whitewash and Daley-Mclean converting.
With 15 minutes to spare Lightning clinched their bonus point try. A fantastic driving maul smashed through the Wasps defence allowing Leah Bartlett to dot down, giving DaleyMclean an easy conversion to extend the lead.
The final score however was to go to the visiting side, who after a prolonged period of attacking pressure managed to cross the try line through Hannah West on her 50th appearance for the side. With the try came the final whistle, seeing Lightning secure a convincing victory.
Lightning will now turn their attentions to next week’s trip to Harlequins, last year’s runners-up and the only team to beat Saracens this season.