It was a narrow loss to Beccehamian Ladies on the 12th February last season that meant that Streatham-Croydon missed out on the top spot in the league last year, so it was only fitting that having both been promoted they would play them almost exactly a year later at their ground. Coming away with a bonus point win demonstrates how far the team has progressed in the last twelve months.

The game started well with Streatham coming firing out of the blocks. The team began this season with slow starts to games but the last few matches have seen a significant shift in early mentality. They were able to put early pressure on the home side and had a great amount of possession and territory. Confident phase play from the forwards eventually saw the ball go wide to the hands of Phili May, playing for the first time on the wing. A great step from her saw her glide over for Streatham’s first try. This game saw another impressive performance from winger Grace Moore who made a powerful run down the right wing, caught just short by the fullback a metre from the try line. Quick thinking from scrum half Rachel Drapper saw her utilise her former back row skills and she powered over the line eventually managing to ground the ball in the corner.

After a good attacking period Streatham found themselves defending their half, but managed to hold their line. Beccehamians did manage to puncture the defence a few times but full back Dani Davies did well to keep them from scoring. The ladies showed a great amount of tenacity and patience in defence, eventually a turnover from number 8 Amy Allen allowed Ana O’Connor to clear. A solid chase and rip from Grace Moore put Streatham on the front foot and identifying a gap in the defensive line fly-half Millie Ross popped the ball to flanker Izzy Douglas who busted her way through to score.

Getting into their stride Streats continued to work hard; despite good line speed and defence from the opposition, they persevered and took their chances when they came. Tag rugby pair Dani Davies and Phili May linked up well again, Davies putting May into space to make a 60 metre run to score under the posts, converted by Davies. Streatham were able to take advantage of their bench and make a few changes, capitalising on Beccehamians tiring legs, and replacement winger Steph Sanchez made some huge hits in defence. Characteristically Grace Moore wasn’t going to come away from the game empty handed and in the final quarter managed to score a brace of tries to add to her season total. Beccehamians perseverance was rewarded in the 79th minute managing to create an overlap putting them over in the corner. Final score 34-5.

Next week Streatham-Croydon ladies play against Rosslyn Park away in the quarter final of the plate, 2.30pm kick off on Sunday. All support welcome.