Team performance knocks out Canterbury challenge

Chelmsford Ladies knocked Canterbury Ladies out of the NCSES2 title race this afternoon with a team performance that can only bode well for the future. Canterbury could find only 13 players for this fixture, forcing the Ladies to match numbers by RFUW rules, effectively dropping both flankers. Throughout the match, the score rarely extended to more than one converted try either way, but the introduction of fresh legs and a tightening up of loose play around the contact area and the rucks led to Chelmsford Ladies scoring a decisive try through Kerrie Moss in the final minute of play, after a strong break from the departing Anneka Willis.

The wing and fullback pairing scored five of Chelm' Ladies six tries, Ali Ewers contributing the fifth as a backs move broke down, but allowed her to identify a gap and crash through from a scrum late in the second half. In the absence of a recognised goal kicker, Anneka Willis kicked two conversions, including a long distance effort from wide on the right. The contribution from all of the less experienced players was excellent, covering for those regular players missing through injury or other commitments and enabled the Ladies to step up and record a good win against a strong and determined Canterbury side.

Back of the match: Kerrie Moss
Forward of the match: Kristen O'Connell

This win now sets up Chelmsford Ladies for a promotion winning match against LEWES on 15th April 2012, where a win would ensure their promotion as Champions of NCSES2 for 2012.