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Waterfalls, Bunks and Rugby

Following a weekend in the Dales, Chesterfield arrived at Ilkley with a full (if slightly tired and very hungover) squad and subs. Having been forewarned of a lack of numbers on the part of the Home Team, the ladies were prepared for a match with rolling subs. They were, however, disappointed when they discovered that the scrums would have to be uncontested, a Panthers strength, at the request of theopposition.

Soon after Kick Off it was apparent that Ilkley had the upper hand in terms of speed with one stand out player, their number 12, and that Panthers legs were going to be stretched. However, after a couple of home team scores, the panther created a great blind move from a scrum called by number 10, Clare Mayes from behind the Half Way line and a pop pass to Centre, Vicky Bower, released her and her amazing speed down the side line to score in the corner, a cracking try!

By the time the second half arrived the rock hard ground was taking its toll on the bodies of the team and many were playing in unknown positions. However, the Panthers dug deep, and through rucking and mauling the Ball, they retained large amounts of possession. Josi Hensall lead the pack and through strength and support managed to create another try, driven over the line by Heather Antcliff. Some great tackling also came from every panther player on the pitch although and, although Ilkley continued to score through breakaway moves (some from deep within their half of the pitch), Panthers put in a convincing display of Rugby skills.

As Ilkley thought they were going to score another breakaway try they were wrong!! Cath Wynn chased the player down from half way to make the most amazing try saving tackle 5 metres from the line, and was quickly backed up by the rest of the panthers.

Every player on the pitch gave 100%; special thanks go to Kim Hyslop for standing in as captain and Cath Wynn for organizing and feeding us all weekend.

A man of the match wasn’t chosen but awarded to the whole team for their efforts, grit and determination.

Tries also came from Captain Kim and Cath with Kimmy brilliantly converting these.

The result should secure them third in the league, which reflects the solid spirit, determination and teamwork which has developed continually throughout the course of this season!! Roll on next season as this puts the team in good stead.

Give us a whoop whoop girls... Work that one out xx

Lets put a donk on it ready for the last game of season, 10th of May Ilkley home followed by our famous buffet and awards.