Westbury Ladies faced Chipping Sodbury in their first home game of 2016

Westbury welcomed Chipping Sodbury to Knott Field for their first home game of 2016.

Westbury kicked off and Sodbury made quick progression up the field. Westbury were guilty of standing off the tackles slightly and Sodbury were making good use of the ball. With only 4 minutes played the visitors were awarded a penalty, they opted for the posts and made it 3-0.

Westbury returned and started putting the away team under a lot more pressure. They began to gain more possession of the ball. Both teams were battling hard and throwing their bodies around the park. Westbury kept battling but couldn't make the final pass stick with the first half ending 0 -3.

Westbury started the second half firing - determined to get the next score. They were camped in the Sodbury half and 15 minutes into the game were awarded a penalty in front of the posts, being nearly 30 meters out it was right on the edge of captain Lana Plummer's range. She stepped up with the support of the team but the kick fell slightly short. Not to be deterred though, Westbury soon regained possession and again were awarded a penalty this time it was closer to the posts and Lana took full advantage making it 3-3.

There was 15 minutes left and Westbury were going all out for the win. Sodbury's defence was standing firm. With 5 minutes to go, Westbury were awarded a penalty 5 meters out. To everyone's amazement Westbury Ladies opted not to take the 3 points (we are English after all) but to go for the try. After several phases of play and many players coming close, the ball was worked to centre Millie Fenton-Brown who stepped back inside and crashed over the line to touch down and put the home team in front. Lana stepped up again to convert - 10-3 to Westbury.

With only minutes left on the clock, Sodbury started working down the pitch. Some great defence from the whole team held them out and the final whistle was blown.

A massive win for Westbury and a great bounce back from last week's loss. Massive credit must go to Sodbury, with excellent defence throughout. We also send our best wishes to their winger who went off with a bad injury.

Special mention to flanker Maisie Chester and captain Lana Plummer for their Man of the Match awards. Westbury host top of the table SMOBL at home on Sunday in what should be a great game, so make sure you come down and support if you can!