Ladies show determined performance against Kirton

After last week’s heroics it was going to be all ‘hands to the pump’ as Withycombe Ladies hosted Crediton. In the return fixture it had seen a heavy away defeat for the Exmouth based club, but this was a more assured performance and a much closer match.

Crediton had over 80% of possession and territory for the first 15 minutes and they constantly gained ground only to be repelled by the Withy defence. As Withies grew into the game, they gained some time with the ball as the forwards laid a platform for the explosive backs to then exploit. Several phases led Withies to within 10m of the try line and slick hands allowed full back Kel Fox to go over in clubhouse corner on 18minutes. Crediton responded almost immediately from the restart, scoring under the posts with the conversion to follow.

A period of scrappy play saw possession change hands several times with Crediton having the better of the territory throughout. They looked like they had created the perfect overlap to increase their lead when Caitlyn Perry intercepted a pass to run 65m and hold off the chasing cover tackle. Crediton responded again and caught the home team napping when a tap penalty saw their second try and conversion from under the posts shortly before half time. 12-14 at the interval was an excellent return for Withies’ endeavors.

Crediton scored soon after the restart and then an injury near the touchline meant a change to the game. Both teams agreed to reduce the pitch size in order to complete the match, so the playing area was narrowed by 15m. This led to a much more forward battle as there was far less space. Withies gained in confidence and had a period of sustained pressure. Amy Gillard thought she had scored, only to realise it was the wrong line, but fortunately Laurie Ranft was aware enough to pick up the ball and gallop over to reduce the deficit to 4 points with 10 minutes remaining.

Again Crediton rallied and scored, but Withies were not done and a great piece of team play saw Brandie Squires race in for the home side’s fourth try. There was time for one last play, but despite a promising maul being collapsed the ref blew for full time. Whilst it was defeat for Withycombe Ladies they will take great heart from the performance and the much improved score-line. A big thank-you must go to Chris and Shelley Goldfinch for their continued support of the team and awards for players-of-the-match. Terrianne Densham received the forward accolade and Caitlyn Perry the back of the match for their work rate, tackles and decisive carries.