Women’s rugby union is back at the Avenue after a break of over 30 years, but Wharfedale Ladies could not have wished for a tougher home opener on Sunday.
Having lost their first-ever league game, 22-5 at Huddersfield Laund Hill in NC3 North (South), last time out, they faced a formidable challenge at the weekend, as they hosted top-of-the-table West Park Leeds II.
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Despite the wet and windy weather and the might of their opponents, the Wharfedale squad of 22 players showed tremendous spirit, though they fielded a team noted as being predominantly inexperienced.
The match saw some notable debuts and positional changes forced by injury.
Alexandra Calvert stepped into the crucial role of hooker due to the absence of the injured Ella-Mae Gibson.
Demonstrating the club’s successful development pathway, Cora Hartford made her senior debut at fly-half, fresh out of the Minis and Juniors program.
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Additionally, Daisy Kirk made her first ever rugby appearance on the wing, a significant step into the senior game.
A disciplined and well-drilled West Park Leeds side dominated the first half.
They continuously pressured the Wharfedale defence, eventually managing to break through on a few occasions.
The visitors proved their status as league leaders, heading into the break with a significant lead, the half-time score standing at 22-0 in their favour.
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The second half painted a much more positive picture for the home side.
The Wharfedale Ladies came out more structured and visibly gelling together, dramatically shifting the momentum of the game.
They spent the majority of the final thirty-five minutes camped deep in the West Park Leeds end, but they were unable to convert their hard work and superior field position into points.
West Park Leeds, however, managed to sneak in one final score in the 69th minute to close out the game with a 27-0 victory.
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Despite the defeat, the ladies have shown significant promise, particularly with their resilient second-half performance and the integration of talented new players.
They are already looking forward to their rematch but for now the focus is on their next fixture, which is at home against Clitheroe on Sunday, November 9.
Supporters are encouraged to come along to the club and lend their voices to cheer on the team.
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