Despite the final scoreline, Aston came away from their trip to Old Leamingtonians with some positives. Whilst the first half performance can partially be attributed to some of the side (over) celebrating the Men’s team winning the league the previous evening, the way in which they pulled themselves back into the game in the second half was highly creditable.

In the first period the home side used their impressive set of three-quarters to great effect, moving the ball with some speed along the line to generate space to run into where they stretched the Aston defence time and time again.

Despite some heroic Aston defending, Old Leamingtonians ran in 5 tries from deep, 3 of which were converted to establish a 31-0 half time lead. Aston were not helped by receiving 2 yellow cards for high tackles, but this was the outcome of the desperate defence that was required at times, and spectators had a high degree of sympathy for the Aston back 3 who were often faced with a 2-3 player overlap.

However, despite starting the second half a player down, a much improved performance from Aston, with the forwards driving and recycling ball, and starving the home side backs of possession saw Aston grow in confidence.

Old Leamingtonians increased their lead to 36-0 with another try from distance before Aston staged a strong comeback. A series of close driving mauls tested the home side’s defence, but with Aston awarded a 5 yard penalty, scrum-half Grace Harris saw the opportunity for a quick tap, and squeezed herself across the tryline for a well deserved try, which she converted herself.

Aston continued to have advantage in territory and possession and it was no surprise when they scored again – this time Sophie Ferriman ran a hard line close to the posts to cross the try-line following another series of forward surges. Grace Harris again converted to narrow the gap to 36-14, and to leave Aston with the satisfaction of winning the 2nd half 14-5.

Lucy Thewlis was named as Player of the Match for some strong defending as well as yards made with ball in hand.