In round 2 of the 2016/17 Women’s Premiership games, Lichfield entertained last season’s runners up Saracens.
Lichfield Ladies continued an outstanding start to the new season with a hard fought victory over Saracens. Despite going behind in the seventh minute to a converted Chrissy Siczowa try, Lichfield stuck to the game plan and produced a fine display of controlled, disciplined rugby.
On the day Lichfield were outstanding in defence, keeping Saracens out despite periods of intense pressure and always looked threatening in attack. Lichfield scored two first half unconverted tries through England Hooker Amy Cokayne, the first coming from a well worked quick lineout and the second from a well worked break, allowing her to break through Saracens last ditch defence, leaving the home side 10-7 up at half time.
In the second half Lichfield produced an even better performance, denying Saracens time, space and quality possession. Player of the match Hannah Phillips delivered the third Lichfield try after 47 minutes with a break on the right wing. Lichfield full back Charlotte Pearce added the fourth try after 52 minutes, when she found space down the left wing with Hannah Phillips securing the bonus point for Lichfield after 60 minutes, touching down following a powerful driving maul, giving the home side a comfortable 27-7 lead.
Despite being behind Saracens upped their intensity and began to stretch Lichfield Ladies to the limit. Only outstanding defence from Lichfield prevented further scores from Saracens until the 67th minute when Saracens scored through fly half Zoe Harrison. Despite continual Saracens pressure Lichfield held firm for the remainder of the game for the well-deserved 27-14 win.
Lichfield head coach Richard Bennett said ‘firstly this was a fantastic game of rugby and a great advert for the women’s game. Both teams gave 100% throughout, I was particularly pleased with our structure and shape and our composure under continual Saracens pressure. We took all of our opportunities well and our great squad depth allowed us to make changes and keep up the momentum. This has been a great start to the new season, beating last year’s top two teams in our first two games with bonus points from both games, but we are not getting carried away, we still have plenty to work on in the weeks ahead.’
Saracens coach Rob Cain said ‘credit to Lichfield, they played well and deserved the win. We have a young team this year which is still learning and I was pleased with the decision making and execution during the game. Our three debutants all played well and this experience will only improve them as the season progresses. We’ll now go away and regroup for another big game next week’
Lichfield Ladies 27 Saracens Ladies 14
LICHFIELD SCORERS
Tries:- Amy Cokayne(20, 36 mins), Hannah Phillips(47,60 mins), Charlotte Pearce (52 mins)
Conversion :- Amy Cokayne
Player of the match for Lichfield – Hannah Phillips
Report courtesy of Lichfield Ladies
