Sharks welcomed last season’s Premiership Champions Richmond to the Northern Echo Arena as part of the first Mowden Double Header. Both teams came into the game chasing some much needed points having had relatively disappointing starts to the season.
The first half started with all the ferocity expected with both sides trading heavy blows. It was Sharks who opened the scoring through fly half Katy Mclean through a generous offload from winger Katherine Hobson.
Sharks dominated much of the possession for the next 20 minutes but some indiscipline gave Richmond the opportunity to kick to the corner and their driven lineout was too efficient for Sharks to stop. Richmond’s captain Emma Croker crossed for the score which was converted by Abi Chamberlain.
It was Sharks who struck next when a solid platform at the scrum gave Sharks No. 8 Liz Steele the opportunity to take a quick penalty and dot down under the posts. Mclean added the extras. Richmond responded quickly with some slick hands releasing Kay Wilson down the open side touchline to score out wide. Chamberlain, with an exceptional kick added the extras.
Half time score Sharks 12 – 14 Richmond
Richmond came out of the half time break the brighter with a quick score through No. 8 Alex Matthews converted by Chamberlain.
Sharks responded immediately through hooker Sam Jamieson who took an inch perfect pass from scrum half La Toya Mason to breeze through from short range.
Sharks substitutes made a huge impact on the game and persistent pressure in the Richmond 22m won a penalty which Mclean coolly slotted to take the scores to Sharks 20-21 Richmond.
It was the driven lineout again that was the undoing of Sharks as hooker Emma Croker was at the tail to add a crucial 5 points to the Richmond score, Chamberlain made it 100% from the boot with another excellent kick from out wide.
Despite a having the majority of the possession and opportunities Sharks were not able to add to their tally and the game ended Sharks 20 – 28 Richmond.
Sharks would like to thank the #MowdenFamily for all of their support at what they hope is the first of many Mowden Double Header events!
Sharks will be at home in the Senior Cup on Sunday November 6th KO 2pm v Aylesford Bulls.
Report courtesy of DMP Sharks
