Olney Girls chalk up a home win

Olney girls won an enthralling home match (6-4) against a well coached combined Bedford and Biggleswade side with all Olney players making a contribution to the win.

Olney started well, with strong tackling and rucking from the entire team notably the front line with Ella, Lottie and Charlie getting stuck in at the breakdown allowing Hattie to supply Jess and Ama for their characteristic strong runs from the middle of the pitch breaking tackles as they pushed on allowing Olney to score two tries. The game ebbed and flowed throughout the first of three 15 minute sessions with Bedford and Biggleswade putting Olney defense under a great deal of pressure ultimately leading to a try from the visitors. Olney came straight back with another try through a powerful run from Ama followed by good support play from Lottie leading to a darting run for the line by Mimi.

The second session carried on similarly to the first with both teams making good line breaks and solid support play, with Olney making the first breakthrough via a run from Jess with Olney pulling further ahead. Bedford and Biggleswade came back strong with two tries of their own made by good team play, accented by good rucking and effective runs from two of their strongest players which coincided with a dip in concentration from Olney. A change in tactics from Olney brought Eva, Mimi and Molly more into the game each making significant meters with their pace. As in each game Mimi's kicking not only relieved pressure but helped score a try with a great kick chase leading to a try from Eva who beat everyone to the ball and score from the restart.

The last session was close, where contributions from Bethany and Holly lead to Olney retaining the ball at the breakdown and some good tackling from all ending with a well contested win from the home team.