There were celebrations as Newark Rugby Club’s women’s team secured a momentous win with a 22-19 victory over Amber Valley in the Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire and Derbyshire plate semi-final.
“What a match it was,” said Newark captain Emilie Rathbone.
“From the first whistle the team went straight to work receiving the kick-off and charging back at the opposition.
“We connected well early on and kept the ball in hand with forwards and backs linking up.
“However, a few scrappy tackles and some direct running from Amber Valley led to their first try.
“Frustrated by letting in an early try we got back in the game quickly from the restart and played some good flowing rugby in their half.
“We used the boot to gain territory and the forwards pod work was excellent, resulting in a try by the team.”
Newark scored another and went into half-time up 10-7.
Amber Valley came out firing and scored a try as they slipped through the middle to go up 12-10.
Newark’s forward’s powered towards the try line gaining ground before Newark scored again and with a successful conversion went up 17-12 as the retook the lead.
“With five minutes to go, Newark lost a little concentration, slipped a few tackles and Amber Valley found the try line to make it 19-17 to the visitors,” said Rathbone.
“However Newark did not lose heart with two minutes to play, we kicked off quickly, regathered the ball and cantered to the try line.
“The opposition made a few last-ditch tackles, but we recycled the ball in amongst the forwards and were finally rewarded to take the game to the final score of 22-19.
“It was a massive team performance by everyone; taking the confidence and skills we have been learning through the previous matches and applying it in the semi-final showed the difference.
“The result gave us a total belief in ourselves, and those around us.
“Thanks to our coaching team and supporters for cheering us on.”
