Chesham Women 26 - 19 Newbury II

A proper battle from the first whistle.

Despite the delayed start to the season, someone forgot to tell the pitch that summer was over. We didn't get quite the soft landing we were hoping for for the first league game of the season!

Newbury II showed exactly why they’ve earned promotion, bringing plenty of pace, physicality and pressure from the off. They certainly didn’t look out of place.

Club stalwart Emma Leek got Chesham on the scoresheet, followed by Elysha Dalton, giving Chesham the early advantage.

But Newbury came out fighting after half-time and Chesham hit a dip in intensity. Three unanswered tries from Newbury put them ahead 19-12 and suddenly Chesham had a decision to make found themselves under immense pressure.

A bit of 'tough love' under the posts and Chesham knew what was needed. Dig deep, find the intensity and fight for it.

The spark came back. Stacey Houston went over for Chesham’s third try, followed by Captain Dee Grammenos with the fourth to put Chesham back in front.

Newbury kept pushing right to the final whistle, but Chesham held firm. The final play saw Chesham win the scrum, and clear the ball and bring home a hard-fought 26-19 win.

Louise Rhys-Davies added three conversions.

And credit to Newbury. Tough women, played hard, but nothing but respect once the final whistle blew. Just a proper competitive game between two teams who clearly love their rugby. Exactly how it should be.

Good luck to Newbury Women II with the rest of their season and we look forward to the rematch!

Try scorers

Emma Leek, Stacey Houston, Elysha Dalton and Dee Grammenos.

Back of the Match

Zoe Duckworth for excellent control of the game and distribution.

Forward of the Match

Clare Bendall for her defensive work and being an absolute menace at the breakdown, turning over countless balls throughout the game.

A hard-fought win at home and another good test for the Stags.