WOMEN’S CHAMPIONSHIP SOUTH WEST TWO

Henley Hawks Ladies 24 Launceston Ladies 7

LAUNCESTON’S longest away trip of the season ended in defeat on Sunday as Berkshire-based Henley Hawks ran out 24-7 winners at Dry Leas.

A 7am start and five-and-a-half-hour journey may not have helped to begin with as Henley took just six minutes to open the scoring.

The Cabettes though soon came to life and they had to as the Hawks held on to the ball and camped in Launceston’s half for almost the entirety of the half.

Henley could have run away with the game but for some outstanding defence. Up front shots from the forwards, hold ups over the line and some incredible last-ditch tackling from full-back Grace Tucker kept the Cornish side in the contest.

But on the 34th minute all that pressure finally took its toll as Henley dotted down for a converted score.

The Cabettes eventually got some possession going and showed what they can do as strong running from captain Kim Upcott and weaving runs from Meg Tucker and Amy Warman created quick ball to put Launceston deep into the home 22. Alex Hutchings rewarded the good play by diving over the line. Caitlyn Hancock added the extras for 12-7.

Henley started the second half as they did the first, and two quick scores either side of the 50th minute took the game away.

Both teams attacked and defended ferociously from there on, albeit with no further score, as Launceston turn their attention to Sunday’s home date with Bath at Polson Bridge.

LAUNCESTON LADIES: Grace Tucker; Jenna Cowling, Madi Vine, Poppy Jennings, Katie Murrin; Meg Tucker, Amy Warman; Jess Harrison, Jenna Arnold, Kim Upcott (capt); Megan Arnold, Rhiannon Thomas; Abigail Matthews, Caitlyn Hancock, Alex Hutchings. Replacements: Ann-Marie Risdon, Charlotte Belsey, Josie Ninnis, Vicki Doidge, Nicole Rowland, Suz Franks, El Trezise.

Tries: Hutchings; Convs: Hancock; Pens: N/A.

Players-of-the-match: Forward – Abigail Matthews; Back – Grace Tucker.