written in conjunction with Emma Richards and Emily Carrington

 

Porthcawl 17 - Haverfordwest 35

 
Try scorers: Niamh Mathias 2, Rhian Swift, Emily Carrington, Tati Richards
Conversions: Elin Williams 5
 
Sunday 16th February saw the Blues Ladies travelling to Porthcawl in a league fixture, where they celebrated their first win of the season.
 
With a delayed kick off due to referee issues the Blues were caught cold and conceded early after a strong start from Porthcawl. 
 
Haverfordwest reacted well and with their pack going really well and backs eager to run the ball they showed their dominance as they responded with four tries in the first half to lead 28-7.
 
Rhian Swift’s solo effort to open the scoring for the Blues was a highlight, with her footwork and raw pace very much in evidence. Following that, Emily Carrington scored from a training-park move, with a solid carry breaching the defence to go over under the posts.
 
Prop Sarah Lawrence's strong carries and big tackles provided a solid foundation for the team's performance with the whole pack working hard to give the backs clean, quick ball.
 
Centre Niamh Mathias made a significant impact in midfield, running hard lines and breaking numerous tackles to add a further two tries to the tally to ensure a healthy lead going into half time, with flyhalf Elin Williams playing a crucial role, controlling the backline as well as converting the extra points to all four tries.
 

Blues stay strong in a hard-fought second half

 
In the second half, the Blues enjoyed large periods of possession and territory, with Tati Richards deservedly getting on the score sheet, beating several defenders on the outside after some superb build-up play in midfield with Elin Williams again slotting the extras. Even with late pressure from the Blues, Porthcawl didn't give up and managed to score two break-away tries at the death.
 
Despite losing key player, Aimee Ridley in the first half, the team delivered a solid performance, maintaining composure with each player’s contribution vital in securing the win to the final score 35-17, showcasing a great performance overall. 
 
If anyone is interested in joining the Blues, they train on Thursday evenings from 6-7pm on Haverfordwest High School’s 3G pitch. Everyone is welcome, with no experience necessary. 
 
Haverfordwest Squad:
Aimee Ridley, Becky Osborne, Bethan Jones, Christine Selby, Claire Lawrence, Dotty Van Doorn, Elin Williams. Elise Christopher, Emily Carrington, Emma Busch, Emma Summons, Fleur Munday, Hannah Hurton, Nadia Viggers, Niamh Mathias, Rhian Swift, Sarah Lawrence, Tati Richards.
Forward of Match- Emily Carrington
Back of Match - Niamh Mathias
 
Porthcawl squad:
Ilish Forestor, Nichola Norman, Jenna Abuleil,  Xez Mellor, Lauren Jenkins, Tonie Smith-Marke, Raz Morgan, Olivia Onwochei, Paisley Price, Izzy Evans, Steph Johnstone, Lauren Aitken, Maddie Hines, Aimee Evans, Linzi Morgan, Lauren Read (permit), Tia Parobij, Niamh Chapman (permit), Mel Burge-Davies, Ellie Battledore (permit), Olivia Williams.
 
Tries:
Izzy Evans, Raz Morgan, Linzi Morgan
Con:
Raz Morgan
Forward of Match: Raz Morgan
Back of Match: Linzi Morgan