RUGBY Lionesses came out on top against Old Leamingtonians Ladies on Sunday, as the two clubs kicked off their pre-season preparations.
A 31-0 victory at Webb Ellis Road in favour of the hosts gives the Lionesses the upper hand, albeit just a friendly, ahead of two further clashes in the league this season – when the two go toe-to-toe in NC 1 West.
In a match played in three 20-minute periods, OLs welcomed nine new players to the squad, with six in the starting XV, as the visitors enjoyed a sustained spell of early pressure in the opening ten minutes.
But after a dropped ball, the Lionesses raced down the other end into Old Leams’ half, eventually forcing an uncontested scrum and going ahead three minutes before the end of the first period.
Old Leamingtonians again had the upper hand during the start of the second period, with Steph Morton stopped from completing a promising run down the wing, while OLs made their presence felt at Rugby’s lineouts.
Despite demonstrating some of their key strengths, Rugby again broke away after a turnover to score a second try of the game.
The score prompted two further tries, with one converted, to extend the Lionesses’ advantage further.
In the third quarter, Rugby this time had the stronger start to continue the momentum built in the second period – scoring their fifth of the match.
OLs were forced into being patient and waiting for a chance for a break to arise, but were unable to make their turnovers count as Rugby held firm for a shut-out.
