Sun 2 Dec 2018
Captains Foreword
By Sam Akerman
Every game I always mention how proud I am of these ladies, this week is no exception! We knew before the game that we only had 15 players and with last minute venue changes we still managed to hold our heads and get stuck straight into the game! The hard work in training is really paying off and you wouldn't have guessed that some of our more experienced players were missing, with great structure in defence and attack, trying new things and providing options made it a really enjoyable game to play.
What's really exciting for me is that we aren't just relying on a few players now... we are a great squad that's interchangeable and I can't wait to see where that goes!
Thank you to everyone that came to support and encouraged us - we really appreciate it. I am so excited for the next game!
After a great winning performance a few weeks ago, the High Wycombe Belles were all fired up and ready to take on Harlequins III
By Luke Schembri Burch
Sadly and beyond anybodies control most people went to the wrong venue so the game was late kicking off. Great things come to those that wait...a little longer in the cold... so after a little delay both teams were all ready to go. The mighty Belles kicked off and were straight up in Harlequin's faces forcing them to put the ball down on their try line. Our fantastic front row ladies contested for the ball however the cheeky Quins took the ball and slipped through our defence (5-0).
With us trailing, the ladies realised that enough was enough and were determined to show the home crowd what we could do! With great set play we were now 5 metres out and Lisa went for the try, however she was unsuccessful (try as she might) due to questionably high tackle. With a sense of injustice looming the Belles won the ball back and went again - this time Evie King led the charge making sure we scored! (5-5)
Being so close to half time both teams were determined to go into the break in the lead and with slippy conditions the nimble footed Quins were able to do just that with another try and a penalty kick. (13-5)
After the break, The Belles got straight back into it, especially Elsbeth 'hard Rock - but less minty' Pearman and Amy Lopez who were later taken off due to injuries. Hope you both have a speedy recovery ladies!
This was not the news we wanted, as it took us down to playing the game with 13 and the pesky Quins took that advantage, scoring again (18-5).
More bad injury news, the warrior Belle came off and the High Wycombe Belles ended the game with 12 players. We never gave up, we dug deep and still gave them what for until the match was called....with 10 minutes to go!
In that last minute we saw rampaging effort from the whole team 'that were still stood standing' and to kick a full team when they are up, Lee added a try to the final score (18-10).
We feel that in a perfect storm things may have been different...well guess what ladies we ain't done yet - home leg match to follow.
You all worked together, as a team, and were a pleasure to watch! Roll on to our next game! Many thanks to all that travelled and dealt with hospital trips (Mrs and Mr King)!
