DONCASTER DEMONS WOMEN 2ND XV 66
LINCOLN LADIES 2ND XV 19
WOMEN’S NC 3 NORTH (SOUTH)
BY JOSEPH VERNEY AND HEV LAMMING
PHOTO CREDIT: EMMA O’ROURKE

The score did not tell the fully story as Lincoln’s 2nd showed great character and determination in a 66-19 defeat at Doncaster Demons.

Alice Ward grabbed a brace of tries and Lucy Weekes scored one, while Lily Lamplugh successfully slotted over two conversions.

It was only the team’s third ever game of league rugby together and the resilience they showed to battle through injuries and unavailability was fantastic. Two players were unavailable because they were called up to the 1st XV, which highlights the great development of the second team.

Lincoln opened the scoring with a lovely back line move put Ward over for an unconverted try before Doncaster responded to level the score.

After some back and forth, another good backs move put Ward over for her second try, which Lamplugh converted to put Lincoln back in front.

The remainder of the first half was a hard-fought battle in the midfield with neither team gaining much ground or able to break through.

Lincoln lost a player to a head injury and, despite Doncaster matching their numbers, the hosts were able to score three more tries to take a 22-12 lead in at the break.


The beginning of the second half saw another head injury. Due to the two losses of impactful players, Lincoln were unable to capitalise on the success of their first-half performance.

The game got away from Lincoln, especially with no substitutes and with tiredness setting in.

Lincoln, however, were defiant and their hard work, determination and attitude paid of in the last quarter of the game. Great work by the forwards set up Weekes to run straight through a gap beside an unprotected ruck.

Lamplugh added the extras to give Lincoln their highest points tally in a league match to date.

Doncaster finished the second half strongly to ensure victory, but Lincoln should be very proud of their performance in the circumstances.

POST MATCH COMMENT

After the match Lincoln Ladies 2nd XV coach Hev Lamming said: “Overall, it was a much improved performance from Lincoln despite the score.

“There are many positives to be proud of - plenty of go forward, our defence was initially stronger, applying pressure, the ladies handling has improved, and our back line is looking menacing in attack.

“I’m very pleased with the progress this team is making. Such a different team since the beginning of the season and we're not halfway through the season yet.

“Plenty to work on but so much to be positive about as we approach the second half of the season.

“The biggest attribute this team has is their attitude and team spirit. They never give up.”