A promising start for Beckenham U18 Girls

The U18 age group is a broad one, covering three school years, and Colfes presented a strong challenge after several seasons growing their squad. With nine out of 12 Beckenham girls making their U18 debuts, on a blisteringly hot day, the game started with some trepidation but a good team spirit.

Playing ten-a-side on a full size pitch is a challenge for any age group, and holes in the defensive line were readily exploited by some rapid Colfes runners, who took an early lead and ran in several tries during a shortened first half. Beckenham never gave up and put in a heroic effort, with some brilliant chases and try-saving tackles showing their determination to protect their line.

The second half saw Beckenham develop some structure, sucking in the Colfes pack before stretching the backline wide and seeing Erin run in a great try under the posts, ably converted by Charlie. Sadly this wasn’t enough to redress the deficit, with the final scoreline 50-7 to Colfes.

The forward pack held their own in the set piece, with front rowers Charlie, Em, Jemma and Greta performing well in the scrum, and loose forwards Ella and Lucy H fierce in defence, with strong captainship from Lucy. The new halfback pairing of Kim and Lucy T showed real promise, supported by Madi, Erin and Lucy “Steve” V in the backline, and welcoming Rebecca for her rugby debut. Not the win we wanted, but a great team spirit and attitude, and a very proud coach!