Castleford RUFC Girls U13s had their first game of the season today at home to Sandal RUFC Girls and what an exciting match it was, too, with the winning try being scored by the home team as the clock ran down.
Thanks for the sportsmanship of Sandal who lent a player throughout to ensure that everyone got as much game time as possible in a 9 a side game.
For the bulk of the Cas team it was their very first game of rugby but it did not show – throughout the team they harried and tackled the visitors who were a constant threat and were more practised and adept at rucking. The Cas girls did not let this put them off their stride and they pressed forward from the off. The support play improved as they got into the game and their first try came after some good work and ground covered by Lilly Platt took them deep into the visitors’ half. Some good defence from Sandal kept the home side out but a good run from Dina Santos took the ball forward and after better rucking followed by a good few yards’ advance by Alicja Kadziak and then Millie Stocks, Jenny Sutcliffe was able to finally find a gap to get over the line.
All the girls were involved in the game and they combined well with Daisy and Lilly Platt trying their best to link the attacks, as well as leading the defensive line, inspiring the others. Alicja was a constant threat, driving forward at every opportunity and was rewarded with her first try after a typically determined run took her through a number of challenges. Georgia Thorpe adapted well to hooker but also showed how she could combine with others as she and Millie kept taking the ball forward whenever they got it.
Sandal made the best of a good strike in the scrum and they moved the ball wide before scoring just before half time.
All the girls maintained their first half focus in very warm conditions and the second half began in the same vein until Dina proved what a handful she will be to opposing defences with a forceful run down the left wing to dot down. Sandal rallied and two tries followed as they continued to move the ball around their backs. The Cas girls didn’t give up and they defended doggedly with Abi Teece and Jenny prominent in their support of the irrepressible Daisy and Lilly. As Sandal pressed near the Cas line some good tackling and quick thinking led to the ball being fed to Dina who without hesitation spotted a gap and ran almost the length of the field with Sandal defenders just failing to catch her before she scored her second try in the corner.
It was a thoroughly entertaining match and all associated with the team were struck by the energy, enthusiasm and skill displayed. There are things to work on in training but it was a very good start to the season. Well done girls.