Sun 13 Oct 2024
Launceston Ladies made it 3 wins from 3 on Sunday but not without a thrilling
contest from a fast paced Crediton outfit. The Cabettes had been looking forward to
a competitive fixture, to which Crediton always brings, and after enduring a nervy
end, Launceston held on to prevail 25-22.
Launceston knew they needed to come out of the changing rooms firing and get the
scoreboard ticking early. After gaining early territory, Launceston had a scrum deep
into the Crediton 22. A strong shove from the pack opened up the blindside, giving
space for Rachel Hicks and the easiest of first scores. Conversion was short
The Cabettes found their rhythm early and after putting together their phase plays,
Holly Williams was able to take full advantage of the unorganised defence and score
through the middle. Conversion was wide.
It was Creditons turn to show off their attacking ability as they ventured deep into
Launceston territory, but a turnover and a booming 50m kick from Williams relieved
the pressure. A knock on from Crediton’s retreating winger set up perfect field
position for Launceston to launch an attack. The Cabettes, brimming with
confidence, worked the ball to Hicks for a one on one with her opposite number. A
shimmy of the hips and she was away down the touchline and in for her second.
Conversion missed.
It looked like it could be another high scoring victory for Launceston at this point but
the game was turned on its head as, against the run of play, Crediton unleashed
their speed demons in the back three with a well worked move from scrum. Their
winger ran it in from 40m. Conversion missed
Launceston seemed in a state of shell shock as the rest of the half was all Crediton.
They piled on the pressure and showed Launceston what it takes to be competitive
at this level, winning breakdowns and keeping the ball. While Launceston’s defence
was stout with huge defensive efforts from all, eventually a crack appeared to which
the lightning Crediton full back took advantage. Conversion missed.
HT: 15-10
The second half began as an arm wrestle as both teams knew the next score was
vital. Bodies were put to the test as the tackles flew in and the hard runs became
harder. Emily Kneale, who was proving to be a destructive force from number 8, fell
victim to the intensity as she was helped from the field with an ankle injury. A subtle
sigh of relief from some of the Crediton contingent.
Launceston pressed on in search of that next score. Up steps Kim Upcott, whose
hard storming runs and scrummaging continuously put Launceston on the front foot
all game, rewarded herself with a score of her own. Conversion missed.
Crediton though were not about to roll over and almost immediately hit back with a
score of their own through their impressive full back. Conversion missed.
The game once more finely balanced heading into the final 10 minutes. A
competitive game Launceston had been craving for, they looked to find a way to
close it out as victors against a Crediton side with more than enough ability to deny
them. Once more Upcott produced another powerful run with Crediton players
hanging off her boot laces to stop her. Falling just short, Joey Bartlett was on hand to
finish the job and dot down for an all important score.
Into the final few minutes, Crediton were in possession after an upset and
Launceston defended their lead with all they had left. After drawing in the
Launceston defence, the nightmare sight of the Crediton full back in space with ball
in hand became all too real when she dotted down under the posts for her hattrick.
The good conversion added to the tension in the last moments of the game.
Crediton had one final shot at snatching victory and made it much further into the
Launceston half than was comfortable but the Cabettes made the turnover and got
that ball off the pitch to seal the win.
FT: 25-22
Launceston will be thankful for this tightly contested game and proud to get the
victory after digging so deep to see out the game. No let up though for The Cabettes
as next week they travel to Penryn for the Cornish Derby.
Sponsors Player of the Match: Kim Upcott
Forward of the Match: Megan Arnold
Back of the Match: Madi Vine
Report by: Dan Pearce
