Hove Girls U14s inch ahead of Worthing

In a game which started with 2 strong run away tries from Worthing, Hove problem solved, began to put the game plan in place and fought back to get their 19-17 win.

The weather and muddy pitch combined to make the ball slippery and running a real effort, with both sides preferring to give the ball to their big hitters where possible. It was a game of real grit and competition, with the scoreline trading back and forth throughout the game.

Worthing really turned up; carried and tackled hard and made this game one of the tensest battles Hove have had this season. Hove’s scrum was a highlight of the game with the forwards packing down together, gaining dominance and even turning over until it unfortunately had to go uncontested in the latter stages of the second half.

In the forwards, Olivia brought her power on to the pitch in the second half, gaining ground with every carry and giving Hove a platform to attack with; Lily scored two tries for Hove thanks to what is now becoming her trademark carrying with snaked runs full of ferocity; defensively Lottie showed real defiance with some absolutely crucial and impressive tackles. In the backs, Molly’s kicks were the difference in the game and secured the win, her composure under pressure is exceptional and her organisation of the team at fly half, both in open play and off set piece, were a real strength. Mae had an outstanding game at scrum half, really honing her craft now and striking a dangerous balance of snipe or pass which left Worthing scrambling whilst the play had already passed them.

This game was an excellent lesson in resilience and determination, but with this being a game of tiny moments which could have gone either way, there will be more to learn in the coming weeks.