Hove U16 girls Sussex Cup Semi-Final

Sometimes writing a match report is difficult as a game can be less about a score and more about what the sport and spirit of rugby is about. Pulborough came to Hove today on the back of a heavy defeat to Hove in the league and knew they would be facing a squad that has not been beaten in league or cup at home for over two years, but 15 players from Pulborough pulled on a shirt this morning and gave us a game.

From the outset Hove proved a handful and put on a pretty dominant display, in attack quick ruck ball and slick offloading put us over the line 4 times in the first 15 minutes. Pulborough continued to fight hard but some hard carries from our forward pack and ball security along with some strong defensive pressure had Hove in front by 40 points at half time. In the second half, Pulborough had a number of injuries putting them below the numbers required to continue a competitive game. Full respect to Pulborough as with three volunteers from Hove they opted to play the game and continued with a fiercely fought second half with tries scored by both sides.

Clearly the girls were relishing the opportunity to play, with no quarter given against their teammates. The game finished with a solid win for Hove, seeing us in a final with Horsham in a few weeks, but in some ways more importantly 15 girls went home to Pulborough today keeping their love for the game and seeing Hove U16 girls not only as a team that will compete ferociously and play with real skill, but who also embody all the core values of teamwork, respect, enjoyment and sportsmanship. UTH!