The pre-rumble rumble in Reading

After 8 long weeks the wait was over. The first game had arrived. The hard work was done. The team was ready, and the bus stocked with (gluten free) baked goods.

The women travelled to Reading for an exciting pre season fixture against a seasoned NC1 team. The perfect test for a rebuilding Hove.

The game started strong with Hove's newly structure defence coming good with some outstanding line speed. Elisha 'the jackal' Simmons showing once again that she will put her head where you wouldn't put a crowbar, with a series of brilliant steals. All leading to the bionic neck, Sadie, storming through with the trademark hand of god handoff to cross the whitewash giving Hove a 5-0 lead at the end of the first 3rd.

The second 3rd continued to show Hove's strong defence with some clinical tackling from debutant Bella and the re-debuting Laura. Keen to get back into the action after 10 minute power nap, Voicey decided to remind everyone how not to throw a lineout as she somehow chucked it backwards.

As the rain started to fall in the final 3rd, Hove began to get some much needed go forward with some strong forward carries. And some slick passing through the backs put the ball in the hand of university bound Bea who finished off an excellent passage to score for Hove. A late Reading try through some good spotting of space brought the score to 10-5 but Hove held firm for the win.

10 debuts, a win on the road and a great fixture. Thanks to Reading Kites for hosting and we look forward to returning the favour next season. Good luck with the season!

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