Supermarine Ladies yesterday confirmed themselves as winners of the RFU Women’s South West 1 League.

In what turned out to be the most difficult playing conditions yet this season, Supermarine once again showed why they have been league leaders all season by beating Avon Ladies 26 – 5.

From the whistle Supermarine were determined to assert their authority early on and despite some very strong tackling by the Avon side, Supermarine managed to secure the bulk of possession and put together some good phases of play. Serious injury to the ruthless flanker Sammy Way’s knee saw Supermarine come back with avengence to score their first try late in the first half, dealt by captain Claire Chard. This was quickly followed by a second try from Claire, which came off the back of the dominating Supermarine scrum.

The second half began in the same highly charged fashion with emotions running high and conditions getting yet more difficult with strong winds and rain. Further strong rucking again saw Supermarine with much of the possession; however the good defence from Avon managed to hold off Supermarine from scoring. Finally flanker Shona Watt was able to break through the Avon defensive line to score a try. Further strong attacking play saw Shona cross the line to score a second.

Avon fought on till the end, and in the final 10 minutes were finally able to open their scoring with a try, closely missing the conversion by hitting the cross bar.

Some exquisite kicking from full-back Natalie Williams saw her convert 3 of the 4 tries.