It was perhaps the most close-fought game of the season as the Harlequin Ladies held Ipswich to a five-all draw at home on Sunday, writes Jo Everett.

From kick-off, Harlequins quickly worked their way into the Ipswich half, putting the visitors under pressure from the start. However, an equally determined Ipswich, tested the Quins defence whenever possession was turned over.

Quins were able to keep play deep in Ipswich territory for much of the first half, and came close to scoring several times. The Ipswich defence held strong, although their attempts to slow down the ball at the breakdowns cost them many penalties precariously close to the their try line.

It was early in the second half, when Ipswich made a break out wide to score their try. Harlequins did not let their heads go down, but played a patient game. They made the most of penalty kicks to keep Ipswich in their own half, and with minutes remaining, their patience paid off. Having been held up over the line already, captain Vicky Gallagher crashed through to touch the ball down for Quins. The final minutes saw further pressure from Quins, who once again forced Ipswich back into their own twenty-two, but the clock was against them, leaving a final score of five-all.

Although, very much in need of a win, The Harlequin Ladies have much to be proud of in Sunday’s performance. The challenge now, will be to maintain this form as they face yet another long gap between league fixtures.

Want to Play Rugby for Harlequins?

Harlequin Ladies are always on the lookout for new players.  Whether an old-hand or a complete novice, we look forward to hearing from you.  The Harlequin Ladies train on Tuesday and Thursday nights from 7.30pm to 9pm on the training pitch behind the 1^st XV pitch at The Stoop and matches are played on Sunday.  For younger players, the U16 and U18 Academy Squads train on Thursday nights from 6.30pm till 7.30pm at the same venue.

Want to Get More Involved?

We are also on the lookout for new sponsors to continue our season and can offer your company or brand various sponsorship opportunities from Match to total Club Sponsor packages.  For more information, please contact Claire Melvin – Sponsorship & Fundraising Secretary at quinsladies@hotmail.com.

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