(Chesham Ladies 31 - Harlequin Ladies 7)

The Harlequin Ladies faced Chesham in their first friendly of the season, coming away with a 31-7 defeat, but nothing to be ashamed of, writes Jo Everett.

With several players trying out new positions and two ladies making their debut in rugby union, it took time for Harlequins to settle into the game. Chesham made the made the most of this, keeping Quins camped in their own twenty-two. When Chesham made an interception, they were through to open the scoring. Chesham kept up the pressure and a second try soon followed when Quins conceded a penalty for holding on.

Harlequins sharpened their focus, and began to make a stronger challenge in the breakdowns and return some of the pressure. With improved ball retention, Quins were now able to work their way into Chesham's half. It was second-row, Chevonne Rennison, who made a great run from the twenty-two, holding off two defenders, before touching the ball down. Kate Sinfield, at full-back, followed with the conversion.

A further Chesham try was to follow before an early half-time, brought about when newcomer, Ellie Mytton, was left with a broken ankle after a crunching tackle when scooping up loose ball.

The second-half opened with a strong chase by Quins from their kick-off, once again putting some pressure on the home team. However, with no substitute’s available and scorching temperatures, Harlequins began to tire. When Chesham had possession, they made good use of the resulting gaps to add a further two tries to their scoreline.

Harlequins were far from disappointed with the result, as the team had put in a good performance in a challenging but good-natured game.  Particular congratulations to all those playing so well in their debut for the Harlequin Ladies.

Club News: Summer Round-Up

As usual, it has been a busy and successful summer for the Ladies team. Many of our players enjoyed great success at the various, elite training camps, with Danni Knight, Laura Coy and Saskia Brazier-Kobus all making the England Under-19 squad. All three players are heading off to university this month and their talents will be greatly missed in the senior side.

Forwards, Laura Quinn and Sarah Trundle were both invited to the Under-18 Performance Camp held in Loughborough, and senior players Alex Burbidge and Chevonne Rennison both attended the Performance Development Academy; coached by last season's 1st XV captain, Sam Marshall.

Many players kept up their skills and fitness playing summer touch rugby and rugby league. Other activities, ranging from the Flora Lite Challenge and the Race for Life to parachute-jumping in Quins kit, raised a large amount of money for various charities.

There was just a little time left for socialising, with attendance at the Middlesex and Compass Sevens, Richard Langhorn Trust Ball, Quinssa Picnic and even a spot of modelling at the Season Ticket Holders Barbecue.

A great summer for all, and now a great season to look forward to under the new captaincy of number 8, Vicky Gallagher, and in the new league, Division 1 South-East.

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 1st 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 6pm 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 .

Come and Meet Us

The Ladies have a display board at every home game, so do come up and say hello.  For further press opportunities or more information about the Harlequin Ladies, please contact Jo Everett - Press and PR Secretary at quinsladies@hotmail.com .