Harlequin Ladies Press Release

Date: Sunday 12^th December 2004

Word Count:  280 (+ 172)

(Harlequin Ladies 5 – Hove 3)

Sunday saw the Harlequin Ladies secure a win in the last play of the game, in their most closely-fought game so far, writes Jo Everett.

After receiving the kick-off, Quins worked their way into Hove’s half, helped along by several penalties conceded by the visitors. Hove fought back hard, challenging for the ball at every breakdown, and testing Harlequins’ defensive line each time they had the ball in hand.

With Hove’s precision in the lineouts, and Harlequin’s hard work in the scrums, both teams were securing good possession, and the evenly-matched game could go either way. When Quins gave away a penalty in their own twenty-two, Hove kicked their way into the lead; a lead they would hold onto, until the final minute of the game.

Throughout the game, the two teams pressured each others’ defence with strong forward runners, pace out-wide and kicks downfield, but the well-organised defence of both sides kept the ball from crossing the line.

As the final whistle approached, Quins worked their way into a good field position, then used the strength of their forward runners to attack the tryline. When Tanya Wilson carried the ball over the line, but was held up, Quins kept up the pressure, pulling in the Hove defence. Quick ball out to the backs, and the pace of fly-half, Amy Gibbons, gave Quins the try they needed in the final seconds of the game. 

With a well-earned Christmas break coming up, the Harlequin Ladies return to their home ground on the 16^th January hoping to build on recent successes as they take on the ladies of  Wimbledon.

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.

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.