TWRUFC Ladies 1st XV 31 vs Beckenham 17

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Match Report

Thanet Ladies kicked off at home looking focused and physical from the first whistle. The opposition collected the opening kick, but strong counter-rucking from Sian Boyce and Helen Hollinsworth immediately put Thanet on the front foot. Early handling errors from the visitors, combined with excellent work at the breakdown, allowed Thanet to take control, winning the opening scrum and making early ground through Neave Evans and Georgia Elks.

The first phase of the match was competitive, with penalties exchanged and territory tested. Thanet’s defence held firm, and their work rate was rewarded when a loose ball was picked up by Neave Evans, who ran the length of the pitch to score a brilliant solo try. Alex Whte added the conversion to give Thanet an early lead.

Thanet continued to dominate the set piece, repeatedly winning scrums and carrying strongly through Jo Simovic, Georgia Elks, and the forwards. Ball movement through the backs began to stretch the defence, with Tabs Raymonde, and Shannon Cook all making strong lines. After sustained pressure close to the try line, the ball was moved wide and Shannon Cook finished well to score Thanet’s second try, which Alex White converted.

The pressure continued as Thanet’s rucking and counter-rucking forced turnovers. From one such moment, Tabs Raymonde broke from deep inside the 22 to score an excellent try. Alex White again added the conversion, giving Thanet a commanding lead. The visitors responded just before half time with a converted try of their own.

Thanet began the second half with intent, although an early penalty allowed the visitors some territory. A missed kick to touch was punished when the opposition broke through to score, narrowing the gap to 21–12.

Thanet quickly re-established control. A superb kick from Neave Evans pinned the visitors inside their five-metre area, and from the resulting lineout Thanet’s well-organised maul powered forward, with Helen Hollinsworth grounding the ball for another try. The conversion was missed, but Thanet extended their lead to 26–12.

The game became increasingly physical, with injuries and substitutions affecting the flow. Thanet’s defence remained strong, with standout tackles from Neave Evans, Hollie Callaghan, Maria Castellina, Emily Williams, and Shannon Cook. Despite sustained pressure, the visitors managed another try, making it 26–17.

Thanet closed out the match confidently. Strong carries and quick ball through the backs led to Grace White making a powerful break before the ball was recycled and worked wide. Tabs Raymonde crossed for Thanet’s fifth and final try, sealing a deserved home victory. The conversion narrowly missed.

A dominant home performance built on strong scrummaging, relentless work at the breakdown, and excellent commitment across the pitch.

Players of the Match

• Forwards: Flo Smith, new to adult rugby, playing across several positions and delivering an outstanding performance.
• Backs: Shannon Cook, outstanding lines of running, strong defence, and a well-taken try.

Special mention to debutant Zoe Williams named in the matchday squad and gaining valuable experience on the bench.

Photo: Tina Raven

Tries:

Conversions:

Penalties: None

Drop Goals: None