U13s Minxes take on the Sheffield Swans

Despite a frosty morning it was a pleasure to host six Sheffield Swans on what was a busy morning at Chellaston Academy. Girls playing rugby alongside the boys meant for careful shuffling of pitches.

A tentative start saw Sheffield pass the ball to their biggest player and she sped for the try line. Melbourne were not phased and were soon on the attack in rely with Emily replying in similar fashion making a charge for the line. Alicia had some good carries up the middle of the pitch and Abigial was awesome around the rucks. Sheffield were soon back scoring though when yet again the ball came to the wing and into the hands of the Swan's the big girl again. Melbourne then showed renewed passion and determination once Evie came on from the bench and after a couple of attempts she managed to bring her to ground. Melbourne's hooks at the scrum were securing a lot of ball) and Amy playing at 9 had good hands to off load the ball to allow Emily in to score again. First game 3-3 draw, tries Emily (x2) , Evie.

The second game was all about the restarts as Melbourne had realised they were much better with ball in hand so kept opting to receive the kick; this wasn't helped by Sheffield kicking long but Melbourne cleverly opted for a scrum in the middle of the pitch each time. "Mr Tickle legs" Abigail Watson secured not only their own put in but often hooked Sheffield's ball too. On one such occasion, Amy made good metres with the ball before passing to Olivia who made a darting run up the middle of the pitch only to be tackled short of the line. Melbourne quickly recycled the ball wide for Evie to crash over down the left wing. 5-3 to Melbourne, tries Emily, Evie (x4).

The last game was by far the best as all the Minxes stepped up their game and were not afraid to tackle the strongest runner. Annabelle had worked out that she may not be able to bring her down but she could hang off her to slow her down before her team mates could get there to assist. This worked brilliantly as Sheffield panicked in a ruck and rolled sideways, only for one of the minxes to pick the ball up and run straight for the try line. 4-3 to Melbourne, tries Abigail, Evie (x2), Emily.

Pleasing morning of rugby; anyone of the girls could have scored today due to their commitment and hard work. Training is clearly paying off as the girls are growing in confidence and skill each week - well done all!