Both the 1s and 2s had home games this week with the 1s facing off against Durham and the 2s up against Strathclyde. Despite the poor rain conditions in the morning, the clouds cleared and Peffermill was basking in sun by the time the matches got underway.
First up where the BUCS Champions trying to defend their title in the second league match of the season. Durham have proved themselves strong and dangerous appointments in the past and despite being on home turf, the 1s had to prove now more than ever why they are the ones to beat. Durham wasting no time in putting up a formidable defense, rucking hard and not letting the pressure of the match show. Although scrappy at times Edinburgh played their own game and it wasn't long before Liz Musgrove made a successful break up the wing to put the home side in front. More tries from the Edinburgh backs, including Sarah Law, took the half time score to 29-0. The second half saw both teams settle into the game and Edinburgh put up an outstanding defense including 15 minutes of defending on their own try line and not letting Durham score. When Edinburgh were on the ball, Durham showed the same resilience with quick line speed making it difficult for the home side to move the ball. A couple of epic team tries in the second half took the full time score to 34-5 to Edinburgh. This team is looking stronger than ever and this result with certainty keep the focus on defending the title!
Next it was time for the 2s to step up. With a bunch of new players on the team, it was unclear how they would preform in a match situation against old rivals Strathclyde. The nerves were definitely evident for the ladies in green towards the beginning of the match with several knock on's and off side penalties. However, once they calmed down and played to their structure the skills starting showing as the Strathclyde defense got pushed back further and further. Big hits where coming in from new prop Sarah Donnelly with veteran Rebecca Youngs proving a huge threat for the opposing team.
With Edinburgh now on the ball and looking strong, new center Priscilla Humphries took full advantage of a gap in the defensive line and made a dash for the line. A successful conversion by Anine McKelvey took the score to 7-0 Edinburgh after 15 minutes played. The first half would see another try for Priscilla and one for Annie. With Edinburgh looking for the bonus point, it came down to ex swimmer Raquel to make a break down the wing from Edinburgh's own half to score under the post! Edinburgh managed to keep the Strathcylde side from getting any tries despite two scrums being taken on the five meter line. The second half saw Priscilla get two more tires and Ciorstaidh Galloway drive over the line for her first try of the season.
Final score 41-0 to Edinburgh, a cracking way to start the season and with the potential on display it looks like it's going to be a very exciting future for this team!
