01/11/2026
🌹Match Report🌹
Yesterday saw the Roses travel across to a sunny but cold and blustery west coast, to take on Workington Finches in their first ever meeting. Workington, a very strong outfit, last season were playing in the league above; Roses knew it would be a very tough day. With only three players on the bench, some returning players and players still new to the game, this did not get them down. They knew this game would be their biggest test, and every player would have to put in a shift. With a brilliant crowd and the match being live streamed on YouTube, the contest got underway. The Roses struck first shortly after the whistle with some great handling through the team and out wide for Nicole Marsh to run up the wing and score under the posts. This helped calm the Roses and they were able to settle into the game. In the first half the teams were very even; Workington were strong going forward through the middle and had some excellent kicks for touch. The Roses were firm and were able to stem their attacks. The Roses were soon on the front foot again and in the last 15 minutes of the half ran in three more tries from the inform Nicole Marsh. With the usual kickers for the Roses unable to play, Lucy Surrey, Clare Gibson and Francesca Smith stepped up and had a go. With the challenging conditions, only Lucy was able to convert her effort. Both teams were happy to hear the half time whistle.
A little shell shocked, Workington used the break to regroup, reorganise and come out strong in the second half. Workington were on the attack. They kept the Roses in their half for the rest of the game. Workington's effort and persistence were rewarded with two quick tries 20 minutes into the second half. The Roses had to knuckle down before Workington could progress on the momentum they were building. The Roses had to battle hard, their defensive strength and steadfastness were absolutely outstanding. The Roses Captain Caitlin McVeigh had a brilliant game, demonstrating her great tackling ability and determination in the ruck. And Fly Half Lauren Calvert using her experience and organisation to help keep the Roses in the game. The relief and joy at the final whistle was palpable from the Roses. What a performance, an absolutely incredible win. Commiserations to Workington who fought admirably. In the end they just ran out of time, the four tries for Nicole Marsh and Lucy's conversion were too much to chase down. Get in Roses!
Our next match is Sunday 8th November against Houghton at home. Come and support the roses.
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