A good crowd turned up to watch as Stanford Ladies took on Thames Ladies for the second time on Saturday, with Stanford looking to avenge a previous defeat at their own ground in the first encounter. This match had a particular significance, as Stanford and Thames have historic links.

Thames took an early lead due to a defensive lapse by the visitors, but Stanford then took control for long periods of the game due to good scrummaging and recycling. Although Thames gained the lead by 15-10 in the closing minutes, Stanford fought back and with good composure and organisation deservedly equalised close to the end of the game.

The big improvement by both sides since their first meeting was obvious, especially the handling, defence, scrums and rucking and although a fiercely competitive match, it was played in a friendly manner. The match ended in a 15-15 draw, with tries from Angela Dennis, Chloe Gounden and Dawn McDonald for Stanford.

Congratulations to both sides on an exciting match to watch, and it is great to see two local Ladies sides establishing themselves.