The Gosford U16 Girls were keen to get back into competitive rugby and this time took on a tough ATL side in their next Bucks Invitational League match. Both teams played exceptionally well showing skill, and determination, making for an exciting game.

First Half

The game started with ATL winning a lineout deep in Gosford’s territory, but Gosford responded with strong rucking to turn over possession. The early exchanges were evenly matched, with both teams trading possession. Gosford’s first breakthrough came off the back of a well-executed scrum. The ball was quickly moved through the hands of Bella, Lola, and finally to Lucie, who crossed the line for the opening try with Immy making the conversion 0-7.

ATL responded well, applying significant pressure and keeping Gosford pinned in their half. Despite strong defence, ATL managed to capitalize on a turnover to score and with a successfully conversion the score was levelled at 7-7.

From the restart, Gosford looked to regain momentum. A strong carry from Emilia set the team with a strong field position with Eve making even more ground. Despite continued progress through Monica and Bella, the ATL defence held forcing another turnover. A period of back-and-forth play saw both teams exchanging possession before Gosford won a penalty near the try line. Taking a quick tap, Lily managed to get over the line for Gosford's second try (7-12).

Shortly after the restart on the back of a well worked series of passes, Monica found space on the wing to score (7-17). Gosford continued to build on their lead with Bella breaking through the defence for a solo try which was converted by Immy (7-24).

Just before halftime, ATL countered with a strong attack, getting past two defenders before crossing the line and a successful conversion bringing an end to the first half (14-24).

Second Half

Gosford restarted confidently, with a deep kick putting pressure on early, but ATL fought back with the Gosford defensive line working hard to contain ATL's big ball carriers. Monica capitalised on a loose ball to score her second try of the game (14-29).

ATL never stopped pushing and through an excellent phase of play that saw them drive towards the Gosford line for another try (19-29).

ATL kept on pushing the Gosford defence, but a penalty returned possession to Gosford with Eve making a great run before finally getting caught, luckily she was able to offload to Monica who once again crossed the line scoring her third try (19-34)

Gosford hit back immediately from the restart, Elena and Sophie combined to steal possession, and Lola made a decisive run before offloading to Immy, who finished with a try (19-39).

ATL went through a good period of possession before showing great handling skills to score another try with a successful conversion (26-39)

With just minutes left in the match, Gosford continued to apply pressure. Lucie ran a fantastic support line before receiving the ball and breaking through two tackles to score (26-44), sealing the win and closing the match.

Final Score: ATL 26 - Gosford 44

Gosford will take great confidence from this result as they look ahead to their next fixture. Well played to both teams for an exciting and competitive match!

Congratulations to Clemmy for winning Player of the Match in her first game.

Tries:
Lucie x 2
Lily x 1
Monica x 3
Bella x 1
Immy x 1

Conversions:
Immy x 2