Enniskillen Women 17 Queen's university, Belfast 0
Enniskillen Women began their league campaign with a hard-fought 17-0 victory away to Queen’s University, Belfast.
Travelling with five debutants, including former U18 players Olivia Black and Amanda Farrell, the team showed promise despite some early rustiness.
Skins initially struggled to find their rhythm, with several final passes going astray.
However, strong running from Amanda Farrell, Olivia Black, and Kelly Quinn pushed them deep into Queen’s territory.
Captain Dolores Hughes then orchestrated slick handling in the backline, allowing Zara Flack to race over for the opening try. Sophie Meeke’s conversion attempt was pushed wide by the wind.
Queen’s fought back, but Skins’ defence, led by Kelly Beacom, Moya Hill, and Farrah Cartin-McCloskey, stood firm with heroic tackles.
A turnover by Sarah Adams allowed Hughes to slice through the Queen’s defence, and just before halftime, a well-worked team move sent Karla Wiggins over for a second try, making it 10-0.
Skins entered the second-half with renewed energy.
A strong run by Chloe Moore set the platform for Sarah Teague to crash over for a try, converted by Meeke, extending the lead to 17-0.
Queen’s enjoyed more possession, but Skins’ defence, particularly from Cartin-McCloskey, held strong.
Debutants Sarah Hamilton and Nikki Kernaghan made an immediate impact off the bench, contributing with ball carries and tackles.
Late in the game, Olivia Black’s turnover led to a break by Dearbhla Dillion, but a potential fourth try was ruled out due to a knock-on.
Enniskillen left Belfast with a solid opening win. Their next match is at home against Dungannon on Sunday, October 6.
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