OURFC W Blues Match Report v Bath

Final Score: Oxford 24 - 17 Bath

In a thrilling encounter last Wednesday, the Oxford Women*s Blues took on the University of Bath Women*s Rugby team, who, after their league migration, were keen to make a statement. 

From the get-go, Oxford dominated the first half, but despite several promising tries being held up—thank you, Bath’s stubborn defence—spirits remained high. Chloe Hawley, our Back of the Match, danced through defenders with some beautiful line breaks, and Captain Alex Wilkinson showed the team how to finally put the ball down over the line after yet another held-up try. Lucy McBride then joined the try scorers, putting Oxford 10 points ahead, and making Bath doubt they had it in them to keep resisting our relentless efforts.

Pack-leader, Tolu Duckworth, continued the attacking effort with another stunning break only to have her dreams dashed by a disappointing "short" call from the referee as she dove with the ball at the try line. Post-match debate has been fierce, with Steve Karpa's brilliant photographic evidence being called to the stand. 

As the first half drew to a close, Bath’s number 10 pulled a fast one, intercepting a pass and sprinting for the try line with five dark blues in hot pursuit. With the Blues supporters’ hearts in throats and probably a few misplaced snacks flying, the scoreboard read 10-7.

Not to be outdone, Sophie "Badman" Goodman decided to show Bath how it's really done with a spectacular interception that she carried over the line on the half-time whistle as if Bath had never shown up. The roar from Iffley Road, led by OURFC's ultimate fan and employee of the week, Zed Nott, could probably be heard in Bath itself. Half-time score: 17-7.

The second half kicked off with more of Oxford’s beautiful team play, culminating in another try from Chloe Hawley. Mel Morley added on the points, sending Bath’s dreams of a comeback spiralling as beautifully as her kick.

It wasn’t over yet, Bath rallied, with their number 2 diving in between the posts and another try from their number 12 making it a nail-biting 24-17. With minutes to go and Bath knocking on the door, their hopes seemed bright until Oxford’s defence unleashed their inner fortress. A forward pass on the way to the try line from Bath under pressure sealed Oxford’s victory as the final whistle was blown.

The Blues emerged victorious, ready to take on both teams from the other place this Wednesday.

Here’s to more wins, less held up tries, and an epic season ahead! 💙💙

Full Match album available here courtesy of Steve Karpa