By Annie James
The women’s team concluded their successful season on Saturday competing in the Aldwinians 12’s festival facing teams from across the North of England. All the teams competing were new to the Macclesfield side, so it was fascinating to see how the team adapted quickly to various styles of play that each brought to the games. Aldwinians, Ossett and Huddersfield succumbed to the quick passing and pace that Macclesfield brought in the opening three games.
The fourth match was against Liverpool Collegiate, who will be in Macclesfield NC3 league next season. This was a tight game and Macclesfield were disappointed to lose 10-5. This was the third game on the bounce for the side and fatigue was now setting-in amongst the team, fortunately the arrival of Chloe Newbigging and Hannah Green reinvigorated team spirits!
Pippa Wyer breaking through to score again for Macclesfield
The final group game against Ponteland Tigers was a physical encounter, however Macclesfield held on to win 10 -5 and claim a place in the final. After the conclusion of all the group games Macclesfield found themselves again playing Ponteland in the final, as in the group game it was a tight match and Ponteland looked to have been reinforced with some Collegiate players! Macclesfield created several chances but were unable to convert them, where as the opposition scored from the two opportunities that they created, winning 10 – 0.
It was a phenomenal effort from a small squad, and in very hot conditions to get to the final against teams currently a league above them. At least 6 of the team played 120 minutes of rugby which was an amazing effort, whilst Julia Ashford, Chloe Newbigging and Pip Wyer had all played before, representing Cheshire on Sunday at Durham! A massive squad effort, and special debuts from Emma Lawton and the electric Ria Horsley who scored 4 tries in 4 matches. The team now have a well earned rest until the Macclesfield 7’s
