Sale were the last team to defeat the women’s XV in the league in December, the home side had put together a strong five game winning run and were looking forward to testing themselves against the league’s dominant force, who topped the league. Sale started well and put Macclesfield under considerable pressure. The home side defended well and were well marshalled by captain Mel Bramley. Macclesfield’s set piece was excellent, and backs attempted to break through centres Sophie Barnett and Pip Wyer, however Sales defence was a match to these and any opportunities were quickly snuffed out. Sale finally scored after 20 minutes with the conversion being missed. Sale continued to press in the second quarter of the game and used their athletic runners effectively before spreading the ball wide, resulting in four tries before halftime to leave the score at 29 – 0 to the away side.
The weather in the first half had been atrocious, however in the second half the rain eased and both sides looked to attack. Macclesfield looked to run and kicked cleverly to put Sale under pressure. The lineout and scrum were still functioning effectively giving Macclesfield a good platform to attack, however several injuries forced changes and Macclesfield’s cohesion was affected. Sale scored twice to take the score to 41 points to nil. Despite the score Macclesfield kept competing, Sale had to work hard for their scores, the Macclesfield back row was outstanding as was Julia Parker at hooker. The team continued to defend bravely, but with fatigue now creeping in and the bench empty Sale capitalised to score three more tries to make the score 56 -0 at full time. The team were not dispirited, Sale are an excellent side and have not lost a game in two seasons. The home side now has a break before travelling to play Vagabonds on the Isle of Man, Macclesfield won the first encounter 43 – 27 in an entertaining game, and the team are looking forward to the rematch and staying over for the weekend.
