Henley Hawks 0, Thurrock T-Birds 25

THURROCK T-Birds continued the winning streak in the Women's Championship South with this win at Henley today (Sunday, 15 December).

Try scorers were Niketa Akintade (2), India Harvey (2) and Lizell Heather.

Thurrock knew they needed a bonus point in the last game before the Christmas break and though they left it late, they succeeded.

Thurrock took their time and were methodical and controlled in attack, looking after the ball, and playing with patience.

Henley tested the Thurrock defence but T-Birds' try line remained impenetrable.

Captain India Harvey led by example, creating opportunities for herself and others out of nothing, but it was her sister Scarlett who was voted player of the match for her work in the scrum and her carries in attack.

T-Birds now sit two points behind Blackheath with three games to play in the new year.

Coach Andy Yarrow said: "Today was a good team performance! The girls showed composure as they looked to attack.

"Niketa and India looked like a threat every time they had the ball in their hands.

"The Christmas break probably comes at the wrong time for us as we are in fantastic form.

"The defensive displays as of late have been brilliant. I am a big believer that defence can win games, hopefully it can win championships too.

"With seven minutes left we needed one more try for the bonus point, one player said these are the minutes that win championships.

"The bonus point leaves us on Blackheath's heels, it will be an exciting 2020."