Saracens vs Sharks Match Report
11/10/09
The Sharks travelled down to London to meet opposition Saracens for game three of the 2009/10 Premiership season.
Following a lengthy haul in 'coach class', the team took to the pitch for a typical short, sharp warm-up. The squad, although weakened by the loss of a few of injured players including fly-half Katy Mclean, had been bolstered by the recruitment of former England U20, Rachel Fraser.
There had been a few positional changes to the squad, however players smoothly slotted into their roles proving that the depth of a squad relies on having a group of versatile rugby players, rather than in specific roles.
From the kick off, the Sharks knew they were up against a well established, experienced and very physical team. Saracens attacked hard and fast right from the onset, but the underdogs fought valiantly, really making the home team work for their first try which only arrived after an extended period of pressure.
A well-organised and well-oiled Saracens forward pack dominated the set piece early on which made it difficult for the Sharks to create any platforms from which to build phases. This truly was a taste of the physical demands of the top flight of Women's rugby...but the Sharks relished the challenge.
At no point during the hard fought game did any one Sharks player give in or let their heads drop. As a truly committed and passionate team, each player worked hard for one another and by the end of the match, understood that as newcomers to this league, each game would be a massive learning curve.
With the knowledge that in order to succeed here, it would be a case of building on each game, the Sharks left London not demoralised but strengthened by the fact that the team had not crumbled under such pressure. A true test of heart and determination.