Match Report: Orkney Dragons v Shetland Ladies 11-3-18

Not only did the Orkney Dragons bring back half of the mud from Shetland but they also came home with an emphatic win. A dominating performance for 80 minutes meant a final score line of 22 - 0 in the penultimate game of the league season.

Another cold and miserable day did not dampen the spirits of the Orkney girls as they were determined to get their first win over their close northern rivals. The team sheet had a noticeable difference from previous games with forward Yvonne Barnett getting her first cap as inside centre and proving to be daunting opposition as she powered through Shetlands defence deservedly earning her 'Queen of the Team'.

The game started quickly with Orkney keen to implement their hard work at training and some much-needed confidence given by Scottish internationals Jade Konkel and Helen Nelsons recent visit. Shetland fought hard at the breakdown with impressive work over the ball in the ruck, but it was Orkney who broke the line first through some quick passing out to full back Paige Archibald, who once again showed great pace to run around the wing and under the posts for the first try which was neatly converted by Amy Walker.

Determined Stacey Tualasea battered through the Shetland defensive line to continually make ground and over the line was Charlene Nicol for the second try of the day.

After some stern words from the ref and a yellow card Orkney were down a player in the scrums. As a bog formed under foot Shetland contested well and made ground but Orkney once again showed strong character and fitness to pile on pressure and force handling errors from the opposition.

The second half strained Orkney as extremities became increasingly difficult to feel leading to some clumsy, uncharacteristic errors and Shetland pushed up field. Injuries in the squad meant some promising new faces debuted for Shetland adding fresh legs to the squad.

After some tired tackles, Orkney were finally back to full complement and on the attack again with Sara Duffy scoring two tries in quick succession.

Tough conditions resulted in scattering injuries throughout and forced substitutions but this only led to an injection of pace in the Dragons side with a first cap for Amy King.

Many thanks to our wonderful sponsors and coaches, especially Connor Hancock on his first away game, travelling support and Shetland for their hospitality.

C.D.