CREDITON RFC WOMEN XV 26-19 PAIGNTON

CREDITON Women travelled to Paignton with a full squad and bench for their first-ever fixture against Paignton Ladies.

Having recently been promoted to NC1 Southwest Women, Paignton have quickly made their mark in the league, and from the first whistle it was clear Crediton were in for a tough afternoon. The game was physical throughout, with both sides conceding a number of penalties. Kicking to touch proved challenging in the swirling breeze, while the conditions also made lineouts difficult, with both teams being penalised for not throwing straight.

The opening score went to Paignton after a lineout failed to go Crediton's way. Catching the visitors off guard, Paignton attacked quickly and, following a few missed tackles, crossed under the posts to take a 7-0 lead.

Crediton responded immediately from the restart. After sustained pressure, Paignton's defence managed to hold up two promising scoring opportunities, but Crediton eventually got their reward when Holly Keast powered over. Rachel added the conversion to level the scores at 7-7.

From the subsequent kick-off, Crediton attacked again and earned a penalty for a high tackle. Rachel kicked deep into Paignton territory, setting up for an attacking lineout. Holly Burrow secured clean ball, allowing Crediton to form a strong driving maul. As the pack marched forward, Holly Keast peeled off the back and darted down the blindside to score her second try of the afternoon. Rachel's conversion gave Crediton a 14-7 advantage.

Paignton hit back strongly. More determined running and a couple of missed tackles allowed the home side to cross for another converted try, bringing the scores level at 14-14.

At half-time, Kaitlyn Fox replaced Michelle Greedy, while Alice Mahoney came on for Elise.

Crediton emerged after the break full of intent. Sustained attacking phases earned another penalty and eventually saw Holly Keast complete a hat-trick. Rachel maintained her perfect record from the tee, stretching Crediton's lead to 21-14.

Paignton continued to apply pressure and refused to let up. The scrums remained evenly contested, while strong carries from Alice Mahoney and Emma Davie helped Crediton gain valuable ground.

The introduction of Caitlyn Short in the backline brought experience and composure, helping Crediton organise their attack more effectively. Despite a few handling errors that allowed Paignton back into the game, the hosts could only reduce the deficit to 21-19.

Crediton's defensive effort was immense, with Megan McDonald and Ruth Shackleton putting in some excellent tackles, with Sarah Kingdom strong in both attack and defence. Emma Davie then produced a crucial turnover at the breakdown, and after several powerful attacking phases, Alice Mahoney crossed the line to extend Crediton's lead to 26-19.

Crediton showed tremendous determination throughout a fiercely contested encounter, holding firm against a strong Paignton side and producing some excellent passages of rugby in what proved to be an entertaining and hard-fought match.

Try scorers: Holly Keast (3), Alice Mahoney (1).

Conversions: Rachel (3).

Forward of the match: Holly Keast.

Back of the match: Ruth Shackleton.