The She Devils went into their first real test of the season with high hopes – thanks to an expanding squad and increasing commitment from every player they were looking for their first win over a young, fit, talented ISB outfit and they deservedly got it.
From the kick off the Devils controlled the match, thanks largely to their ability to keep the ball alive even under pressure from the tackle. In the first half ISB enjoyed precious little possession and only once pushed past the half way line. Despite ISB’s dominance in the ruck the Devils stayed tight and allowed their dangerous runners to gather no momentum on the wings.
Just before half time their discipline was rewarded when a series of short passes allowed Jane Cheung to burst forward to the line with Aurore Marie in close support. The support running allowed Cheung to make a beautiful fake and power over the line herself. Bridget Madell converted to make the score 7-0.
The She Devils came within a whisker of a second score when Naomi Bridges formed a huge driving maul to power over the line, but the ball was well held up on the ground by ISB. Aurore Marie also went close but a second try wouldn’t quite come.
Rattled, ISB and some second half changes that allowed them to come back into the game courtesy of some strong rubbing and a break away try – this left the Devils with 3 minutes to defend a 2 point lead. When the referee announced last play the Devils could have gone for the touch line to put the game beyond doubt but they signalled their new found confidence by winning two excellent scrums and getting the ball out to the influential Madell, who released Fiona Boyle for a characteristically powerful finish.