After a week of stormy weather, the ladies were relieved just to be playing today's top of the table clash against Minehead. The Somerset side had crept into the top spot which Topsham had held for most of the start of the season but with a game in hand, Topsham successfully regained their rightful place after a convincing win in front of a home crowd.

The final score of 45-20 was a reflection of a great attacking game with both sides putting in a hard shift. Topsham opened the score almost immediately with two tries a piece from Prop, Meg Coombes and Outside Centre, Rebecca Partridge, respectively, both within a few minutes of the opening whistle. The team worked the ball superbly and the tries came from well structured, heads up phases of play.

Shortly after, Minehead caught the home side napping, probably still basking in their initial glory, and came back with 2 breakaway tries from two hard runners that cut through Topshams stifled defence.

This first quarter paved the style of play for the rest of the game, except this time Topsham weren’t to be caught on the back foot again until the last 10minutes. Coombes and Partridge collected a couple more tries inside the first half with Fly Half, Ann Webb sealing two conversions, making the half time score 24-10. The second half was a very similar show with three more tries for the home supporters to enjoy. Webb earnt herself two superb, converted tries with Partridge also touching down another for Webb to convert.

Off the bench, Lydia Robinson had a cracking game on the Wing, nearly scoring herself and earned herself back of the match after only her 3rd game ever. Laura Harris was also awarded forward of the match for her huge tackling efforts, work around the park and secure carries. The team overall can be very proud of their efforts, their structure of play and general control was exactly what the coaches asked for and have been working on relentlessly in training. Minehead were a strong side with strong runners and despite the score, put up one of the strongest oppositions so far this season, for the Topsham Ladies.

Topsham play at Withycombe RFC next Sunday. If you are interested in supporting or joining the team, or know someone who does please contact topshamladiesrugby@gmail.com for details, all levels and experience welcome.