The Ladies were first on the score board, as fly-half Amy Gibbons intercepted a pass from her opposite number, offloading to Kay Rees to touch down. Hampstead immediately recovered from this setback, their pack dominating the breakdowns and forcing turnover ball. Quins seemed to go to pieces, and tackling errors allowed Hampstead to run in four tries during the rest of the half.

Half-time score: Harlequin Ladies 5 – Hampstead 29

After an inspiring team-talk at half-time from coach, Alex Mead, the ladies emerged a different side. Clever use of the kicking game by Gibbons allowed Quins to penetrate time and again into the Hampstead 22. The ladies capitalised on their attacking position, with determined running from the front row repeatedly breaking the Hampstead defensive line. Having gained the upper hand, their confidence grew, which saw them cross the try line a further 5 times.

Full-time score: Harlequin Ladies 38 - Hampstead 29.

Tries: Kay Rees (3), Zoe Jeanes, Amy Smith, Kate Sinfield
Conversions: Amy Gibbons (4)

Next week the Ladies play their second league fixture, away to Camberley.

Bitter and Twisted are proud supporters of Harlequin Ladies. Bottled Bitter and Twisted is available to order online from Beers of Europe Ltd, as are all of Harviestoun's beers. Bitter and Twisted is available at larger Sainsbury's stores and all good retailers.

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Related Articles:

• Harlequin Ladies Fixtures 2007/8

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