Uncontested scrums hamper touring Harlequin Ladies
4:54pm Thursday 11th April 2002 in Harlequins
The Harlequin Ladies returned from their Easter Tour of northern France a stronger unit and, despite suffering two defeats, with team spirit soaring, writes Jo Everett.
The 18-strong squad's first match of the four day tour to the continent took place in Lille and was a game of twelves. The Quins ladies were disappointed at having to play uncontested scrums, as this denied them the use of perhaps their greatest strength.
However, the tourists were able to make the most of their driving mauls to secure their tries. After a couple of lucky interceptions and some strong running by the home team, the Harlequin Ladies eventually settled for a 37-17 defeat. Not to be disappointed for long, the Quins team made the most of Lille's hospitality, even learning a new style of surfing from their hosts.
The following day, Quins travelled down to Paris for a game against Chilly-Mazarin. Again, playing twelves with uncontested scrums made it very difficult for the Quins Ladies to play the game to their strengths and they suffered their second defeat, going down 36-5. As in Lille, the home team's hospitality was excellent and with a local festival taking place at the ground, the visitors were made very welcome indeed.
With the playing side of the tour completed, Sunday provided an opportunity for the Quins Ladies to sample the fine cuisine and nightlife that Paris has to offer, before returning home on Monday.
Though their rugby may not have been at its best, this tour was a great opportunity for the Ladies to reinforce the strong team bond that they have worked so hard to establish this season.
The Harlequin Ladies are always on the lookout for new players. Whether an old-hand or a complete novice, they look forward to hearing from you. Harlequin Ladies train on Wednesday and Friday nights from 7.30-9pm on the training pitch behind the 1st XV pitch at The Stoop. The U16 squad trains on Friday nights from 6-7pm at the same venue.
click2find
