Despite Shelford taking an early lead Loughborough’s fitness and pace won the visitors the match this Sunday.

Sunday saw Shelford back on the Davey Field to play host to the league’s top scoring team so far. Shelford kicked off to start the game and immediately took the fight to Loughborough, with excellent play from the entire team; the forwards flying over the rucks and backs creating holes in the oppositions defence. Continued pressure allowed the backs to work together and soon fullback, Lynne Pilbeam, was over the try line followed up by a conversion from Tia Martin. 

Unfortunately the try seemed to wake the visitors up and they soon attacked with renewed intensity. Despite strong play in both attack and defense the home team could not convert this into points. Loughborough’s back row and 13, in contrast, started to punch through Shelford’s line as the home team tired and the tries started to add up. 

Again in the second half Shelford competed well but failed to capitalise on their hard work. Loughborough’s superior fitness and pace were once more the deciding factor. Shelford fought to the last whistle, but while they spent a large proportion of the game in their opposition’s 22 and showed they have heart they will need to work hard before the return leg in the new year. The final score was 7-57.

Forward of the match: Daniele Gibney

Back of the match: Lynne Pilbeam