Sunday at Woollams was certainly a day to remember. A day to both make and celebrate history, as OA Saints new and old came together for a thrilling day of rugby, bubbles and brunch. It was a superb family occasion, with over 45 supporters, including old players and their children – the new generation of saints! – enjoying a pre-game brunch. The supporters then settled in for the main event, as they watched the womens’ 1st and 2nd XVs run out at home in a double-header, the first in over 10 years.
The 2nd XV took on top-of-the-table side Welwyn in a closely fought match. The 24-17 victory to the Saints means they continue their clean sheet, with 4 wins from 4, and now puts them ahead as league leaders in the NC 2. Such a historic day for OAs can’t go by without special mention to 2XV captain on the day Nadia Dickinson-Brandon, making a welcome return to playing this season, after a 10 year hiatus and picking up player of the match to boot!
The 1st XV took on Championship newcomers Reading Abbey. To the great enjoyment of the crowd, the team made a fast start scoring 3 tries within the first 10 minutes. Fighting against strong winds and cold temperatures, the ladies put in a strong 80 minute performance with a flurry of team tries and some individual stunners! The 43-0 win was a real testament to the team’s hard work in both attack and defense, with notable performances from Saints newcomers Jo Palfrey and Lauren Head, who was nominated player of the match.
The day was a great success, both on and off the pitch; the enjoyment of the spectators was equally matched by all 42 women who took to the field. A huge thank you must go out to OA Sport and their wonderful catering staff for supporting the event, alongside Richard Milnes Club President and Rory Davis, Chairman, for their support on the day, presenting the Player of the Match awards.
A big thank you to the local businesses who donated prizes for our raffle; body mechanix, killa waffles, pudding stop, harpenden skin clinic, Davis Fitness and our many other generous donors.
We look forward to our next event when both teams return to Woollams for a double-header on 6th February 2022.
Reporter
