The rain started just as the whistle blew to start the game, and it just got wetter and wetter as the game went on. Ophir did not leave the North Down half in the entire 1st half, such was their dominance in ball retention. The weather was a huge factor in preventing scores but our inability to get the ball wider, quicker resulted in lost opportunities. That said, the handling in such wet conditions was of a very high standard. Frustratingly we were unable to transfer all the pressure into points and the half ended 0-0.

The second half picked up where the 1st ended, Ophir camped inside the North Down half. Cindy Cancino playing at inside centre, was colossal in attack and defence, putting in some very effective tackles and running some beautiful lines. Cindy was awarded Player of the Match.
Pressure eventually told after a set of 10+ phases with Natasha Milligan getting her 1st try of the day under the posts. Megan Finney grabbed the extra 2 pts with a nice conversion. Not long after the 1st try, came the 2nd, again by Natasha, and again after a long period of phase plays by Ophir. A lovely offload by Megan to Michelle, who set up the ruck, quick ball was then fed to the backs who passed the ball wide, allowing Natasha to go in unopposed in the corner. The game ended 12-0.

Captain Michelle Fiddis led from the front with lots of carries. Lucy Taylor also played one of her best games in an Ophir Jersey with a high number of carries, most of which getting over the gain line. Also worth noting is the performance by Vicky Thompson who showed grit and determination throughout the match. Vicky is new to the game of rugby but played like a veteran and has a bright future in the sport.

The Ophir 10-12-13 combination is gelling nicely and at the heart of everything good Ophir do. Their handling, lines of running, pace and passing are of a high standard. Let's see how Ophir get on against Portadown as they try to develop a 15 player game.

Up the ophs