Women's 1st XV - Howe of Fife
Oban Lorne Ladies blew away the cobwebs this weekend as they returned to the pitch after 6 weeks off. Opening their National Shield campaign at Glencruitten against familiar opposition Howe of Fife. The game kicked off well with both sides challenging for dominance. Visible rust from both sides of the pitch as small mistakes kept the challenge alive. Oban settled first and saw massive forward carries from Lindsay MacMillan, Jodi Millar and Aimee Clarke allowing the structure to return to the game. Some expert kicking from Ellie Macinnes saw Oban creep closer to the try line only to have the first attempt held up. Re-grouped and determined Oban collected the kick and Kirsty Sinclair powered over the line to add the first points to the score board. A second try from Poppy MacKillop followed swiftly after with her trademark style and flare. Oban picking up a few injuries and saw the first of their 7 strong bench come on to the pitch to make their mark on the game. However a mismatch on the wing saw Howe adding their own points to the score board just before half time, re-igniting their fire going into the second half.
A quick re-grouping with from coaches Corrie Lowe and Ellie Picken saw a few more changes the Oban as new and experienced players took to the pitch for the second half. Ailsa MacCuish lead the way powering through the Howe defence leaving them scrambling to get back onside. Evie Kellet saw her chance and dashed across the line backed by Rachel MacDonald to start the scoring in the second half. Converted by Ellie Macinnes. Howe fought back, found some structure and unleased the power in their full back as Oban’s defence struggled to contain her. Young Rachel Carre took to the stage determined to prove her power and ended the 15’s strong campaign with skilful tackling and an unmatched determination. Now with the team firing on all cylinders again Kirsty Sinclair crashed over the Howe line for a second time bringing the scoring to a close at 22-5 in Oban’s favour.
Player of the match was awarded to Ailsa MacCuish for her skilled running and determination on and off the ball. With plenty to work on this week at training the ladies have a quick turnaround as they travel away to Inverness Craig Dunain on Saturday. Thanks goes to all of the sponsors and supporters that turned out to support the team on a chilly afternoon.
