They started the season with a 24-0 win over Newbury in a good display of running rugby at Bushy Park. With a big and strong pack, Newbury gave Antlers a tough challenge in the opening half with Izzy Jorris and Hollie Blenman scoring one try each after some great work from Rhian Clarkson to create space through handling and good kicking.

After the break Jorris was in again with an excellent finish and she almost had a hattrick after a lovely pick up from Laura Mackay saw space open up but the final pass just went awry. Laura Semple crashed over for the fourth try and Antlers just missed out on a bonus point in the final play with Penny Carr bursting through but being called back for a forward pass. Up front Heather Smith hit some lovely lines while newcomer Emma Kite impressed in the second row alongside Karen Griffin.

Next up was newly promoted Witney and Antlers won comfortably scoring 11 tries in a 63-15 win. Antlers were 34-5 up at the break with Jorris again prominent while Clarkson, Blenman and Laura Parry also combined well in the backs. With all seven replacements also getting a run out for the second game running, Antlers also saw good performances from Becky Piddlestone and off the bench Toni Kershaw made a great impact.

Teddington’s third game against Richmond 3s was called off with the opposition struggling for numbers.

Next up Teddington take on Maidenhead in a friendly before going back into league action against Cheltenham. They have been drawn against Hampstead 2s in the first round of the Junior Cup – the competition which the team reached the national final of last year.

The ladies are training every Wednesday night at St Mary’s University at 8pm. All players, new and experienced are welcome.