Hastings & Bexhill Women’s XV continued their return to competitive rugby with another encouraging performance, joining forces with Lordswood for a closely fought away fixture against Rye RFC.

In a contest that remained competitive throughout, the combined H&B and Lordswood side pushed their hosts all the way before Rye secured a narrow 17–15 victory.

While the result didn’t go our way, the performance provided further evidence of the progress being made within the women’s section, with strong individual contributions, determined defence and another player making her debut in the Blue & White.

Vicki Warman produced one of the game’s outstanding defensive moments from the second row, delivering a powerful tackle that drove a Rye attacker beyond the dead-ball line and prevented what looked to be a certain try.

On the wing, Jem Marcroft demonstrated excellent attacking awareness, executing a looping run that caught the Rye defence out of position. Her subsequent line break gained valuable territory and demonstrated the attacking threat available to the visitors.

At the breakdown, Terri Dowling continued to establish herself as a formidable defensive presence. Her ability to compete over the ball proved invaluable, securing an impressive four jackal turnovers during the match and repeatedly disrupting Rye’s attacking momentum.

Ruby Thompson once again demonstrated her versatility, initially playing out of position at centre before moving into the back row at flanker. Drawing on her experience at fly-half, Ruby provided an additional playmaking option among the forwards, helping to organise the attack, encourage quicker line speed and recognise opportunities to move possession into the wider channels.

One of the most encouraging moments of the afternoon was the debut of Emily Thompson, who made her first appearance for Hastings & Bexhill in the back row.

Emily immediately demonstrated her potential, producing several dominant carries and showing impressive determination with ball in hand. On one occasion, it took four Rye defenders to bring her to ground.

Her performance was an excellent introduction to competitive rugby and another positive step in the continued development of the women’s squad.

The occasion also carried particular significance for Emily and her family.

Her daughter currently plays for Hastings & Bexhill U9 Minis, meaning the roles can now be reversed, with a young rugby player getting the opportunity to stand on the touchline and cheer on her mum.

It is exactly the kind of moment that demonstrates the growing importance of women’s and girls’ rugby within the club.

Although Rye claimed the narrow victory, the combined H&B and Lordswood side can take considerable encouragement from a performance that demonstrated defensive commitment, attacking ambition and developing combinations.

With more players gaining valuable match experience and new faces continuing to join the squad, the foundations are being laid for an exciting future for women’s rugby at Hastings & Bexhill.

Attention now turns to Sunday 6th December, when Hastings & Bexhill Women’s XV are scheduled to play at home.

The fixture represents another important milestone for the developing women’s section, and the club hopes to see plenty of supporters on the touchline.

Full-time: Rye RFC 17–15 Hastings & Bexhill/Lordswood

Next fixture: Sunday 6th December — Home