Crusaders women complete third win on bounce

Women’s Rugby League – July 9, 2023

Oldham Women 4
North Wales Crusaders Women 30 (T: Eloise Kirby 2, Stevie Donougher 2, Jasmin Dutton, Leanne Parry. C: Sioned Phillips 3)

Six tries from the visitors at Oldham’s Vestacare Stadium ensured they made it three straight wins since their formation.

The early stages of Sunday’s return clash against the Lancastrians saw Crusaders dominate possession but they were unable to make the most of it.

The breakthrough finally came on the half-hour when some impressive ball skills resulted in Eloise Kirby racing clear to touch down.

Eight minutes later the North Walians spread the ball out wide and Australian student Stevie Donougher sped over to score.

Neither try was converted, 8-0 half time to Crusaders.

There was still plenty of work to do for the visitors in the second half to clinch this game.

Crusaders made the perfect start by scoring two minutes into the half, Jasmin Dutton bursting through to ground in the corner.

In the 50th minute an unforced error from Oldham allowed the away side to break and cover 70 metres, some great hands enabling Leanne Parry to register try number four.

This time the conversion was successful – 18-0.

Soon after the Crusaders were able to keep the ball alive and Kirby pounced for her second try, which was improved by the kick.

The final try came after great defence from Crusaders saw them receive possession deep in their own half.

Great individual drives led to Donougher notching her second touchdown, which was converted.

Oldham kept battling and scored a late consolation try.

PREVIOUS RESULTS

June 25
North Wales Crusaders Women 36 (T: Becky Jarvis-Evans, Jasmin Dutton 2, Codie Slack, Ashley Manson, Stevie Donougher 2. C: Sioned Phillips 4)
Oldham Women 4
(match abandoned second half – injury)

June 11
North Wales Crusaders Women 28 (T: Eloise Kirby 2, Codie Slack, Becky Jarvis-Evans, Bea O’Neill. C: Sioned Phillips 4)
Heysham Atoms Women 18