Corks travelled to Uckfield for their first competitive fixture of the season on Sunday. After a long preseason and 3 months of hard work the team were buzzing to put what they had been practicing to the test.
Corks started well gaining good field position through strong carries from the forwards and intelligent running lines from the backs. It was unfortunate that Uckfield were able to turn the ball over in their own 22 and score a quick breakaway try. This was to form a pattern for the rest of the match and it was clear that Uckfield were going to provide a stern test, already having one successful outing this season.
Corks continued controlling the game and dominated in terms of possession and field position but could not get the final pass to stick to allow them to score the well deserved first try of the season. Uckfield continued to defend resolutely and took their chances well to lead 17-0 at the break.
With a bit of competitive rugby under their belts Corks were able to come out firing in the second half. Lynn Tickner took advantage of a solid platform from an attacking scrum, powering down the blindside to score the first try of the season. Corks continued to pile on the pressure but Uckfield continued to withstand the intensity and were patient in waiting for their chance for the ball and were able to score with impressive efficiency when presented the chance.
Corks stuck to the task at hand and were able to make the pressure count by scoring the best try of the match as Tamzin Kerslake was able to power over the line after consistent energy following strong carrying from the forwards and good identification of space from the backs.
The final score of 38-10 did not reflect the match. Corks controlled possession and territory for large waves and gave a very strong Uckfield side a real test. Credit to Uckfield who took their chances well and defended with real passion throughout the contest. The Corks team should very proud of what they achieved in this match. They fronted up and produced a performance that filled the coaches with great excitement. This team could go on to achieve some very special moments this season.
A huge well done to all who put on the shirt for this fixture. A special shout out to those who played their first match of competitive rugby in this fixture. This was a stern test for even seasoned players and all the new players did themselves and the shirt proud. Congratulations to Lucia Schifano who was voted Back of the match for her barnstorming runs in the middle of the pitch complimented by some delicate offloads and Tamzin who was voted Forward of the match for her pinballing runs and huge work rate around the pitch.
