The sun was shining on Hampstead Heath and it was a beautiful day for rugby, as Hampstead Ladies 2nd XV lined up against Hackney. Tensions were running high for this league title decider. A strong kick off from Hamsptead sent Hackney deep into their own half. Unfortunately despite some valiant defending from the forwards five minutes into the game Hackney set down a marker with their speedy winger catching Hampstead’s backs by surprise and blasting down the wing to score Hackneys first try.

Hampstead retaliated with some excellent forward play and another lengthy kick and chase from forward Elaine O’Rourke earned a penalty right on Hackneys 22 yard line. Kesha Evans kick soared beautifully between the posts giving Hampstead their first points on the board.

It was a battle between the forwards as Hackney fought for ground, but some fancy work from their backs allowed them to score another two tries before half time. The half time whistle blew with both teams grateful for the break, the half time score sat at 19- 3.

The second half started with Hampstead possession and some excellent work from their backs gained them ground. Hackney gave away a penalty and Hampstead's kick was rewarded with a line out in Hackney's 22. Hampstead's forwards seized this opportunity and drove Hackney back inches away from their own line. Strong crashing from Captain Alexia Troian Gautier, Luisa Nienhaus and Rhiannon Palmer ended with another penalty for Hampstead. Hampstead’s forwards persisted with their offense but Hackney defense were too strong and held them up. The resulting 5m scrum gave Hampstead’s forwards another chance to continue their assault with flanker Maylis Chapelli finally breaking over the line to score a well earned try for Hampstead.

Hampstead continued to battle bravely and despite some well excuted moves from the back line they never managed to score again. Hackney continued to attack Hampstead at every given opportunity and despite some excellent try saving tackles from full back Lou Clarke, Hackney continued to get points on the board.

True to form Hampstead never gave up and battled through right to the very last second. Every player left everything on the field, Hampstead could not have given any more. Full time score Hackney 33 - 8 Hampstead .

Forward of the match went to Luisa Nienhaus for some spectacular rucking and strong offensive carrying. Back of the match to Emily Taylor for stepping into number 10 for the first time and leading the backs with such decisive passion.

Report by Ciara McGowan, 2nd XV Vice Captain