Plenty of positives for Orkney RFC Women despite defeat

Orkney RFC women played their first-ever match against Shetland this afternoon, and despite a comprehensive 12-53 defeat to their Northern Isles neighbours, they will be proud of their efforts.

The women had suffered several weather-related call-offs in their quest for a first taste of competitive action but the weather finally relented, with Shetland RFC Women visiting. The opening period was understandably fairly tentative from both sides but as both teams began to grow in confidence, some good play began to emerge. Shetland put Orkney under pressure early on but there was plenty of commitment from Orkney with tackles flying in and great teamwork being exhibited.

Indeed it was Orkney who got their names on the scoresheet first with a first-ever try. Amy Walker robbed Shetland of possession and sprinted the entire length of the pitch, she fell agonisingly short of the try line but Orkney were not to be denied, and touched down under the posts for an impressive converted try.

However, Shetland hit back soon after with a converted try to bring the score level at 7-7. Orkney’s heads didn’t go down though and Amy Walker scored a great try in the corner to extend their lead to 12-5.

With Shetland enjoying greater possession as well as territory, it seemed only a matter of time until they reduced the deficit, something which they duly did with a converted try to get ahead 12-14.

As play raged on, Orkney found it difficult to really threaten a superior Shetland side and ultimately the visitors ran out comfortable winners, scoring several tries and conversions. Orkney Women can be proud of some great teamwork though, and despite the scoreline, there are plenty of positives to take from their first-ever match.