| Cooke started strongly with Cathy Craig scoring a try within the first seven minutes of the game, followed closely by Nicola Dixon touching the ball down after a bright pick- and- drive from the breakdown. Speedy winger, Laura Stewart was next to jump on the bandwagon, skilfully gathering the ball and gaining another try for Cooke. City of Derry were strong up front and credit must be given to their number eight (and Captain) Glenda Fleming who demonstrated sound contact skills and made some sturdy ball carries. However, Cooke’s Cathy Craig was not content with just one try, and before the whistle blew for half time, ran in a further try.
Although Derry showed glimpses of attack, primarily through the lineout and maul of their lineout, Cooke continued to prove too strong for the side. Lucy Fagan impressively placed another five points on the board for Cooke as well as converting three tries with her outstanding boot (a very difficult task bearing in mind the pressure which the harsh weather put upon her).
Cooke’s forwards kept City of Derry in their own half for the majority of the second half and a magnificent kick and chase from Laura Nicholl resulted in another try for the team. Cooke’s number 12, Imogen Porter played an extremely strong game, making some striking runs. She was next to get her name on the score sheet before getting the ball right back up to the try line for fellow team mate Rachel Boyd to place the finishing try. The final score on the day was an impressive 46-0 to Cooke.
Recognition must go to both teams for persevering on such a treacherous afternoon, and congratulations to Cooke for their overwhelming win. Although City of Derry did not get any points on the scoreboard, they played with physicality and determination throughout.
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