High off last match’s sweeping victory against the Tabs, the Panthers travelled to Northampton, eager to continue their winning streak in BUCS and finish the competition triumphant.
Lining up, the Panthers showed that hard work and conditioning does pay off, with an incredible chase down the field from Amelie Paterson (St Catz) narrowly stopping Northampton from scoring a try. Although the opposition manged to slip through and score soon after, Oxford quickly bounced back with Amy Power (New) fiercely powering through Northampton’s defensive line, adding a try to the board and renewing the team’s determination to win.
Despite facing a strong set of forwards, the Panthers showed no fear and showcased their skills, winning many scrums in a display of their technique and employing a variety of tactics to continue forcing Northampton back towards the try line. Manuella Kuwornu (New), playing at number 8 for the first time, demonstrated both her great strength and speed by skilfully evading tackles and scoring a try. This was quickly followed by another try from Emily Cameron (New), playing at number 5, bringing the score up to 15-7 by the end of the first half.
The Panthers entered the second half with high spirits and bundles of energy. Some great catches from fullback Tillie Lees (Keble), long kicks from Max Cook (Merton), and rapid sprints from winger Ella Gallagher (Hertford), all kept Northampton at bay.
Despite some try-saving tackles from the Panthers, Northampton eventually slipped through, scoring three more tries coupled with a number of conversions. Oxford showed great resilience, bouncing back with a second try from Amy Power. The match ended at 31-20 to Northampton, but the Panthers highlighted their cohesion as a team and gained valuable match experience ahead of the Varsity match against the Tabs.
Written by Sammi Shapiro.
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