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Ladies end run of six straight defeats with Sutton stalemate ahead of relegation grudge-match against Reading Abbey




Newbury Blues Ladies ended a run of six consecutive defeats with a hard-fought 0-0 draw at Sutton and Epsom.

Blues have been much-improved since making some structural and coaching changes over Christmas and saw further green shoots following their stalemate – a most unusual result in rugby – in south-west London.

Although first half possession was shared fairly evenly, Newbury’s dominance at the scrum allowed them to create a number of good opportunities.

Tilly Burn collects a lineout in Newbury's stalemate with Sutton and Epsom. Pictures by Alastair Gray
Tilly Burn collects a lineout in Newbury's stalemate with Sutton and Epsom. Pictures by Alastair Gray
Zoe Gittens charges through the Sutton line
Zoe Gittens charges through the Sutton line

One such occasion arose when a successful pick-and-go followed by a well-timed offload from Niki Paton-Robinson released speedster Anna Krzyzanowska, who beat several home defenders with a flying run.

The ball eventually found its way to Maisie Litchfield and the fleet-footed centre looked destined to continue her fine scoring form only to be denied by a superb last ditch tackle.

The hosts grew into the game after the break and dominated much of the second half but were unable to breach Newbury’s resolute defensive line, with Becks Reeves, Becky Wilson and Tilly Burn all flying into tackles.

Tilly Burn and Becks Reeves look for gaps in the home side's defence
Tilly Burn and Becks Reeves look for gaps in the home side's defence

Sutton and Epsom had a chance to take the lead from a penalty within range but, thankfully for Newbury, the attempt sailed wide of the posts.

Newbury, who are second-from-bottom in the Women’s Championship South 1, host bottom side Reading Abbey on January 28.



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