Turner turns it on as Ladies beat Bicester

Newbury Ladies second team returned to action for the first time in almost a month at the weekend, beating Bicester 34-5.

However it was Bicester who started the better, catching the visitors unaware from the kick-off and stealing possession, putting Newbury on the back foot.

From there, Bicester's quick and powerful side built pressure and managed to drive Newbury back towards their own line before sneaking across to score and move into an early 5-0 lead.

Newbury looked to respond but found themselves initially on the back foot, scrambling to maintain their defensive shape and prevent Bicester from breaking the line again.

However, a turnover and some quick hands from the visitors freed Charlotte McFadzen to burst through and score wide left.

The contest continued to be a close one until winger Amy Turner broke a Bicester tackle and showed the rest of the retreating home side a clean pair of heels, touching down for Newbury's second try of the day.

From that point onwards, the pendulum swung in Newbury's favour and the visitors scored three more tries in quick succession, extending their lead thanks to scores from Roisin Winston, Vicky Murdoch and Amy Turner, who would complete a hat-trick that exemplified the potency of the away team's backs.

Both sides defended strongly as the game headed towards a conclusion before the referee's final whistle signalled another win for Newbury.

River Lewis was awarded the forward of the match, while Oli Johnson was chosen as back of the match.

Next week, both Newbury teams will play at Monks Lane to celebrate International Women's Day.

Unbeaten Women's Championship South West 2 leaders Blues will take on third placed Trojans, while the second team welcome Fairford.

A pre-match lunch is being offered to celebrate the day.

To book, call 01635 230023.