The Wasps are through to the semi finals of the National Junior cup after a convincing win over Sefton Ladies.
Sefton lie second in the league below the Wasps, so a tough game was expected. Despite the reluctance of the Sefton coach to play on a wet pitch, the Sefton ladies were all keen to play so the game went ahead.
The game started with an early mistake from Kendal and this allowed Sefton to have an early spell of pressure but the Kendal defence held firm and forced the error. This was to be the only time in the first half that Sefton were in Kendal’s half.
Kendal’s forwards really upped their game for the rest of the half and this allowed the backs to look dangerous, even in the wet conditions. The half back pairing of Kirsty Ranson and Abby Bland were controlling the game and pinning Sefton back at every opportunity.
After a period camped near the Sefton line, Kendal finally scored the first try of the day with Hayley Hodgson forcing her way over from a Nessa Temple offload.
This try broke the Sefton resistance and Hodgson added her second try shortly after.
Kendal didn’t let up and further first half tries were added by Sarah Simpson and Rachelle Malette. Abby Bland converted three of the tries for a half time score of 26 nil.
The second half continued in the same vein, with Kendal dominating the game and the defence holding firm when needed. Sefton were not for making it easy for the Wasps with their no.8 making several strong carries and the Sefton backs showing glimpses of what they are capable of.
One attempt to break out of their half by Sefton was read perfectly by Abby Bland who intercepted and ran in to score from 40 metres.
Bland added her second try soon after making a break and beating several defenders on her way to the line.
With the weather worsening the referee brought an early end to the game in what was a great team performance from the Wasps. Credit to Sefton who were very tough to breakdown and never gave up, the team are a credit to the Sefton club.
The whole Kendal squad played fantastically well, forward of the match was Mary Page and Abby Bland was named back of the match.
The Wasps now play against Bletchley in the semi finals at Mint Bridge on Sunday 8th March, 2pm kick off. The Wasps would love to have your support in this huge game as they look to make the national junior cup final.