The Wasps made the trip to Vagabonds in the Isle of Man looking to continue their fine season unbeaten. An early start, flight and bus journey and a strong Vagabonds team were challenges that faced the Wasps in this tough fixture.
A very strong wind was blowing down the pitch and Vagabonds chose to play with this in the first half.
Straight from kick off the Wasps were under pressure with the Vagabonds forwards making several strong carries and really testing the Kendal defence. For the first 15 minutes it looked like the Wasps were still on the plane but luckily the defence was holding firm.
Midway through the first half the Wasps started to look more like their usual selves with some breaks from deep but the final pass was lacking on a couple of occasions. The Wasps managed to score the first try of the game when turnover ball was secured from a Vagabonds attack, fast hands got the ball wide to Vanessa Temple who beat a couple of defenders on her way to the line. Abby Bland converted for a seven nil lead.
Vagabonds came back strongly after a great break from their scrum half, who was excellent throughout the game, this gave the their strong forwards the platform to rumble over from close range. The game went into half time with the scores level 7-7.
The Wasps were hoping to up their game in the second half, especially with the wind behind their backs. The second half was mostly played in the Vagabonds half but errors were stopping Kendal from taking any advantage.
Eventually a good spell of pressure allowed Vanessa Temple to score her second try of the game to put the Wasps 12-7 in front with ten minutes to go.
Laura Mason went close to scoring but was held up over the line and then Emily Knowles went close after a nice break down the wing.
The final try of the game came from a strong, determined run from Vanessa Temple who beat several defenders on her way to completing her hat trick. Bland converted to bring the final score to 19-7.
Vanessa Temple and Emily Knowles were named players of the match in what was a very tough match against a determined Vagabonds side. The Wasps remain unbeaten but will be slightly disappointed with the performance.
Attentions now turn to the national cup, when Sefton are visitors to Mint bridge on Sunday in the quarter final. Kick off is 2pm.