PREVIOUS YEARS:
All previous match reports etc can be found at the Archive page.
SEVENS TOURNAMENT
25TH MAY 2019
BOWL FINAL WIN FOR THE WARRIORS
Match Report by: Colin "Choc" Warrick
The Warriors took the road for the final time in season 2018-19 to visit friends Biggar Ladies & compete in their annual 7s tournament, the Warriors looking to retain the cup they won last year.
With 12 teams due to compete in 4 groups of 3 it was sure to be tightly contested, with the weather not being conducive to 7s & especially with Premier league teams Corstorphine Cougars & Hillhead Jordanhill taking part for the 1st time, also competing were the Scrum RP team which is an invitational team on this occasion made up mostly of Watsonians players.
Annan were paired with Broughton & the Scrum RP in their group with the top team going into the cup semis & runner going into the bowl semis.
First up was Broughton Ladies, Annan started quite rustily with not having played much 7s at all, that aligned with quite a forward orientated squad mean the free flowing 7s style rugby was a bit rare early on. Annan were however 1st on the scoresheet when scrum half Nicole Barlow burst away to run in from half way. With normal kicker Mally McGeoch being ill the Warriors lacked her normal accuracy from the boot & the conversion as with a quite a number throughout the day was missed.
Almost straight from the kick off after the Warriors conceded a couple of successive penalties Broughton scored to tie the game at half time 5 all. The 2nd half kicked off with Annan taking control playing their off-load game which allowed them tie players in & free up space out wide, it was from one of these phases that Abbie Clark burst away handing off all comers to score he 1st of the day. This was followed quickly by an almost identical score from Abbe Clark again taking the final score to 15-5.
After around a 1 hour & 1/2 wait Annan took on the Scrum RP who had looked the part in their 1st game also against Broughton. The Warriors started brightly playing their physical brand of 7s taking the lead from pocket rocket Nicole Barlow who after a couple of burst by the Annan Ladies took an offload to tear away from the defence, conversion by Correy Clark. Unfortunately, this was to be the only score for Annan with the Scrum team utilising their much more experience & pace across the whole team to score at regular intervals, running out winners by 33-7.
So, defending the cup it wasn't to be & the Warriors stepped into the bowl semi-final against Kelso Ladies in what was turning out to be quite a cold wet afternoon. It was in this game that Annan played their best rugby scoring at what seemed like at will with the ball being offloaded in the tackle & kept alive by the players with score coming from Chelsea Barnes, Kayleigh Warrick, Abbie Clark, & Nadine Barnes, two of which were converted by Correy Clark to run out winners 24-0.
Into the final the Warriors went against Hillhead Jordanhill Ladies who after suffering a couple of injuries had borrowed a couple of players from Biggar. This was an evenly matched contest with both teams giving it all & finally Annan managing to get the ball wide to speed merchant Kirsty Barlow who scored twice either side of her sister Nicole, one of which was converted by Correy Clark to round off a successful day winning by 17-10.
All in all, a good way to end the season with the Warriors knowing that they can match teams like the Scrum team with a bit more work n pace. Thanks to our intrepid supporters who braved the weather to cheer on the Warriors.
Annan Warriors team: Kayleigh Warrick, Lily Glendinning, Correy Clark, Nicole Barlow, Chelsea Barnes, Lorna Vevers, Kirsty Barlow
Subs: Abbie Clark, Linden Moffat, Nadine Barnes, Kim Taylor
FRIENDLY
4TH MAY 2019
GREAT END OF SEASON PERFORMANCE FROM THE WARRIORS
Report by Colin Warrick (Match Highlights)
The Annan Warriors welcomed the touring team of Llangollen Ladies from North Wales as part of their bank holiday tour.
The visitors like the Warriors are still a fairly new team who have played league rugby for 3 seasons in a league in North Wales this year sitting in 3rd position with one game to play. So the Warriors didn't really know what standard of opposition they would face for their final 15s outing of the season.
The game kicked with Annan playing away from the clubhouse & from the kick off Annan went on the attack with big carries coming from the forwards being repelled with the visitors number 6 putting some huge tackles in. From a ruck in centre field the ball was moved right by the forwards to winger Kirsty Barlow to shoot up the outside & score under the posts, conversion by Mally.
From the kick off possession changes hands several times in a long period of play with both teams trying to breakthrough when from a loose ball Ashley Clark secured possession for scrum half Nicole Barlow to make one of her now customary snipes to feed winger Megan Ker who ran in to score.
With Annan failing to control the kick off the visitors attacked hard & following a pair of missed tackles scored a converted try under the posts.
Annan were beginning to dominate the game with surges from Kayleigh, Correy & Nadine in the drove the opposition back & from a tap penalty close in the 1st attempt was stopped before Nadine Barnes dived over from close range.
The next try followed swiftly when from a tap penalty the ball was move through the hands for 2nd row to burst through the line & round the full back to score from half way, conversion by Mally.
The final try of the half came from the Warriors & from a 5m scrum on their own line, number 8 Kayleigh Warrick picked from the base to surge out of the 22 to be followed by another carry from Nadine before the ball was moved wide to wing forward Lily Glendinning who raced upfield only to be stopped 5 yard from the opposition line where she popped the ball up to supporting centre Lorna Vevers who finished off the length of the pitch move, converted by Mally.
Half time score: Annan Warriors 31 v Llangollen Ladies 7
Into the 2nd half with wind on their back the Annan Ladies started with a bang with 3 converted tries in the 1st 10 minutes of the half two from stand off Mally McGeoch & one from new eyebrowed Abbie Clark, two of which were converted.
The game continued to to & fro with the Welsh Ladies trying their best to break down the Warriors defensive wall, before Annan put on another three try burst the 1st from Abbie Clark when following a number of phases Nadine Barnes burst through a gap to offload over the head of the final defender for Abbie to have a clear run in, the 2nd & 3rd from winger Rachel Armstrong the 1st when she gathered a clearing kick to race clear the 2nd following a burst from prop Ashley Clark with Mally converting 2 out of 3.
The biggest cheer of the day came when Annan scored their final try when from another number of phases Ashley Clark drove over for her 1st ever Warriors try in her 28th game.
The last word went to the touring who scored a consolation try at the death to bring to the end a thoroughly enjoyable game.
Final Score: Annan Warriors 76 v Llangollen Ladies 19
Special mention to 18 year old Megan Muir who made her Warriors debut & also to the two injured Ladies one of our guests with a broken collarbone & to Warrior Sarah Grainger with a wrist injury.
Thanks goes to our visitors who made the long trip & am sure the Warriors look forward to returning the visit
Annan team: Ashley Clark, M Alexander, J Dalgliesh, M Muir, C Clark, N Barnes, S Grainger, K Warrick, N Barlow, M McGeoch, M Ker, C Barnes ©, L Vevers, K Barlow, K Taylor
Subs: (all used) L Kyle, M Parker, L Glendinning, Abbie Clark, R Armstrong
FRIENDLY
5TH MAY 2019
GREAT 2ND HALF FOR THE HORNETS
Match Report from: Neil Bell
Annan Hornets travelled to Maryport to play with Netherhall against Preston Grasshopper.
Annan arrived with 16 players, which is the best we have had all season.
It was suggested that play against both English teams as Netherhall had the lowest number of players available and 15 a side which would help the girls learn more about the forwards side of the game. Also it was a chance to try some of the new girls in new position that they have never played before.
Annan kicked off and Preston/ Netherhall scored straight from the kick off. Preston/Netherhall scored another 2 tries before the Hornets got over the the try line with Captain Eva Graham scoring.
Preston Netherhall scored another 3 before halftime whistle.
Annan Hornets 1 try v to Preston/Netherhall Girls 6 try's
With the coach explaining to the girls that they needed to support the ball carriers and close down in their defence they would give the opposition and better game. So Preston/Netherhall kicking off Annan scored straight from the kick off from some passing through the line to get Zoe Mitchell on the score sheet.
Annan started to get more confident in all areas and the 3rd try came with Eve Jackson making a breakthrough 2 tackles and running 30 metres just to be tackled 1/2 a metre short of scoring but Eva Graham being there in support to crash over.
Eva going off injured after a bad fall. So Isla Cooper standing in as Captain. Annan next score came from standoff Sarah Hunter who spotted a gap in the defence and ran a good 40 metres to score. Sarah also got another 2.
Annan last try coming from a good bit of supporting play from the backs with Fullback Isla Cooper making a break on the right wing and being tackled a couple metres short but popping the ball up to Zoe Mitchell to score
Annan winning the 2nd half 6 tries to 5 but full time score being Preston Grasshopper/ Netherhall 11 - Annan Hornets 7
It certainly was a game of 2 halves but to be fair most of Annan Hornets were 13 years old while the opposition were 15 years old.
Standing out for the forwards was Holly Clark and Eva Graham
In the backs Zoe Mitchell, Sarah Hunter and Isla Cooper
Girl of the match for Annan was Isla Cooper who covered the pitch well at her fullback role and special mention goes a few girls Isla Grieve being one of the smallest girls on the pitch playing first time at centre, and getting stuck in.
Katie Morrison and the adopted Scottish/Australian Murren Thin-Smith playing their first game for the U15 and giving it their all. Best of Luck to Katie as she moves up next season.
Well Hornets, thanks a entertaining season and I hope to see you all again at the start of next season. The future is bright for the Annan Warriors!
FRIENDLY
28TH APRIL 2019
100% FOR THE HORNETS
Match Report from: Neil Bell
Annan Under 13 Hornets hosted Penrith rugby club for a game of tens.
It was decided to play 4 games and Hornet Sarah Hunter was Captain for the day.
In the first match, Sarah led by example and was first over the try line. Followed by Kara Jamieson, Jenna Williamson Eva Graham and special mention to Hannah Colledge for getting her first try for the Hornets. Hornets winning the first Game 5-1
After a 5 minute rest, the Hornets started as they finished with Sarah Hunter getting 3 tries Hannah Colledge, Niamh Ross, Eva Graham and Ayda Chierchia all scoring Annan winning this game 7-4.
In the third game, Penrith started to play some good rugby by having supporting players and making Annan work harder to win this game 6 -4. Sarah Hunter getting another 3 tries. Eva Graham, Jenna Williamson and getting her first try and a good try might I add for Michaela Geddes.
In the final game, Annan won 6-5. Eva Graham getting 3 Sarah Hunter getting 1 and Ellie Byers getting 2 on her first ever game for the Hornets.
Many thanks to Penrith for coming up to play us. You would not think the Penrith Girls only started playing rugby a few months ago. We look forward to playing some more games in the future.
Well done to all Hornets that played today.
Penrith picked Sarah Hunter and Eva Graham as best players
Thanks goes to Sean Haren for being Referee for 3 of the games and Colin Warwick for doing the last game.
- Sarah Hunter: played well as Captain and cover the pitch with some good tackles as well as scoring most of Annan tries
- Kara Jamieson: doing some good runs and now using the hand offs.
- Jenna Williamson: putting in some good tackles and getting more confident every game she plays and stealing some ball in the ruck.
- It was good to see Ayda Chierchia back playing after her bad injury and doing some good runs with the ball.
- Eva Graham: using her strength and speed to score some good tries and being there in support.
- Niamh Ross: doing what she does well hunting the ball and stealing a few balls
- Isla Grieve: playing her 2nd game for us today and getting stuck in and putting some tackles in.
- Michaela Geddes: growing in confidence and nice to see her score a good try
- Hannah Colledge: scoring 2 tries and getting stuck with great tackles.
- Ellie Byers: playing her first game for the hornets and good to see her use her speed to score 2 tries and win us the last game .
Saturday 4th of May is the last game this season at Maryport leaving Annan for 11.30am
TOURNAMENT
14TH APRIL 2019
100% FOR THE HORNETS
Match Report from: Ellie Henderson
On Sunday 14th April, Annan sent a new girls u13 team across the border to Penrith to play in a girls festival. Annan were to play against Kendal/ Keswick/ Netherall/ Kirby Lonsdale and our hosts Penrith. There were all relatively new teams; like ourselves.
Our team was made up of Sarah Hunter, Eva Graham, Nieve Ross, Kara Jamieson, Jenna Williamson, Michaela Geddes, Ellie Smith, Isla Grieve, and two girls from Moffat; Heidi Jamieson and Imogen Spence.
Coach/ first aider: Billy Henderson and Abbie Clark
2 helpers: Emily Hunter and Erin Ewing
Referee: Ellie Henderson
We played 5 10 minute games on a third of a pitch. We scored 25 tries overall and only conceded 5 tries.
This was our first session at u13 level as we normally have to play at u15 level. Being able to play against similarly aged girls gave us so much more confidence during the games in our own ability. Also the English rules allowed us to rip the ball in the tackle.
We ran hard and aggressively with the ball in hand. When the intensity increased we were more relaxed and controlled the ball well. When they had the ball we were aggressive in our tackles and counter rucks.
It was great to see our girls, especially Nieve and Imogen putting pressure on the opposition. This was a pleasing day for our girls as we have had a hard league season.
Thanks you to the parents for transporting the girls.
Emily and Erin for helping with the girls
Ellie for a dynamic warm up and agreeing to be one of the referees
Abbie Clark for coming along and being very supportive/ informative
Also Nigel at Penrith for inviting us and hopefully we can have a few more games against Cumbrian teams.
But mostly thanks to the girls for really getting stuck in. Tremendous.
Brief summary of player performance:
Eva - Centre, Captain. Good strong carrys and support play, 5 tries.
Sarah - Stand-off. M.O.M performance, excellent kicking/ good strong determined running,strength to rip the ball from opponents . 10 tries.
Jenna - Prop. Tackled, carried, strength in ruck, enthusiasm likes physical part of game. 1 try.
Nieve - Scrum Half, excellent sniping from SH position. 5 tries
Isla - Wing- Smallest girl on the pitch. Just started showing lots of promise for Rugby, excellent pace. 1 try
Imogen - Prop, 1st game for Annan ( loaned to us from Moffat) Evident she has a good Rugby knowledge, had to go off with a nasty leg cut but came on, 1 try.
Heidi - Wing/Center, another 1st game for Heidi quite knowledgeable about the game, good carries and unlucky not to score.
Kara - Hooker, Probably her best game for Annan developing a good knowledge about the game. Good carries and unlucky not to score.
Michaela - Wing, Only her 2nd game for Annan, developing a good knowledge also, good carries and again unlucky not to score.
Ellie - Centre. Confident girl who not played a great deal of rugby this year but what a great tournament she had with her dancing runs. 1 try.
SARAH BEANEY CUP
31ST MARCH 2019
WARRIORS EXIT THE CUP
Report by Colin Warrick (Match Photos (opens in a new tab) / Match Highlights)
So, with the group stages of the cup over Annan Warriors faced Stirling County Ladies in the preliminary round of the Sarah Beaney Cup in perfect conditions at Violetbank.
Annan looking to improve on the performance the last time the teams met last August with the Warriors going down 72-12, determined to put a performance in & even cause a cup shock.
The game kicked off with Annan playing away from the clubhouse & almost instantly went on the attack, with the kick off retained the forwards went on the attack running hard at the Stirling defences almost breaking free.
The opening exchanges were fairly even until the 15th minute when from a scrum penalty Annan tapped quickly & surged forward through scrum half Nicole Barlow, the ball was recycled quickly & following several phases of interplay between forwards & backs scrum half Barlow broke again bumping the much larger Stirling prop to the ground before offloading to captain Chelsea Barnes who broke the final tackle to score the opening try which was converted by Mally McGeoch.
Almost straight from the kick off Annan attacked again but were unfortunate to turn the ball over with the sharp pacy Stirling backs taking full advantage to break & score under the posts. From the kick off the Stirling prop got her own back on the Annan players by throwing the 1st of several outrageous dummies & burst through the line before spreading the ball wide for their speedy winger rounding full back Kim Taylor to score under the posts.
A blow to the Annan players who had started brightly, they kicked off again with determination still high. The remainder of the half played out with both teams going at it hammer & tongs, the Annan forwards having the upper hand in the loose exchanges up front but the Stirling backs causing problems to the Warriors defences.
With 3 minutes to go in the half from another quick tap penalty Annan moved the ball quickly with Kayleigh Warrick carrying hard into the Stirling defence with the ball being recycled & moved through the hands of Linden Moffat to Correy Clark charging at pace, with only the fullback to beat Correy executed the almost perfect 2 v 1 feeding the ball to the supporting Allana McWilliam who scored the Warriors 2nd try.
Half time score: Annan Warriors 12 v Stirling County 14
The 2nd half started with the Warriors buoyed by a confident 1st half performance hoping to cause a cup upset.
However, the Stirling Ladies had other ideas & almost straight from the kick off they dealt the Warriors two swift blows by scoring two rapid fire tries which were both converted.
This certainly knocked the Warriors confidence but showing the learnings from playing in the Premier League the Warriors didn't lie down & came back firing once again, from a knock just inside the Annan half the ball was recovered by full back Kim Taylor & from the ensuing ruck scrum half Barlow spotted an unguarded blindside & shot off down the wing to just outrun the covering winger to score Annans 3rd try.
Disappointingly 2 lapses in concentration followed from the Annan ladies & Stirling once again took full advantage identifying that playing with width was causing real problems for Annan, scored another two quick tries to extend their lead to 25.
Annan stuck to their guns & once again took advantage of a Stirling indiscretion tapping quickly from a penalty & bursting into the Stirling 22, with carries from Chelsea, Kayleigh, Allana & Abbie taking them close for Nicole 'Mini bus' Barlow forcing herself over the line from close range with a supporting shove off her half back partner Mally.
So, with six tries in the opening 25 minutes of the second half both teams understandably began to tire with mistakes becoming more to the fore. From one of those mistakes the Stirling left winger capitalised to round the Annan defence to score a further try.
The final say of the game went deservedly to Annan & the forwards with Nadine, Chelsea linking to feed Abbie Clark to score from just inside the Stirling 22.
Final Score: Annan Warriors 29 v Stirling County 47
A good performance from the Annan team with forwards playing well as a group, holding their own at set piece & getting the upper hand in the loose play. The backs not quite reaching their usual standard but considering three of the Annan back line are in their 1st season of senior rugby will only get better.
Lots of positives to take & a few work ons to improve to make the Warriors a challenger in next seasons National One.
Best in the forwards were Kayleigh Warrick, Nadine Barnes & Chelsea Barnes with forward of the match going to Allana McWilliam
In the backs Kirsty Barlow & Eilidh Henderson gave their all with back of the match going to Nicole Barlow.
With the Warriors cup run drawing to a close thanks go to Billy Jardine, Alan Robertson, Marion Hamilton & the staff in Bank St for their support & also for the Warriors dedicated supporters for their endless cheering during the season.
Good luck to Stirling in the quarter final of the cup.
Annan team: N Barnes, M Alexander, E Jardine, K Warrick, Abbie Clark, C Clark, A McWilliam, C Barnes (C), N Barlow, M McGeoch, M Ker, E Henderson, C O'Connell, K Barlow, K Taylor
Replacements: Ashley Clark, J Dalgliesh, J Park, L Moffat, L Glendinning all used. L Kyle, M Parker both unused
SRU GIRLS CLUB CUP
24TH MARCH 2019
89 POINT THRILLER
Report by Neil Bell
Annan Hornets travelled up to Ayr on Sunday to play in the first round of the Scottish Rugby Girls Club Cup.
With 13 players and a few players playing in new positions, this was always going to be testing game for the Hornets especially since Ayr had a squad of 20 players to choose from.
Annan started well and were first on the scoreboard with a try from Zoe Mitchell. Ayr scored next and this was much how the game was played throughout the match. Annan lost Erin Ewing after 10 mins, so the girls played with 12 players for the rest of the match.
Annan Hornets played some good rugby during the game and it was good to see the forwards picking up at the breakdown and going forward with some big runs. Abby Norman, Holly Clark and Kara Jamieson standing out for the forwards. Sadly Annan lost Abby Notman with 10 mins left due a bad knock on her knee.
Annan tries came from: Zoe Mitchell (2), Holly Clark, Eva Graham and Isla Cooper (3)
Final Score: Ayr Girls 48 v Annan Hornets 41 - Ayr scoring in the last minute of the game.
Well done to Holly for getting her first try for the Hornets, I'm sure they will be more over the years.
Skye Watret had a best game for the Hornets this season with some big tackles and Jenna Williamson moving into the forwards and did not look out of place.
Niamh Ross playing her first game at scrum half and putting some good pressure on her opposite number and tackling the biggest player on the pitch.
Hannah Colledge playing her first ever game of rugby and you would not of thought that by her play.
Well done to Ayr who go into the next round of the cup.
Annan now play in the Shield round and have been drawn to Grampian Girls away, next Sunday, 31st March.
Last word from the coach - "Annan girls you might be Hornets but you were like Warriors when you came off that pitch. Be proud of yourself. The futures looking good for the Annan Warriors!"
SARAH BEANEY CUP
3RD MARCH 2019
GREAT START IN THE CUP
Report by Colin Warrick
The road to a Murrayfield in the revamped Sarah Beaney Cup began for the Warriors with a trip to Glasgow to face Glasgow Uni Ladies in the 1st game of the pool stages.
Knowing the importance of a good start the Warriors started hard with a big focus made on controlling both the ball & territory with the elements on their back. Straight from the kick off 2nd row Kayleigh Warrick set the standard with a clean catch & charge into the oncoming Uni defence, followed quickly by carries from Correy Clark & Nadine Barnes the Warriors were soon camped in the Uni 22 only for the ball to be turned over & kicked clear. The Warriors were soon once more camped in the opposition 22 & following a couple of pick n goes from the forwards Nadine Barnes burrowed over from close range.
So buoyed by a good start the Warriors once more went on the charge from the kick off with Kayleigh again catching cleaning & charging forwards into the defence, this time from a carry by Nadine the ball was offloaded out of the tackle for Allana McWilliams to burst away from the defence only to be tackled by the full back, the ball being recycled quickly & 2nd row Correy Clark scoring the 2nd try.
A better start couldn't have been wished for from the Warriors & the question was could it continue. The kick off wasn't held this time & the Uni Ladies were given their 1st opportunity to test the Annan defence & test it they did carrying hard into the Annan defence with some strong running & good hands after a bit of sustained pressure Annan turned the ball over & drove away from their own line, from a clean ruck stand off Mally kicked clear & with the opposition fullback & winger unsure who was claiming the ball Annan's Pocket Rocket Kirsty Barlow burst between them plucking the ball from above her head to race in from 65 metres out scoring under the posts to give my an easy conversion.
As with the previous 3 games between the two teams another try fest was on the cards, when straight from the kick off Annan were penalised & from a quick tap the Uni Ladies opened their account with a try quickly followed by a 2nd.
The end to end entertainment continued with Annan back on the attack scoring another two tries before half time from livewire Scrum half Nicole Barlow both converted by Mally.
Half time score: Glasgow Uni Ladies 17 v Annan Warriors 31
So, knowing the Uni team would not lie down Annan kicked off the 2nd half determined to continue their good form in attack & strengthen their defence to take control of the game.
Annan's linespeed in defence brought mistakes from the opposition & Annan surged forward mixing play up across the field for Nicole Barlow to score her 3rd & hat-trick try.
With both teams starting to tire defences started to be broken slightly easier & from one of these breaks Annan broke from inside their own half with good interplay from the outside backs leading to stand off Mally looping round to take the final pass off Kirsty Barlow to score in the corner.
The final Warriors score of the game went to Annan with Kirsty Barlow not to be out done by her big sister scored her 2nd score when she broke up the wing to step inside the fullback to dot it down.
So, moving into the final part of the game Annan began to take the foot off the gas & allowed Glasgow Uni to apply pressure with their number 7 showing a lovely dummy which through 2 Annan players to score a consolation score.
Final Score: Glasgow Uni Ladies 29 v Annan Warriors 46
A much-improved performance from the Warriors with both backs & forwards working hard in attack & defence scoring some good tries & still left a couple out on the pitch with centre Eilidh Henderson denied twice by the referees call where a TMO would have probably been able to give the score.
Forward of the match went to Nadine Barnes
Back of the match went to Kirsty Barlow
Special mention to Annan Hornet Caitlin Ritchie who made her debut for the Warriors & showed that she is more than ready to play at senior level.
Also, on Sunday fellow Hornet Lily Glendinning made her debut in the blue of Scotland playing for Scotland U18s, hopefully the 1st of many caps.
Annan team: N Barnes, M Alexander, E Jardine, K Warrick, C Clark, L Moffat, A McWilliam, C Barnes (capt), N Barlow, M McGeoch, R Armstrong, E Henderson, C O'Connell, K Barlow, K Taylor
Replacements: J Park, C Ritchie, M Parker, M Ker
Next Game Sunday 10th March against Ardrossan Ladies 2pm KO @ Violetbank
FRIENDLY
17TH FEBRUARY 2019
BIT RUSTY BUT THE WARRIORS ATILL WIN
Report by Colin Warrick ( Match Highlights)
So, for the 1st time in 2019 & after 3 months off the Warriors heading to pastures new to play a friendly against the current National Two champions Kelso Ladies.
The Warriors kicked off playing into a brisk breeze which as expected was sure to test the Warriors game plan & ability to get into their game after the off season. With Kelso having played consecutive games in the last 5 weeks against various opponents they got into their game early & pressed Annan in both attack & defence, forcing Annan back into their own half.
From a turnover deep in the Warriors 22 Annan surged into attack with big carries from the Clark sisters, the Barnes sisters & Kayleigh Warrick breaking out of the 22 charging upfield. After several phases the ball went left & right with Kirsty Barlow making good ground out wide before the ball was recycled for Abbie Clark to burst over from close range. The half continued to play out in similar fashion with the Warriors defence holding firm against attack upon attack from Kelso, with spells of Annan attack making good ground but failing to convert a couple of opportunities.
Half time score: Kelso Ladies 0 v Annan Warriors 5
With the breeze on their backs it was hoped that the Warriors would shake off the rust & gain control of the game against a well drilled physical Kelso side.
With Annan making a number of changes to try new combinations it took the Warriors a while to get onto their game & in the 65th minute Llly Glendinning playing her 1st Warriors game at the age of only 17 scored the 2nd try after stepping inside a defender & then with calmness belying her years beat another two defenders in the dead ball area to score under the posts giving Mall an easy conversion.
Full time score: Kelso Ladies 0 v Annan Warriors 12
All in all you could see that the Warriors hadn't played a game with usual control, speed & accuracy missing from their performance. Giving them plenty to work on before the start of their Sarah Beaney Cup journey on the 3rd of March against Glasgow Uni Ladies.
Forward of the match went to Kayleigh Warrick, back of the match went to Nicole Barlow both of which worked tirelessly in attack & defence.
A big thanks to Kelso for the game & after match hospitality & certainly can be sure that they are a team on the up who will do well in their Cup & League campaigns. We look forward to welcoming them to Violetbank for a return fixture in the future.
Annan Squad: Eilidh Jardine, Megan Alexander, Julie Dalgliesh, Kayleigh Warrick, Abbie Clark, Correy Clark, Nadine Barnes, Chelsea Barnes ©, Nicole Barlow, Malvina McGeoch, Lorna Vevers, Eilidh Henderson, Ciara O'Connell, Kirsty Barlow, Kim Taylor, Lindsay Kyle, Ashley Clark, Linden Moffat, Jenny Park, Lily Glendinning, Megan Ker, Abbi Armstrong,
MIRAGE CONFERENCE
18TH NOVEMBER 2018
MIXED FORTUNES FOR THE TEAMS
U15 Match Report by Neil "Belly" Bell
Annan Hornets played their 8th league game of the season against Murrayfield Wanderer on Sunday at Violetbank.
Murrayfield and Annan are sitting equal points in the Mirage League, so there was some pride and bragging rights to play for.
The Hornets kicked off and first on the scoresheet was Murrayfield. At the restart Annan scored straight away from Amelia Szelag.
This seemed to get the Hornets going. In the past the Hornets would take a step back, and let the opposition back in the game. Annan Hornets were moving the ball about and being more confident competing at the breakdown. The Hornets were next on the score from Zoe the bolt Mitchell (new nickname for you Zoe!!)
Next on the score getting her 1st try since moving up from the Minis was Niamh Ross.
Murrayfield were next to score The Hornets were next to score from Zoe the Bolt !!
At start of the second half Murrayfield scored and the conversion added
Next to score for The Hornets was Niamh Ross who broke a tackle and ran 60 metres to score. Murrayfield scored 2 more tries. Score now was 29-24 to Annan Hornets were next to score through Amelia Szelag who ran a good 50 metre along the wing to put the ball under the post Lucy Stevenson added the conversion. So with 10 minutes to play Murrayfield starting charging towards the Hornets try line and reap their awards with a try and conversion. Murrayfield were next score and convert so with the scores tied at 36 all and few minutes to play.
The Hornets knew that they needed to score to win this match and both teams battle for winning rights. So with the last play Zoe the bolt Mitchell picked up a loose pass from her own half and ran 70 metres to score under the post. Lucy Stevenson added the conversion.So congratulations girls on your first home win.
Everyone played well today and we are starting to play better as s team and take on whats been learned at training. Tackling has improved over the weeks and at the rucking.
Murrayfield picked our Captain Lucy Stevenson as girl of the match well done Lucy. Annan coaches picked Niamh Ross
Many thanks to Murrayfield for traveling down and giving us a good game of rugby .
Thanks to Gordon Carmichael for refereeing and the mums for volunteering to do the grubber and feed the players
Well done Hornets. Training now at Galabank on Wednesday night 7-8pm. See you then Belly
Finally, the U15 Hornets hope for a speedy recovery to Kirsty Cooper who broken her fibula and also to Rhiana Parker from her concussion.
U18 Match Report by: Colin "Choc" Warrick
On a bright sunny morning the Hornets took to the field for their final game in the League phase of this seasons Mirage conference.
Once again, the game was played as a development game with Annan only able to field 11 players, however the girls kicked off with confidence looking for the victory. The game started at a pace with both teams having a fair amount of possession & both defences being tested.
Annan had the 1st chance with centre Lexi Steel making a break down the touchline before a cracking cover tackle took her into touch.
It was Murrayfield who were 1st to trouble the referees scorecard when from a kick n chase the Wandies player won the footrace to score. Not to be outdone Annan went straight on the attack from the kick off when once more Lexi Steel broke down the wing following good interplay from the Glendinning sisters Lily & Lexi only for once more a cover tackle to save the day.
The game looked that it was going to be a tight one until from a charge by a Wandies forward a couple of tackles were missed & they stormed over for their 2nd which was quickly followed by their 3rd to extent their lead.
On the stroke of half time from a scrum centre Ellie Henderson burst through a tackle in the midfield to burst clear & score from about 40 metres out.
Half time score: Hornets 5 v Murrayfield 19
With hooker Rhianna Parker- Clevett having to retire with concussion at half time the 2nd half was played 10 a side & the half kicked off with the Hornets still looking to get a foothold in the game.
Annan through their all at the Wandies defence time after time only for their attacks being repelled by the strong tackling Wandies girls.
After 10 minutes of the 2nd half the opposition increased their lead with three quick tries, all being converted & this seemed to be major blow to the Hornets confidence with Wandies now 35 points on the lead.
However, Annan stuck to their guns & tried their best to break the Murrayfield defensive line only for the ball to go loose & collected by the Wandies centre who romped home from half way.
With Annan noticeably tiring, & Murrayfield having the benefit of a couple of extra players the gaps began to widen, & tackles missed for Wandies to score 3 more tries.
With the game coming towards the end Annan finally got a break when from a turnover they burst up the field with the ball being recycled on several occasions for standoff Jenna Patterson to dive over from close range.
The game kicked off again with only a minute or two to go & Annan recycled the ball and went on the charge again the ball being fed through numerous sets of hands only for a knock on near the Wandies line. Unfortunately, in the lead up scrum half Kirsty Cooper was tackled & fell awkwardly breaking a bone in her leg.
Final score: Hornets 10 v Murrayfield 66
Another valiant effort by the Annan girls whose effort can not be faulted, & with continued work can & will only improve.
Best for Annan were Lexi Steel, Ellie Henderson with player of the match going to Kirsty Cooper
Annan Team: Nic Murray, Rhianna Parker-Clevett, Megan Muir, Lily Glendinning, Caitlin Ritchie ©, Kirsty Cooper, Jenna Patterson, Lexi Glendinning, Ellie Henderson, Lexi Steel, Emily Hunter
TENNENT'S PREMIER LEAGUE B
11TH NOVEMBER 2018
WARRIORS GO DOWN....JUST
Report by Colin Warrick (Match Photos (opens in a new tab) / Match Highlights)
So the for the first time in league business the Warriors made the short trip to Greenlaw to face local rivals the Stewartry Sirens in the Warriors final game of their journey into Tennents Womens Premier League.
The game kicked off following both teams showing their respects during a two minutes silence to mark armistice day.
The game kicked off at a fair old lick with both teams throwing everything at each other in attack & defence. With defences on top, the game was tooed & froed between the 22s until in the 20th minute Stewartry broke free to score out wide following a couple of missed tackles.
The Annan side kicked off determined to get back into the game & recovered the ball from the kick off to throw attack upon attack at the Sirens defence, following numerous penalties for high tackles the referee yellow carded the Sirens 3 which allowed Annan to maintain their upper hand before the ball was hacked clear.
The half continued along a similar theme within again assisted by back to back penalties for high tackles pushed hard towards the Sirens line before an attempted miss pass was intercepted by the Sirens 13 who set off racing towards the Annan line before being caught & tackled by Warriors winger Rachel Armstrong with a cover tackle of immense proportions.
With Stewartry getting a nudge on at the scrum they managed to turnover the ball for the ball to be moved blind for the winger to burst two tackles to score out wide, with stand off Ritchie converting with a cracking kick.
Half time score: Stewartry Sirens 12 v Annan Warriors 0
So refreshed & still confident of turning round the 12 point deficit set about the task with the intensity & physicality that is becoming a part of the Warriors traits.
Following big carries from both forwards & backs the Warriors pushed hard into the Sirens 22 with 2nd row Abbie Clark forcing her way over from 10 metres for once without use of her now trademark hand off, conversion coming from Mally McGeoch.
The Warriors were on the charge with their tails up looking for another score, the games intensity increased with both teams repelling each others attacks time & time again. Going into the final 10 minutes of the game Stewartry dealt what turned out to be the killer blow to the Annan hopes when following yet another carry & break of a tackle but the Sirens 8 the ball was offloaded for the try to be scored in the corner.
Still undaunted the Warriors went for broke throwing the kitchen sink & all the dishes in a final attempt to breach the opposition defence & following several phases the ball was driven into the 22, where from yet another penalty the Warriors drove close for flanker Correy Clark to drive over from 5 meters out with the final whistle blowing following the conversion from Mally McGeoch.
Final Score - Stewartry Sirens 17 v Annan Warriors 14
Overall the Warriors gave their best all round performance, but it wasn't to be.
Very difficult to single out individuals but the forwards were led by the Barnes sisters Captain Chelsea & Vice captain Nadine & also the Warriors twin towers sisters Abbie & Correy Clark but forward of the match went to Kayleigh Warrick whose workrate throughout in attack & defence was immense.
In the backs scrum half Nicole Barlow & standoff Mally McGeoch steered the team around the park, Kim Taylor at fullback gave her best performance of the season but back of the match went to the centre Ciara O'Connell.
So with the Warriors adventure in the Premier League now over they can be proud of the efforts given in every game finishing what looks like 6th in the league which is a credit.
The transition season is now over with the new structure starting with the Sarah Beaney cup in March followed by the Warriors taking their place in the new National One league.
A big thanks to the supporters who made the trip along the A75
Annan Team: N Barnes, M Alexander, E Jardine, Abbie Clark, K Warrick, C Clark, L Moffat, C Barnes (Capt), N Barlow, M McGeoch, R Armstrong, A Armstrong, C O'Connell, E Henderson, K Taylor
Replacements: L Kyle, J Dalgliesh, N Dobie, K Barlow, L Vevers. (all used)
TENNENT'S PREMIER LEAGUE B
28TH OCTOBER 2018
GREAT WIN FOR THE WARRIORS
Report by Colin Warrick (Match Photos (opens in a new tab) / Match Highlights)
So for the final time in the transition season the Warriors took to the field at a sunny but chilly Violetbank to play their final home game in the Tennent's SRU Womens Premier League against Cartha Ladies who they had secured their only win so far just over a month ago, & it was hoped that the game would be as high scoring the 2nd time around.
Annan kicked off playing away from the clubhouse & into the afternoon sun, heading straight into action determined to make their mark early on.
With only 4 minutes on the clock from a scrum on the edge of the opposition 22 the ball was fed to 2nd row Abbie Clark who surged forward handing off the defence with her now customary hand offs to score behind the posts, the try converted by Mally McGeoch.
From the kick off the Warriors failed to secure the ball, before it was knocked on giving the scrum to Cartha. With their sharp backs running an extravagant move which bamboozled the Warriors defence for their full back to score, the try again converted.
With both teams now level the game to and fro'd like the previous encounter at Dumbreck with both teams going hell for leather in both attack & defence.
It wasn't until the 34th minute of the half that the scoreboard was troubled again when following a period of quality defending from the Warriors the ball went loose from a Cartha pass only for Correy Clark reacting as quickly as a seagull on a chip to snap the ball up surge through the 1st tackle & round the full back to score behind the posts making the subsequent conversion for stand off Mally McGeoch.
Half time score: Annan Warriors 14 v Cartha Ladies 7
The Warriors retook the field with the determination to iron out a couple of technical issues & maintain the high intensity & physicality that they had shown in the 1st half.
The 2nd half followed a similar vain to the 1st with both teams throwing the kitchen sink at each other with the Warriors defence repelling the dangerous Cartha runners, with the tackle count particularly high from Kayleigh Warrick, Chelsea Barnes, Mally McGeoch & Ciara O'Connell, with both Correy Clark & Kim Taylor making cover tackles that saved almost certain tries.
From a scrum on the Annan 22, No 8 Chelsea Barnes surged from the back of the scrum eating up the yards before being hauled down, Annan moved the ball through several more phases with both forwards & backs carried hard before Cartha were penalised. From the quick tap the ball was moved at pace through the hands for winger to cut through the Cartha defence like a hot knife through butter to romp in from half way scoring behind the posts giving Mally McGeoch an easy conversion.
So with 3/4 of the game gone Annan held a 14 point lead & truth be told should have been more as from another quick penalty Annan burst through the line with Allana McWilliam beating the last tackle & passing to winger Lorna Vevers who unfortunately couldn't hold onto the ball & the chance was gone.
The final score of the game came from a Cartha line-out where Chelsea Barnes stole the ball & set out on the attack, with Annan carrying hard the ball went through 5 phases for the final scoring pass being given to Jane Stewart who scored her 89th try in only 44 Warriors games. For the statisticians among you thats more than two tries a game.
Final score: Annan Warriors 26 v Cartha Ladies 7
So with that the Warriors trip into the Premier league ended at Violetbank with a performance that showed how far the Warriors have improved through the season.
Hard to pick out individuals in the forwards with every player making a significant contribution in attack & defence, special mention to Lindsay Kyle who made her long awaited return from injury to play in the Premier League, forward of the match went to Megan Alexander.
In the backs again hard to pick out individuals but 9 & 10 Nicole Barlow & Mally McGeoch controlled the game & steered the Warriors round the pitch. Ciara O'Connell was outstanding in defence at 13 & speedster Jane Stewart looked back to her best on the wing, but the back of the match went to Eilidh Henderson who in her 1st season of senior rugby is showing what an asset to the squad she is.
Annans next game is against local rivals the Stewartry Sirens at Greenlaw on the 11th November where the Warriors hope to reverse the scoreline from the game at Violetbank.
Annan Team: M Parker, M Alexander, N Barnes, Abbie Clark, K Warrick, C Clark, A McWilliam, C Barnes (Capt), N Barlow, M McGeoch, J Stewart, A Armstrong, C O'Connell, E Henderson, K Taylor
Subs (all used): J Dalgliesh, L Kyle, L Moffat, R Armstrong, L Vevers
MIRAGE LEAGUE
7TH OCTOBER 2018
GREAT RUGBY ON SHOW
U15 Report by Neil Bell
Annan U15 Hornets travelled to Glasgow to play Cartha Queen's Park in the Mirage League.
The Hornets came with 11 players as some players picked up injuries from Thursday school games.
The girls decided to play a 11 a side and Annan chose to kick off. First over the try line was Cartha prop who ran through a few of the Hornets tackles.
It took the Hornets another try before they woke up and started to pass the ball about and start competing at the tackles and actually winning some balls at the tackles.
Annan lost their Captain Lucy Stevenson 5 mins before half time due to injury so with a change of position and Sarah Hunter going to scrum half.
Just before the half time Sarah actually broke a tackle and ran half the pitch to put the ball down at the back of the scoring zone only to put it out of play.
At the start of the 2nd half within 2 mins of play the Hornets lost Sarah to injury so with only 9 players left it was decided to play a development game, Annan conceding the game 40-0.
The hosts gave us 5 players so we played 14 a side. Annan were getting tired so with 10 minutes left we called it a day. Losing 29-0 Cartha picked Ayda Chierchia as player of the match which she deserved.
Also a special mention to Jenna Williamson playing her first match as a Hornet since moving up from the Tigers.
So no game for a few weeks now and already training sessions are being planned on what we need work on.
Team today was: Ayda Chierchia, Abby Notman, Lucy Templeton, Skye Watret, Eva Graham, Lucy Stevenson (capt) Sarah Hunter, Emilia Szlelag, Erin Ewing, Niamh Ross, Jenna Williamson
Coach: Neil Bell
U18 Report to follow
MIRAGE LEAGUE
30TH SEPTEMBER 2018
GREAT PERFORMANCES
U15 Report by Rob McMillan
Hornets rugby returned to Violetbank on Sunday as the U15 girls took on Hillhead Jordanhill in a Mirage conference fixture.
A healthy squad of 15 turned up for the game. Our opponents were only able to field 11 players so it was decided to play a straight 11 aside game.
From the off the Hornets were faced with a big, very well drilled side but they stuck to their tasks well. They managed to hold shape and repel the attacks. Eventually the pressure took its toll and our opponents managed to breach the Hornets line. The Hornets were able to put together some beautiful passages of play. Forwards and backs moving the ball well and trying to get our strike runners into play. Hillhead continued to press the Annan lines and kept the score board ticking over at a regular rate in their favour.
A highlight of the first half was Annans sole try that came from a great team move that freed up Erin Ewing to go over in the corner (in the coaches opinion it was the best try of the game - but we were wearing Hornet tinted specs)
Plus point going forward - this was the coaches first view of the U15's in action and there seems to be a lot of potential. Captain Lucy Stevenson lead the team well, new comers Ayda and Niamh fitted in seamlessly and did not look out of place. Strong running from Zoe, Olivia and Isla. Nice link play from Sarah.
The forwards, always looking to go forward, Nice work from Abi, Kara in the front row (hard shift put in) Good mobility from Skye, Lucy T, Eve and Eva covering a lot of ground.
Final word for Emilia in the centre, after a slow start and a confidence kickstart produced a storming game with strong ball carrying and tackling, exactly what you would want from a centre - she was the coaches player of the day - to be fair all the girls were in contention but Emilia just edged it.
Negative point if any - need to work on fitness levels , when the stamina goes so do the skills so more and more errors creep in.
Well done Hornets, myself and Callum will step in any time to help after the good commitment shown
Thanks to the grubber staff for feeding the teams, to AJ for another great refereeing display .
Hornets Team: Emilia Szelag, Niamh Ross, Isla Cooper, Olivia McQueen, Zoe Mitchell, Erin Ewing, Eva Graham, Sarah Hunter, Lucy Stevenson (Capt), Abby Notman, Ayda Chierchia, Kara Jamieson, Skye Watret, Eve Jackson and Lucy Templeton
Coaches:- Callum Patterson, Rob McMillan
U18 Report by Billy Henderson
On Sept 30th, Annan U18 Hornets played Hillhead Jordanhill at Violetbank. Annan had 9 girls available so opted to play 9 a side with Hills having 4 subs, meaning it was always going to be a hard game.
Annan started strongly but lost a few balls during contact which resulted in Hills scoring 2 early tries however after that we were able to drive back over the ball and out to our backs.
Annan's first try came from Lily Glendinning robbing the ball from hills before feeding it to the supporting Katie sherry who fed it to Lexi Steel who gave it to the captain, Caitlin Richie before going to ground which was then secured by strong rucking from Emily hunter and Jenna Patterson which enabled Kirsty Cooper to pass out to Lexi Steel who brought in several defenders before going to ground which was well secured by Megan Muir which allowed Kirsty to pop the ball to Emily hunter before a well-timed pass to Lexi Glendinning, allowing her to run 60 yards with 3 hills players in hot pursuit before scoring the first try.
Annan's next try came from a home scrum well in Annan's half. A nice pass from Kirsty to Jenna Patterson coming around from open to blindside to draw opposition before passing it to Lexi Steel who had the whole other team chasing her before scoring her first try of the game.
Annan's third score came from another scrum to Annan in the opposite 22. Kirsty passed to Jenna coming from the blindside to open side before passing it out to Lexi steel to take contact which was then continued by a pick and go by Emily Hunter to feed to Lily Glendinning who made some good strong ground which was followed by Jenna with great clearing out skills. Catlin then made some more yards which brought in a few of their players before a pick and go by Kirsty who was then tackled however popped it up to Lexi steel who then continued to score.
Annan 4th try was from another Annan scrum in their 22. It was passed to Jenna who came round to the open side with determination before bashing through their defence to almost score. Kirsty with a quick pick up and dash down for her try
The 5th try came from a line out win from Catlin through to Kirsty and Lexi G before passing out to Lexi steel who with hard and direct running broke through their defensive line to score her 3rd try winning her man of the match.
Annan have a small squad of players and most weekends girls have to play out of position. This week 5 girls had to do so; Katie moving from wing to second row; Megan from second row to prop; Emily from centre to prop; lily wing forward to hooker and Jenna from centre to stand off.
In all honesty every girl worked hard and played with a greater determination that I have not been previously seen and as a coach I can't ask for any more than that.
As a side note the Scotland girls coach was in attendance and expressed his appreciation to the girls skill and work rate.
Final Score: Hornets 27 v Hillhead Jordanhill 42
TENNENT'S PREMIER LEAGUE
30TH SEPTEMBER 2018
DERBY DEFEAT FOR THE WARRIORS
Report by Colin Warrick (Match Photos (opens in a new tab) / Match Highlights)
Annan Warriors took on the Stewartry Sirens for the first time in a competitive time at Violetbank in their penultimate game of the pre-split fixtures in the Tennents Womens Premier League on a high following their 1st win of the season against Cartha last week.
With a full squad of 20 for the first time this season the Warriors were keen to make their mark.
The game kicked off with Annan playing away from the clubhouse & into a brisk breeze, the game started well for Annan pinning the Stewartry team in their own half for the 1st 5 mins before their big strong running number 8 going on the charge breaking tackles & leaving the Warriors bodies in her wake, the ball being recycled for Stewartry to score in the corner to take the lead.
Not to be outdone from the kick Annan stuck to the task & following a turnover & a 1 or 2 surges forward Abbie Clark burst over in the corner to score the equalising try. For the remainder of the half the game tooed & froed with Stewartry having the rub of the green to collect a loose ball & score their 2nd try taking the lead once more.
Half time: Annan Warriors 5 v Stewartry Sirens 10
With the breeze in their favour Annan started the 2nd half with the hope of a better performance that would allow them to get back on terms. As was the pattern in the 1st half Annan struggled to contend with the strong running Sirens forwards & also the guile of the experienced Sirens 10 who controlled the game.
Stewartry scored a quick try when once more the opposition number 8 breenged through the Annan defence taking them close to the line for the ball to recycled & moved through a couple of hands to score.
The question was would this kick the Warriors into action on the hunt for a comeback win. With forwards Kayleigh Warrick & Allana McWilliam & centre Lorna Vevers carrying hard Annan pushed forward when following a series of penalties Abbie Clark crashed over for her 2nd try.
So with 10 minutes to go Annan were 14 points down, but alas Stewartry put the nail in the Warriors coffin when an Annan pass went astray the ball was hacked through to be picked up & passed to Sirens scrumhalf who was able to squeeze past Annan full back Kim Taylor with the assist of a sneaky pullback by their number 8 which the ref unfortunately missed, Oh for a TMO.
Final Score: Annan Warriors 10 v Stewartry Sirens 31
All in all a disappointing performance by the Warriors who seem to show too much respect to the Sirens.
Best of the forwards were Allana McWilliam & Chelsea Barnes with forward of the match going to Kayleigh Warrick
Best of the backs were Nicole Barlow & Eilidh Henderson with back of the match going to Lorna Vevers.
As is the Warriors way its onwards & upwards to the last game of the league against Murrayfield Wanderers before the league splits, with plenty to work on at training.
Annan Warriors team: Marie Parker, Megan Alexander, Eilidh Jardine, Abbie Clark, Kayleigh Warrick, Correy Clark, Allana McWilliam, Chelsea Barnes (Capt), Nicole Barlow, Ciara O'Connell, Rachel Armstrong, Abbi Armstrong, Jane Stewart, Lorna Vevers, Kim Taylor
Replacements: Ashley Clark, Linden Moffat, Julie Dalgliesh, Eilidh Henderson, Kirsty Barlow
MIRAGE LEAGUE
23RD SEPTEMBER 2018
U15 AND U18 HORNETS WIN
U15 Report by Neil Bell / U18 Report to follow
Annan Hornets travelled to Ayr to play their third game of the season in The Mirage League.
The Hornets had arrived with 12 players and Ayr only had 10 players so the Hornets agreed to play the same numbers. Annan were first on the score sheet with a try from Erin Ewing. This got the hornets confidence going but at the same time it also riled up Ayr who scored from the tap off.
This was much of how the game was played but there was some good rugby being played by both teams. Annan were passing the ball about much better than previous weeks, using the width of the pitch. This lead to Zoe Mitchell getting her 1st try in her first every game for the Hornets!! Well done Zoe
I think try of the day had to come from The Hornets. With Annan having a scrum in their 22, Stand off Sarah Hunter kicked out, leading Shannon Reed to pick up the loose ball and the Hornets in support to pass to Zoe for her 2nd try.
All girls played really well today. A few mentions must go to Captain Lucy Stevenson who leads by great example today by always being in support of her players and communicating well. Sarah Hunter who also worked hard and is growing in confidence in her stand off role. I better mention she also scored 4 tries and got girl of the match!
All girls gave 110% and never gave up even as Ayr scored in the dying second of the game under the post the girls chased the kick down. Next Game at Home on Sunday 30th against Hillhead Jordanhill
Hornets scorers: Sarah Hunter (4T) Erin Ewing (1T) Eve Jackson (1T) Zoe Mitchell (2T) and Lucy Stevenson converted 5 tries
TENNENT'S PREMIER LEAGUE
23RD SEPTEMBER 2018
FIRST WIN FOR THE WARRIORS
Report by Colin Warrick (Match Highlights)
For the final time before the split in the Tennents Womens Premier League Annan Warriors travelled up the M74 to face Cartha Ladies at Dumbreck with confidence high after a good performance even in defeat against Watsonians Ladies last week.
The conditions couldnt have been better for a free flowing game of rugby & the small crowd wasn' to be disappointed.
The game kicked off with Annan playing up the slight hill & into the wind, a big effort was needed from the start to attempt to take control of the game.
Straight from the kick off Annan pressed the Cartha Ladies knocking back the attack & from a turnover swept into attack, moving the ball wide quickly to the wing with Jane & Rachel eating up the yards into the Cartha 22, with subsequent carries from 2nd rows Kayleigh & Abbie driving clos to the line for the ball to moved blind for Jane to sneak in at the corner ending her two week try drought.
A great start for the Warriors & the confidence was there to see, this was quickly curbed as when straight from the kick off Cartha recovered the ball & charged on with their strong running 8 making big yards to score.
For the next 10 minutes Annan had to quell attack upon attack from Cartha before from a scrum within 10 metres from their line No. 8 Chelsea Barnes picked from the back of a scrum & burst up field, from the proceeding ruck the ball was moved wide for Jane to storm away from the Cartha defence to score her 2nd of the day. As with previous weeks the game started to follow a pattern with Cartha again recovering the kick off & breaking several tackles to score & convert their 2nd try.
Once again almost straight from the kick Cartha put the Warriors under pressure only for a good counter ruck gaining a turnover & the Warriors again went on the charge making yards at will only for in almost the act of scoring the ball was stripped from Kayleigh Warricks hands, the ball being kicked clear right into Correy Clarks hands who charged forward through contact again the ball being quickly recycled & moved wide for Jane to score her hat trick try within 25 minutes.
Both teams seemed to catch breath for a bit & the game was played within the middle parts of the pitch with both teams battling hard to make yards, then all of a sudden the game kicked into life once more with only a couple of minutes remaining in the half Jane intercepted a stray Cartha pass to surge towards her 4th try only to be cut down just short but two quick passes later the galloping Correy Clark scored behind the posts.
Again, as seemed to be for most of the half Cartha replied almost immediately with a score with Annan returning the favour by doing the same with 2nd row Abbie Clark getting her 1st of the day galloping in from just inside the Cartha half.
Half time score: Cartha Ladies 19 v Annan Warriors 25
So, with half the job done & having been urged to tighten up the defence the Warriors stepped out for the 2nd half.
The 2nd half started poorly for the Warriors with Cartha scoring a converted try to take the lead & then further the lead by converting a penalty. This seemed to spur the Warriors into action & it certainly was with a bang.
From a quick tap penalty the ball was moved through the hands of Captain Chelsea, 2nd row Kayleigh & into the hands of the long striding Abbie Clark who scored under the posts, the try converted by Mally McGeoch who had obviously put her boots on the correct feet for the 2nd half.
Straight from the kick off & with ball going loose Cartha were penalised deep in the Annan 22, & without a thought the ball was tapped & on the move again Annan going wide early recycling the ball time & time again for Abbie Clark to charge onto a break by scrum half Nicole Barlow to storm away for her hat trick, converted by Mally.
The two quick tries seemed to spur the Warriors on once more & with their defence becoming more watertight they put the game out of reach. Following a series of penalties Annan pressed once more with Allana McWilliam latching onto a pass to score again being converted by Mally.
Straight from the kick off the ball being cleanly caught by Kayleigh Warrick who drew the defender feeding Chelsea Barnes who in turn drew a defender to feed Jane to stormed clear to score her 4th from inside the Annan 22, with Mally kicking her 4th conversion.
With the game beyond reach the Cartha ladies had the final say scoring a final try in this tryfest of a game.
Final score: Cartha Ladies 41 v Annan Warriors 53
So Annan Warriors finally broke their Premier League duck at the 5th attempt finally gaining the rewards of the effort they have put in this season.
With every player in the squad of 18 & supporter Ayda playing their part.
Best in the forwards were Kayleigh Warrick, Allana McWilliam, Correy Clark & Chelsea Barnes who worked hard all day but forward of the match going to hat trick scorer Abbie Clark.
In the backs Scrum half Nicole Barlow & Stand off Mally McGeoch steering the team well, centre Abbi Armstrong coming back to form after injury with Kim Taylor solid once more at full back, back of the match went to 4 try heroine Jane Stewart.
Also a mention to Megan Ker who made her Warriors debut.
Onto the next game with a great deal of confidence & enthusiasm which just happens to be the local derby with Stewartry Sirens at Violetbank, which promises to be a good game.
Annan Team: Marie Parker, Megan Alexander, Eilidh Jardine, Abbie Clark, Kayleigh Warrick, Correy Clark, Allana McWilliam, Chelsea Barnes (Capt), Nicole Barlow, Mally McGeogh, Rachel Armstrong, Abbi Armstrong, Jane Stewart, Lorna Vevers, Kim Taylor
Replacements (all used): Ashley Clark, Megan Ker, Kirsty Barlow
TENNENT'S PREMIER LEAGUE
16TH SEPTEMBER 2018
BETTER PERFORMANCE FROM THE WARRIORS
Report by Colin Warrick (Match Photos (opens in a new tab) / Match Highlights ))
The Warriors welcomed Watsonians Ladies to Violetbank for their 2nd home game in the Tennents Premier League.
After having been unable to field a team last week due to a catalogue of injuries & unavailability the Warriors welcomed back Kayleigh Warrick & Megan Alexander to the squad with Megan having the unenviable task in only her 2nd game at hooker of playing against one of Scotlands 8 Professional Women Players Lana Skeldon. The game started with the Warriors playing into a stiff breeze & couldnt have started in a worse way with Watsonians scoring a converted try after 41 seconds. No to be outdone & with the Warrior spirit that has become part of this team the Warriors brushed it aside & tried to make their mark on the game.
From the kick off Watsonians pushed again & from a turnover at the back of a scrum from Nicole Barlow the ball was moved quickly through the backs hands for full back to make the 1st charge through the opposition defence, with the ball recycled quickly Abbie Clark surged forward offloading in contact to sister Correy Clark who in turn offloaded to Allana McWilliam all within their own 1/3 of the pitch, with a mix of ball being offloaded in contact, good swift hands & efficient quick rucks the Warriors ate up the ground for 2nd row to burst onto the ball just inside the opposition half to hand off the remaining two defenders & win the race to the try line scoring under the posts with the conversion being kicked by Mally McGeoch.
All this within the 1st five minutes so the crowd were being royally entertained.
The Warriors retained the kick off & went on the charge again with renewed confidence, only to after several phases lose the ball with the Watsonians 10 driving their team forward to score two quick tries, to extend their lead to 7-17.
For the remainder of the 1st half both teams had opportunities to score but good scramble defence saved the day with the whistle going the half time score Annan Warriors 7 v Watsonians Ladies 17.
With the elements behind them the Warriors kicked off hoping to get a bigger foothold in the game in search for further scores to bring the score closer. The 2nd half followed a similar vain to the 1st with both teams going hard at each other & defences nullifying each other out. The Watsonians replacement number 8 giving them some major go forward breaking the Warriors line at will to set up one try & score a 2nd herself.
Not to be outdone the Warriors kept going & charged full on into the Watsonians team, from a pressurised clearance kick from the Watsonians 10, Annan fullback Kim Taylor fielded the ball then went on the attack beating the 1st defender before passing to supporting 2nd row Abbie Clark who charged through the Watsonians defence with three now trade mark hand offs to score her 2nd try of the game, again converted by Mally.
So, with 20 minutes to go Annan were 15 points down & with renewed confidence still hoped to claw their way back on the scorecard. With both teams pushing hard, the game went back & forwards, Watsonians gained the upper hand as the Annan team tired scoring a further 4 tries before the final whistle.
Full time score: Annan Warriors 14 v Watsonian Ladies 55
The score didnt truly reflect the game with the Warriors giving by far their best performance of the season pushing their far more experienced opponents hard in both attack & defence.
Best in the forwards were Nadine Barnes, Correy Clark & Allana McWilliam with forward of the match going to two try scoring 2nd row Abbie Clark. In the backs Mally McGeoch, Ciara O'Connell & Kirsty Barlow stood out with full back Kim Taylor winning back of the match. So onwards to this week with an away trip to play Cartha QP Ladies hopefully with another couple of bodies back into the fold & another hard week at training under their belts.
Annan Team: Nadine Barnes, Megan Alexander, Eilidh Jardine, Abbie Clark, Correy Clark, Linden Moffat, Allana McWilliam, Chelsea Barnes, Nicole Barlow, Mally McGeoch, Rachel Armstrong, Abbi Armstrong, Ciara O'Connell, Kirsty Barlow, Kim Taylor
Replacements: Kayleigh Warrick, Julie Dalgliesh
TENNENT'S PREMIER LEAGUE
2ND SEPTEMBER 2018
ANOTHER TOUGH GAME FOR THE WARRIORS
Report by Colin Warrick (Match Photos (opens in a new tab) / Match Highlights )
The Warriors set off to Edinburgh to face Corstorphine Cougars on a damp Sunday morning only to find it to be a glorious day on arrival at Union Park.
Buoyed by a larger squad of players the Warriors hoped to see an improved performance & hopefully gain a win.
The Warriors kicked off deep into the Cougars half but straight from the kick off & unusually for the Warriors the linespeed & intensity in defence seemed to be missing, the early exchanges were fairly even until the Cougars 8 slipped a tackle to burst through the Annan defence, the ball was recycled quickly & the 1st try of the game was scored in the corner.
From the kick off again deep into opposition territory the Cougars returned once more gaining yards into the still sleepy Annan defence only for a penalty to be conceded on half way by Corstorphine. Mally McGeoch kicked for touch & territory with resulting lineout on the 5m line. From a sharp lineout the ball was riven towards the line by Captain Chelsea Barnes where it was recycled for Abbie Clark to drive over from close range.
With a renewed confidence the Warriors collected the kick to go on the charge once more only to be repelled by the strong opposition defence, the Warriors working hard to string phases together.
The Corstophine team managed to snaffle the ball in the ruck & with a swift counter attack scored out wide once more. The remainder of the half seemed to follow the same trend with Corstorphine scoring a further two tries both from turnovers.
Half time: Corstorphine Cougars 22 v Annan Warriors 5
With optimism the Warriors retook the field for the 2nd half making a couple of changes to freshen up the team hoping to retain the ball for longer periods & with improved line-speed put more pressure on their more experienced opposition.
Alas it was not to be with the Edinburgh side scoring at regular periods throughout the half, the Warriors cause not helped by a dubious Yellow card for centre Jane Stewart.
The one high point of the half was an interception from well within her own half by hooker Allana McWilliam who was caught meters from the line by the speedy Cougars winger.
Final score: Corstorphine Cougars 62 v Annan Warriors 5
Once again the Warriors worked hard throughout the game with the toll of having to make repeat efforts in defence draining the energy by late on. In attack when we controlled possession the Warriors looked dangerous.
Standouts for Annan in the forwards were Allana McWilliam & the Barnes sisters & Mally McGeoch & Jane Stewart in the backs.
Forward of the match went to Chelsea Barnes
Back of the match went to Nicole Barlow.
A special mention to Eilidh Henderson in her 1st game for the Warriors.
It certainly is big test to the Warriors morale but the steep learning curve that is Premier rugby was always going to be testing.
This week the Warriors are on the road once more away to last years Champions Hillhead Jordanhill which will be another tough test especially with a few sore bodies after a tough couple of weeks. But the Warriors will go into it with enthusiasm & put another week of hard work in.
Annan Warriors team: M Parker, A McWilliam, E Jardine, Abbie Clark, C Clark, N Barnes, S Grainger, C Barnes (c), M McGeoch, C O'Connell, A Armstrong, J Stewart, R Armstrong, K Taylor
Subs: L Thompson, E Henderson, L Vevers
MIRAGE LEAGUE
26TH AUGUST 2018
MIXED FORTUNES
U15 Report by Neil Bell
On Sunday, 12 U15 hornets travelled up to Edinburgh to play Lismore in the Mirage League. Due to sat nav error, Annan only had a 10 minute warm up before they were then straight into the game.
Lismore were first to score from the Hornets not committing enough bodies at the breakdown, as Lismore stole a lot of the Hornets possession during the game.
By half time the Hornets were down 42-0 but the girls had been close to scoring a few tries, only for Lismores strong defence and some try saving tackles stopping the Hornets from scoring.
From the start of the 2nd half Annan came out fighting but alas it was Lismore who scored again.
Then Annan got a break with some passing to the right wing Olivia McQueen who ran a good 50 metres to just about score when she got tackled a metre short of the try line by a really high tackle and the referee awarded a penalty try.
For the next 15 mins there was some really good rugby being played. Next to score was Erin Ewing but Lismore had the last say and scored again in the last minute of the game.
Final Score: Lismore 54 v Annan 12
Hornets you are a credit to everyone for not giving up and trying your best. There was some really good rugby being played.
Annan Hornets were: Eva Graham,Kara Jamieson, Eve Jackson, Olivia Marczac, Skye Watret, Lucy Stevenson (capt) Abby Norman, Olivia McQueen, Omelia Szelag, Sarah Hunter, Isla Cooper and Erin Ewing
U18 Hornets Match Report by: Billy Henderson
With a small squad of 8, the U18 Hornets traveled up to Lismore for a development game. The Hornets had very little time to warm up due to Lismores ground being rather hard to find. The Hornets borrowed a player from Lismore to match at 9 a side. Many thanks to Lismore. From the beginning Annan were strong and tried to find gaps and weaknesses upon the opposing team and when Lismore had the ball, Annan were quick to adapt and stop any advances made by the opposition.
With some great tackling from all the team especially Lexie Steel, Kirsty cooper and Lily Glendinning, the Hornets kept Lismore at bay.
Annan scored 10 tries: 3 by Kirsty cooper, 2 by Lily Glendinning, 1 by Lexie Steel, 1 by Lexie, 1 by Emily Hunter, 1 by Ellie Henderson and 1 by Jenna Patterson. Jenna also converted 4 of the tries.
The senior girls that were the stars of the game were: Kirsty Cooper, Lexie Steel and Lily Glendinning with good carrying and determination while attacking the opposition. Kirsty Cooper made great work out of the rucks and mauls.
Katie Sherry, one of our newer player made great improvements in the game and is continuing to become a valued player.
TENNENT'S PREMIER LEAGUE
26TH AUGUST 2018
PREMIER DEBUT FOR THE WARRIORS
Report by Colin Warrick (Match Photos (opens in a new tab) / Match Highlights)
On a very damp Sunday the Annan Warriors made their debut in the Tennent's SRU Womens Premier League against Stirling County.
Having worked hard over preseason following on from winning the Division One title last season the Warriors were up for the challenge ahead, even though a number of players were unavailable due to a combination of injury & other commitments.
Annan kicked off playing away from the clubhouse & were immediately put under pressure from the well drilled more experienced Stirling side. With big carriers across the team the Annan defence was stretched to & fro holding firm for the opening period.
Stirling opened the score after 6 minutes with a well taken try from their powerful centre, not to be outdone following a few big carries by the Annan players they were unlucky not to score in the corner after some good interplay by Jane Stewart & Rachel Armstrong, & some hit ups by the forwards.
Stirling gained the upper hand scoring a further three tries before half time.
Half time score: Annan Warriors 0 v Stirling County 26
After the half break & pep talk the Warriors stepped back onto the field determined to continue the hard work put in in the 1st half.
With the 2nd half underway Stirling scored a couple of quick tries during a period when the Warriors communication dropped.
From the kick off Annan were determined to get back into the game & following an improved period of defence gained a turnover & following a big carry by centre Lorna Vevers the ball was recycle for Jane Stewart to burst through the line & round the full back for her 1st try of the season & continue her league scoring streak scoring at least one try in each of the last 26 league games. This try was converted by Mal McGeoch
As the Annan players tired after their tireless efforts Stirling scored a further 3 tries to put the game beyond doubt. Within the final few minutes from a quick tap penalty the ball was chipped into the Stirling 5 m line for them to concede a penalty which was tapped quickly by hooker Allana McWilliam to dive over for a consolation score.
With the final play of the game Stirling had the final say where there strong running centre burst through to score.
Final score: Annan Warriors 12 v Stirling County 70
A really tough baptism for the Annan ladies against a well drilled physical team, who had the benefit of having a full bench compared to Annans one.
The Warriors defended the hearts out & put in a big 80 minutes shift which am sure will benefit them going forward & the Warriors will improve going forward.
Players of the match went to Allana McWilliam in the forwards & Mally McGeoch & Jane Stewart in the backs & you could have picked any number of players.
Annan Team: M Parker, A McWilliam, E Jardine, Abbie Clark, C Clark, L Moffat, S Grainger, N Barnes (cc), N Barlow, M McGeoch, R Armstrong, L Vevers, J Stewart, K Barlow, K Taylor
Sub: L Thompson
Its onwards & upwards for the Warriors for an away trip to Corstorphine Cougars who went down to Watsonians at the weekend.
FRIENDLY
21ST AUGUST 2018
3 TRY WIN FOR THE WARRIORS
Report by Colin Warrick
In the final act of pre season the Warriors headed off to visit Carlisle Cougars for some valuable game tie in preparation for the start of the Premier League this Sunday. Having lost Caroline Aitken & Lyndsay Kyle to injury away from rugby Annan started with a new look front row & Megan Alexander moving from the backs to play hooker.
The game started of physically with the Carlisle team banging at the Annan door only to be rebuffed by strong Annan defence, after the 1st 10 minutes of rustiness was despatched Annan began stringing together some good play driving the Cougars back into their own half.
From a turnover the ball was shipped wide for Mally McGeoch to weave her way past a couple of defenders to score under the posts, which she converted.
With both teams working hard in both attack & defence but making a few simple errors the game was a bit scrappy with from the Annan point of view more scrums than they wanted. The game continued to to & fro with Annan defending well & attacking well with the ball being recycled quickly to play a high tempo game.
Following another period of play last seasons top try score Jane Stewart got in on the act breaking through the line to step the full back & score under the posts for the 1st of many tries this season I am sure.
The final Annan Score came late on in the final period of the game when after Annan made several breaks & from a scrum standoff dived over from close range & converted the score.
Final score: Carlisle Cougars 0 v Annan Warriors 19
A valuable bit of game time to get the final rustiness out of the systems with lots of positives to be taken, with defence being very pleasing & workrate of players quite high. The scrum which was under pressure & an ultimately injury to Megan Alexander being the only negatives.
Until her injury Megan Alexander showed she is adapting well to hooking role, debuts in the Warriors for Ioni McPherson & Kirsty Barlow & a return for Sarah Grainger to the pack were all good to see.
Thanks to Carlisle for the game & the refreshments afterwards.
So onto the start of the league campaign where Annan face Stirling County Ladies this Sunday at Violetbank in their 1st ever Womens Premier League game, this is a big shorter season due to the reorganisation of Womens rugby so its good start with a home game in front of the Warriors faithful fans.
MOFFAT TENS
28TH JULY 2018
FINAL FOR THE WARRIORS
Report by Colin Warrick (Match Photos (opens in a new tab))
For the 1st team in the new season the Warriors on the road to local neighbours Annual 10s tournament where for the 1st time a Womens tournament would run alongside the long running mens competition.
Unfortunately due to late call offs from Wigtownshire & Biggar only the teams from Stewartry Sirens & Oban Ladies joined the Warriors in a round robin format with each team playing the others 3 times with the top two going forward to the final.
First up for the Warriors was local Premier league rivals the Stewartry Sirens who had players from Carlisle & Greenock helping to swell their numbers. In a very physical closely contested game both teams were evenly matched. With the scores still even going into the last minute a break up the wing from Abbie Clark saw the ball recycled for Sarah Grainger to crash over from close range, with Allana McWilliam converting to take the tie 7 - 0
Following a quick change of pitches the Warriors took on Oban for the 1st time, again the game was nip & tuck but the Warriors with a little bit of rust out if the system started to string some good rugby together to take the lead with a try from Abbie Clark which started on their own line following Nicole Barlow running down Obans Scotland U18 7s player to make a try saving tackle & force a turnover.
This was quickly followed by the Warriors 2nd try from debutant Kirsty Barlow who with her 1st touch as a Warrior romped in from just inside the Oban half. Annan sealed the game on the stroke of 10 mins with a try for Jane Stewart who with her usual burst of speed broke away to score.
After a small break the Warriors them took on the Sirens for the 2nd time, Annan seemed to be a bit sleepy & gave the Sirens far too much freedom to play rugby, however from a quick turnover in centre field the ball was moved wide for Rachel Armstrong to speed away from the Sirens defence to score. From the kick off Stewartry went back on the front foot & broke through to score with the conversion given but with a certain amount of doubt as both touch judges adjudged it hadnt been converted.
Annans sleepiness seemed to still be there in the 2nd game against where the Oban ladies took a comfortable 12-10 win with Annans tries coming from Abbie Clark & Chelsea Barnes. So as the final games played out the Warriors new the needed to win at least one game to make the final. First up against Stewartry the game was to & fro with both teams pushing hard for the win. The game was once more physical with the Warriors taking the lead with a well worked try from Nicole Barlow only for Stewartry to score & convert with the final play to take the win 7 - 5.
The final game between the Warriors & Oban quickly followed with both teams going for the win & but Annan playing well took a two try lead going into the last minute both of which were from the rampaging Sarah Grainger. The Oban consolation score proving crucial as it took them into the final ahead of the Sirens on the number of tries scored.
So, with 30 minutes break to refresh & rejuvenate the Annan Ladies took to the main pitch against Oban Ladies for the fourth time. As with all the previous games there was nothing between the teams with both teams having chances to break the deadlock before Oban broke through the Warriors staunch defence to score out wide. Not o be outdone the Warriors upped the pace of the game & from a break by Abbie, Jane broke free & sped away from the defence to score under the posts which Allana converted. With the game entering the final minute it was Oban that had a final chance with following an offload out of the tackle the Oban Ladies scored under the posts to take the tie 12 - 7.
All in all, a good day at the office for the Warriors with it proving a worthy exercise to get the cobwebs out of the system & the extra game time will always benefit. Thanks to Moffat for the invite & hospitality.
Annan Squad: C Barnes, L Moffat, N Barnes, S Grainger, Abbie Clark, Ashley Clark, N Dobie, N Barlow, A McWilliam, L Vevers, J Stewart, K Taylor, K Barlow, R Armstrong