Depleted Valkyries lose at Plymouth

Abi Harding in action for Portsmouth Valkyries. Picture: Chris Moorhouse

Their situation wasn't helped when they had to make changes the night before the game.

Influential players Bronwyn Jacobs, Charlie Morgan, Abi Harding, Sophy Roseaman, Natasha Davison and Georgie Outhwaite were all missing.

And further problems occurred early in the game when the strong-running Lou Langton was injured.

'Plymouth possibly wanted it more than us,' said senior coach Mark Witcher.

'However, we managed to show phases of good link up play and the scrummaging was excellent.

'Fortunately we managed to get our deserved consolation try at the end of the match.

'With a game to go we find ourselves mid-table, which we must be happy with as a team for our first year promoted.’

Valkyries also have a National Cup semi final against Reading at Rugby Camp on March 22 to look forward to.

'There have been some stand-out performances from newcomers Abi Harding, Lou Langton and 19-year-old Carrie Whymark who is impressing each week,’ Witcher added.

'Rosie Staples has also had a fantastic season and will be sorely missed when she goes back to sea.

'The development side goes from strength to strength as they play more games led by Tally Aslam and Emily Hares.

'A 10-0 win against Old Emmanuel this weekend gave them another boost of confidence.

'This side has allowed players such as Megan Wildman, Amelia Mills and Emily opportunities to learn the game and develop what they do at training in a live situation.'

Havant Sirens lost 26-22 against Newbury Ladies yesterday.

Steph Wyant, Steph Armstrong and Nette Petley scored consolation tries.