Luzern’s 100% record remained intact at a cold and wet Allmend on Saturday, as a brutal match against the Zurich Valkyries ended in victory for the women in white. Both teams fought hard until the end and the standard on display was extremely high, in spite of the poor conditions.
The hosts got off to a quick start, pinning Zurich back from the opening kick-off, forcing a turnover and passing the ball wide quickly to Lea on the right wing, who had plenty of space to score in the corner and make it 5-0.
The Dangels continued to dominate possession and scored again after ten minutes, ruck turnover ball on the halfway line being passed left to Edith, who showed speed and strength to break two tackles and score under the posts. Lolli converted to bring the score up to 12-0.
Zurich began to get a foothold in the game and were able to retain possession for much of the rest of the first half without making any score. Luzern’s tackling was excellent but they were too passive in letting Zurich retain the ball without threat – this is something that needs to be worked on ahead of the Redzones game, which will be crucial in deciding whether the title remains ours or not.
However, the Dangels have many gamebreakers in their squad and the newest addition kept up her sensational try-scoring record by running 60 metres to score under the posts after the ball was passed wide. 17-0 at half-time.
The second half saw much the same pattern of the first. Possession was given to Zurich for the majority of the second half. Finally after the visitors had ten minutes camped in the Luzern redzone, they pushed the ball wide to their quick winger who ran in easily up the left channel. 17-5 with 20 minutes to go.
With ten minutes to go, Zurich scored another, this time concerted pressure on the Luzern 5 metre line seeing the ball just punched in for a try after frantic Luzern defending so nearly prevented it. 17-10.
However, needing one more try to secure a bonus-point and more importantly the win, Luzern took the ball 25 metres out and Esti ran through a big gap to score under the posts with a great solo effort. Final score: 24-10.
As always against Zurich, there were some bruised and battered bodies at the end of the game. The conditions made things even tougher and it was a credit to Luzern’s mental fortitude that no longer does doubt creep in when the opposition are on top. We have belief in ourselves and each other. Next week – the big one!
Angel wings: Wespi. Led the forwards by example, tackled hard, was vocal and gave everything.
Angel wings 2: Jasi. First match as a member of the squad. Didn’t get to play, but her time will come for sure!
Horns: Cynthia. After finally being over her injury problems, an infected finger stopped her from playing??!
Beers for: Eva. Given best player by Zurich, once again tackled hard and is turning into a really outstanding flanker. The potential level is very high!
by LUKE SMITH
our kit got some colour…
