After numerous previous meetings with Long Eaton and coming agonizingly close on each encounter, Casuals knew that this game would be a very different test.

Long Eaton had been very vocal in their warm up routine but the girls were not phased by this at all.

The game was to be played 12 v 12 with Casuals agreeing to 7 forwards and 5 backs.

Casuals were well aware of the potential threats that came from the Long Eaton girls from their previous meetings. Long Eaton have 4 strong, quick and explosive ball carriers and a number 10 that dictates the play very well. For the 1st 5 - 10 minutes the game was a cagey affair with some strong tackles from each team. Casuals then started to control the game with their phase play before Emily ran in a try from 60m out! To everyone’s disappointment the referee had blown his whistle for an earlier knock on and the ball was returned back inside the Casuals half for a scrum.

This did not dishearten the Casuals girls as they won the ball back against the head at the scrum before again playing structured phase play rugby, drawing in the Long Eaton forwards and then releasing the ball to the backs who had lightening quick hands to match their footwork to score the 1st try under the post which was easily converted.

Casuals next try was much the same as the first with great securing and protection of their own ball.

Long Eaton found some form late in the first half and put the Casuals defense under pressure for a good 5 minutes in our own 22, Three times the Casuals girls managed to hold up the ball as Long Eaton desperately dived for the line. Eventually they did manage to complete their task, scoring and converting also.

Nerves were starting to set in amongst the Casuals supporters but little did they know what was coming next!

Casuals desire to retain every ball at every breakdown, to hit every tackle, to advance at speed, to get back on their feet and be ready for their next job was something the current England Men’s team could take note of!

Casuals girls controlled every aspect of the game and put Long Eaton under so much pressure they were making mistakes at every turn of which Casuals then capitalized on running in try after try.

The final whistle blew, and Casuals girls were victorious 33 – 7

Every girl that played in the White and Maroon jersey should feel immensely proud of themselves today, The 1st ever NLD cup games resulted in two emphatic WINS.

Nottingham Casuals are very proud that you have chosen to represent them!