A very good performance in desperately poor weather conditions for the Emeralds. Southampton, playing with the wind in the first half, saw them score their only try of the game. Southampton were physical and doggedly determined however the Emeralds outshone them technically and the significant number of turnover balls saw the Emeralds score 4 tries, all converted, leaving the scoreboard at 28-5 at half time.
The second half intensity remained high and London Irish put a further 6 tries on the scoreboard, 3 converted. Irish dominated in the line out largely due to some impressive play from Fae Cutler donning her first shirt for the Emeralds. Hannah Owen also making her first appearance joined the squad on the wing at half time and marked her territory scoring a try within minutes of taking to the field. An impressive team display with some incredible individual performances. Niamh McGrath scoring 4 tries and Hari McCormack 3. Other try scorers were Allie Nelkon getting the Emeralds on the scoreboard and Captain Sophie Messem taking the team to 50pts. As usual, the kicking accuracy and success rate for Jemma Smith saw 7 impressive conversions despite the howling gale and each ball needing to be propped up for her kick.
Onwards and upwards for the Emeralds, next game November 17th Away to Heathfield & Waldron (A) KO 2.30PM

Squad: 1. Vicky Leigh 2. Ellie Smales 3. Zoe Cox 4. Jemma Smith (VC and 7 conversions) 5. Katie Kitchen 6. Hen Lowen Cooper 7. Fae Cutler 8. Hari McCormack (3T’s) 9. Phoebe Macwhinnie 10. Sophie Messem (C and 1T) 11. Nicky Watson 12. Beth Statham 13. Allie Nelkon (1T) 14. Niamh McGrath (4T’s)15. Anne Murphy
Game changers: 16. Emily Anne Attwood 17. Edie Brazier 18. Eimear McQuillan 19. Hannah Owen 20. Sophie Bennett 21. Grace Donovan