The game kicked off and Millwall were instantly on the attack. A bright start from Millwall as they kept their handling simple and their rucking fast.

Despite Millwall’s efforts, East London turned the ball over on the defender’s 22m and passed out wide to score in the corner with Nina Edwards.

Through great pack mentality and slick handling from the backs, Millwall came back fighting and scored after in five phases after turning the ball over at kick off.

Both teams were looking strong at this point and the ball was going back and forth between the teams without breather.

East London had the upper hand though with Edwards and Samantha Leetch scoring in quick succession and converting her own try. This led the team 17-5 at the break for half time.

The second half brought with it a second wind from Millwall. A try from scrum half Ellaine Gelman in a battle of strength at the line meant they were on the comeback.

East London pulled further ahead with an individual effort from Alice Thompson from her own 22m, handing off the defending winger and being chased all the way to the corner flag.

The weather held out and both teams were able to put together some lovely pieces of backs play. Skills were looking good and the tackles were aggressive.

Another try from Millwall pointed out they weren’t out of it just yet which is testament to their work rate and dedication.

East London though were too strong and had the momentum now. Tries from newcomer Daisy Wren and starring forward Kany Afi plus a conversion saw the team pull away to a memorable victory.

Fiona Pocock

Back of the Match: Nina Edwards
Forward of the Match: Marika Hesketh
Man of the Match: Kany Afi
Dick of the Day: Idil Abdi (serious case of butter-fingers)