On Sunday 23rd February the Herts Under 16 PDG Girls squad travelled to Romford to play in a four match away fixture against Essex.

With our nine Fullerians making up the 40 player Herts squad, they featured strongly across the two teams.

From left to right; Emilie Turnock, Ruby Adamski, Martha Blake, Pluto Norris, Giovanna Fajfer, Annie Wicks, Emily Channer, Amelia Mallett and Berynne Shiels.

The development nature of the fixture saw some change from their favoured club positions, with some also switching during the two matches. Despite a few nerves before kick off, the Furies rose to the challenge and made a notable contribution, including both Emilie and Berynne running out as co-captains.

The blended and development nature of the teams didn’t show, with the forwards demonstrating set piece skills and a high work rate, and with the backs linking well with teammates from other clubs to run some great lines.

The quality and pace of the games was a step up from club level, and delivered what was a competitive and compelling watch.

As ever, Essex offered strong opposition and so there was a great deal of satisfaction for the Herts coaches to come away undefeated.

None more so than our own U16 girls squad and Herts coach Kristyan Mallett - “It was a fantastic afternoon of rugby. Incredibly persistent teams, both showing off what the development pathway has to offer. A wonderful display of core values on and off the pitch by both teams. To witness as a club and county coach and as a father I couldn’t have been more proud”

The Furies involvement in the Herts PDG is evidently developing their skills and knowledge. With the confidence that experiences like Sunday give them, it’ll feedback and help elevate the performance of our wider squad.

All in all a successful day, and our Furies contingent can be very proud of themselves.