Report: Bristol Ladies 5-35 Saracens Women

Both teams entered into this fixture knowing that whoever came out on top would finish the day second in the RFU Women’s Premiership table.

Former Bristol player Deborah Fleming scored a first half hat-trick to put the visitors in the control at the interval, while Poppy Cleall added a brace with a try either side of half-time.

Saracens went 0-35 up with two more tries, before Sarah Bern went over for a late consolation for the home side.

Head Coach LJ Adams said: “We knew this was going to be a tough game. We had a great run into this match with wins from the last few games, but Saracens are reigning champions and we knew they would bring their top game today. Our defensive line speed was good and the girls really played their hearts out.

“We needed to be more clinical when we had the ball and keep hold of the ball more effectively too. Saracens are a team that want to be like – we’ve got new players, young players and we’re on a journey with aim of becoming Premiership champions – this just serves as a reminder of what we may face in the playoff and will only focus our efforts and make us work even harder. A big shout out to all the girls today – a lot of effort and commitment was shown by all of them.”

Photos courtesy of www.rmtphotos.co.uk.