'We’re up for the challenge, we’re focused’ – Wills

On an overcast winter day in February at Darlington Park, Wills crossed the try line twice on her debut for the Bears having joined on loan from Worcester Warriors.

The former GB7’s player, showcased her speed from the get-go and has gone on to score a further three times. Obviously enjoying herself on the pitch, Wills has settled into Bear Country very well:

“It can be difficult coming into a squad midway through a season, but all the girls have been so encouraging and so receptive of me being here.

“It’s great to be coached by Dave (Ward) and Tom (Luke) and I feel like I’m really benefiting from their coaching, and also developing as a player.”

One thing which is key for players to thrive on the pitch, according to Wills, is a good team environment.

“I think you can tell when players are happy in their environments because it shows on the pitch. The style of rugby that Bristol play allows me to bring my strengths to the side.  I’ve enjoyed every game I’ve played in thus far and hopefully they’ll be many more.”

Wills played a part in the Bears’ win against Exeter Chiefs, in the final match at home of the season. The side now face Saracens away, a challenge which the winger believes the team are more than ready for:

“We’re approaching the end of the season, but it’s the business part of the season. This weekend is a big fixture.

“They’re the current Premier 15s title holders, so yes, it’s always tough coming up against a team that has had that kind of success, but I think we’re very focused on what we want to achieve, and I believe we can achieve it.”

Having started her playing carrier at Bristol Ladies, Wills went on to play for Saracens so they’re a side the back knows well.

“I think we can expect them to bring the physicality, they have a good kicking game and have high calibre players running through their team, so it will be a challenging game.

“However, as players we relish those big challenges. We’re looking to go up there and go toe to toe with them. Ultimately, we want to come away with the win and with the five-points.”

As many sides will say, both in the Allianz Premier 15s and in the Gallagher Premiership, the StoneX is always a difficult ground to travel away to, but it also tastes the sweetest when you do secure a win there.

“It would mean a lot to the team to secure a win away from home, especially at the StoneX. Playing away is always going to have elements that make it tough, but we’re there to do a job.

“We’re focused and hopefully we’ll make this seven-streak win into an eight-streak win on Sunday.”

Bears supporters turned out in force last time out and the side are hoping to see a few of you this weekend in North London.

“To the travelling fans we really appreciate you, your support means the world to us, and I think especially when there’re shifts in momentum within the game when you can hear your fans getting behind you and cheering you on, you’re able to overcome those momentum shifts.

“We appreciated you all so much last weekend at home and we will do the same this weekend. Just a massive thank you to anyone who is travelling to support us.”

Bears play Saracens on Sunday, May 28^th at the StoneX (2:30KO).