Looking to finish the year on a high, Lightning will head into Saturday’s game feeling confident after a dominant performance against Gloucester-Hartpury. Last week Lightning displayed that they can easily shut down a team with defensive pressure and they will look to do the same to Bristol, stopping them from getting out wide.
In their last meeting in round five of the Tyrrells Premiership 15’s Lightning stormed to victory over Bristol Bears 36-18. Bristol Bears will be looking to revenge that loss this weekend and secure a sought-after win before Christmas after suffering five consecutive losses.
The Lightning starting line-up sees four changes this week with the return of two internationals to the starting side; Katy Daley-Mclean in the fly half position and Jenny Maxwell taking the number 11 shirt. Amy Needham and Anya Richmond both step up into the forward pack, looking to show coach Rhys Edwards what an impact they can make.
Of the game, Head Coach Rhys Edwards commented:
“Going into this last fixture before Christmas it is important that we apply ourselves and get a good result against a tough Bristol team. They have not been on a particularly good run so will be looking to bounce back, throw the ball around and play a fast, expansive game.
For us the reaction to the Quins game was great, we came out with a lot more intensity against Gloucester- Hartpury and had a lot more intent to play. I thought Carys Williams was fantastic las week, it was good to see her back at her best – which only helps the team.
Having Katy back available to play this week after illness is great, her experience and game knowledge adds another dimension to our game. Saturday presents us with a great opportunity to finish on a high before Christmas and to make sure we head into the New Year with positive momentum, pushing for a top two place.”
Make sure you follow us on Twitter for live coverage @lightningrugby
Lightning will be back in action in the New Year on the 12th January against Darlington Mowden Park Sharks.
For further info head to: http://loughboroughsport.com/womens-super-rugby/
Lightning line-up
1) Amy Needham
2) Emily Tuttosi
3) Mags Lowish
4) Cath O’Donnell
5) Anya Richmond
6) Amelia Harper
7) Georgia Bradley
8) Sarah Hunter
9) Ella Wyrwas
10) Katy Daley-Mclean
11) Jenny Maxwell
12) Natasha Jones
13) Carys Williams
14) Bethan Zeidler
15) Olivia Jones
16) Bryony Field
17) Leeannah Pohe
18) Becky Noon
19) Jess Weaver
20) Megan Davey
21) Hannah Phillip
22) Holly Thorpe