Already reaching one step further this year than the last, Lightning gear up to face a fierce Harlequins side as they head down to Twickenham Stoop on Sunday 14th April to battle for a coveted place in the TP15’s Final.
With a full squad in contention for selection Head Coach Rhys Edwards has had the pick of the bunch for this crunch match. The side which features twelve internationals’ will be led by England captain Sarah Hunter who will be supported in the forwards pack by fellow red rose Cath O’Donnell, Scottish duo Sarah Bonar and Rachel Malcolm and Canadian internationals Daleaka Menin and Emily Tuttosi.
Bolstered by the recent signing of Emily Scarratt Lightning’s back’s poses multiple threats, with Katy Daley-Mclean looking to orchestrate play from the 10 position. Fresh from Hong Kong Sevens Rhona Lloyd and Jenny Maxwell will inject some extra pace into the Lightning play.
Speaking on the game ahead Head Coach Rhys Edwards said:
“This is a going to be an unbelievable game. Harlequins have shown over the last 2 seasons how they can dominate sides with their power and aggression up front whilst still being clinical in their backs. It will be one of the toughest match ups of the season and we will have to bring out “A” game if we want to challenge them at The Stoop. “
“We are very lucky to have three very experienced players in the side on Sunday. Sarah Hunter, Katy Daley-Mclean and Emily Scarratt’s leadership on and off the pitch will have a massive impact, as they inspire the other girls around them to express themselves and produce the best rugby possible.”
“I think that meeting Harlequins phyiscality will be our main test. If we can do that effectively then we can take hold of the game early, play in the right areas and challenge them in a way they have not been this season. If both teams are on form, I think it could be one of the best games of the season.”
Loughborough Lightning vs Harlequins Ladies kicks-off at 2pm. Follow Lightning Rugby Twitter @LightningRugby for live updates.
The game will also be streamed online in the channels below:
@Premier15s - http://po.st/sl632J
YouTube - http://po.st/R1PaIg
Facebook - http://po.st/spPO6R
Lightning Squad:
- Leah Bartlett
- Emily Tuttosi
- Daleaka Menin
- Cath O’Donnell
- Sarah Bonar
- Rachel Malcolm
- Georgia Bradley
- Sarah Hunter ©
- Jenny Maxwell
- Katy Daley-Mclean
- Carys Williams
- Ellen Ramsbottom
- Emily Scarratt
- Rhona Lloyd
- Olivia Jones
- Katie Trevarthen
- Mags Lowish
- Jo Brown
- Becky Noon
- Megan Davey
- Natasha Jones
- Charlotte Pearce