DEVELOPMENT SQUEEZE OUT WORCESTER/CLIFTON SELECT

Despite a last minute change of venue, Wales Development were unperturbed and put in a very promising start to the season against a high calibre opposition that included a number of Scottish, Welsh and Irish senior internationals. 

Following a period of pressure in the Worcester/Clifton 22, Development hooker, Rhian Bowden crossed after 20 minutes to open the scoring.  She added a further try five minutes later to put the home side 10-0 up. 

Scottish international Number 8, Donna Kennedy, got Worcester/Clifton off the mark shortly before half-time, charging a Development kick down to run over for 5. 

The second half brought in two tries apiece, with Hayley Kemp and Nicola John bagging one each for Wales Development.  Senior Wales international, Elen Evans, snatched one on behalf of Worcester/Clifton, with Carina Corner adding their final points on the final whistle. 

The Development side stood up well in all quarters with the forwards exerting some excellent momentum, particularly in the shape of new squad member, Sarah Simkin, who carried the ball superbly throughout.  Fly Half Paula Mullen directed the play with some tactically strong kicking that allowed the backs to put in some fierce attacking runs. 

The fixture brought an opportunity for the National Coaching team to look at the squad prior to selecting for the Six Nations campaign and the Development international against Holland.