Lauren Parsons: grit, a clean sheet and a shark costume

Women’s captain Lauren Parsons, sponsored by Jaques Construction, looks back on a winning start to the league season in the Channel Islands and ahead to Lordswood’s visit this weekend.

How did it feel to finally get the league season underway after all the hard work in pre-season?

A relief! Keeping motivation has sometimes been a challenge with such a gap, but the coaches have been brilliant with keeping up our skills and fitness. It was so much fun to get back together with the team and start our campaign to win the league.

What are you most proud of from the performance on the day?

The energy and grit the team showed. Also, we didn’t concede any points! Away games to the Channel Islands are always a challenge with early mornings and heavy legs, but as soon as the first whistle went the team fought hard for the full 80 and got the well-earned win.

Were there any newer players who impressed you as they settle into the squad?

Jemmila is brand new to rugby and has totally embraced the sport, team and club. You can’t tell this is her first season! I also love having Becky as a new addition, who was swayed to join from the DRFC women’s touch team. Both are hard-working and have a great attitude.

We hear there was a pretty good social after the game, so were there any standout performers off the pitch too?

It has to be Amber Miller dancing away at the pub inside an inflatable shark costume during karaoke. Also Jas for going full seahorse. Great efforts!

What are you hoping to see from the team when Lordswood come to town this weekend?

I’m hoping we can build from the last game with regards to structure and execution. Training is going well and we have much more rugby to showcase. Hopefully we can keep a clean sheet for a second week running!