Havant Women delivered a composed and determined performance in a friendly designed to prepare both sides for their season ahead, securing a confident 34–24 home win over Hove. The match swung repeatedly, with both teams showing ambition in attack and real physicality, before Havant took control in the final stages.

Hove opened the scoring with an early strike, but Havant responded with real intent. Kacy powered over for her first try of the afternoon, a finish created through sustained pressure and sharp awareness across the pitch. Havant’s pack then asserted themselves, driving a dominant maul deep into Hove territory; Tash finished it off with a true team effort built from organisation, power and patience.

Fearne followed with one of several influential carries, smashing through contact to set up Havant’s next score and extend the lead. Her physicality became a theme throughout the match, lifting the team whenever momentum wavered.

Hove fought back strongly, scoring twice to close the gap and swing the pressure back onto Havant. But the home side regrouped superbly. Havant played heads‑up rugby, injecting tempo into their attack, helping create the space Eloise needed to break through and finish, restoring Havant’s advantage.

Hove answered again, keeping the contest tight heading into the final quarter. But Havant saved their best rugby for the closing stages. Kacy — a standout threat all afternoon with her powerful carries — struck again for her second try, shifting the momentum decisively. Emily then sealed the result with a composed final finish, confirming Havant’s control and securing a deserved 34–24 victory.

After the final whistle, both sides came together in good spirits, recognising the value of a hard, competitive run‑out ahead of the season. Havant extend their thanks to Hove for travelling down and contributing to a high‑quality friendly.

? Awards
Forward of the Match: Emilie Lewis
Back of the Match: Gracie Henson