Farnham Rugby Club Falcons’ women’s first team slipped to a 26-14 defeat at Portsmouth Valkyries in Women’s NC One South West (East).

The first 15 minutes of the game saw the Falcons push the Valkyries back to their try line, ending in them having to do a goal-line drop out to get up the pitch.

The Falcons kept up the pressure and both sides gave it their all in a physical game.

Portsmouth had strong runners, but the Falcons drew on their strengths, did not falter in defence and met the physicality with determination. The tackles from both teams were spectacular and hard hitting.

A good display of team support and handling saw the Falcons put the pressure on a surprised Portsmouth, and lineouts were a particular set piece highlight with the training efforts paying off in gameplay.

At half-time the two teams were level at 14-14. The Valkyries scored a couple of late tries in the second half to run out 26-14 winners.

Farnham Falcons also faced Millbrook in a friendly and ran out comprehensive 62-31 winners.

The weather conditions were perfect for the match. The Falcons team was a combination of first team and second team players.

Millbrook made some hard-hitting runs and had some competitive set pieces. The Falcons countered this well to gain the upper hand and continued to add to the scoreboard throughout the match.

Next up for the Falcons’ first team is a home game against Supermarine Ladies in Women’s NC One South West (East) on Sunday, November 3.