The weekend before the Premiership and Championship South West 2 leagues kick off saw Wasps play Aylesford at home in a preseason friendly. Aylesford Bulls have been promoted to the Premiership after beating off Thurrock in the playoffs to secure the promotion spot. The game was played in four 20 minute quarters and rolling substitutes were permitted.

Wasps started the game as they meant to go on, scoring within the first minute, with fullback Cerri Forster crashing the ball over out wide. Some good play from the girls resulted in a try for new Wasps player, Marlie Packer. Fly half, Hannah Edwards added the extras for both tries – Wasps 14-Aylesford 0.

Unfortunately, lapses in discipline meant the girls gave away several penalties throughout the first half of the match, but as the game progressed, Wasps regained their composure.

Another try for Forster was followed up by some great backs play, and a try for outside centre, Lynsey Douglas. Edwards converted Douglas’ try, putting the home side up 26-0 at half time.

Wasps made a substantial number of substitutions at half time. A whole new back line gave Aylesford a new challenge, which they stepped up to. Front row Mel Moubtahij powered through to score early on in the 3rd quarter, with Aylesford responding soon after with their only try of the game. More changes were made during the second half of the match, and again, discipline lapsed, which resulted in two yellow cards for Wasps. Aylesford upped their game during this period, but despite this, Wasps stayed solid in attack and defence, and the girls in black and gold scored one last try through winger Kit Ahweyevu.

With lots of positives to take from the game, there will be a buzz at Twyford Avenue at training on Tuesday and Thursday.

Final score: Wasps 36 – 5 Aylesford