It appears he felt very light-headed after the thigh injury due to internal bleeding. But coach Jordan Reynolds is happy to report that the Kiwi is recuperating and will not be sidelined for long.

Meanwhile, the ladies are basking in the joy of a first UK league win.

They beat Ellingham & Ringwood 15-0 and coach Chris Griffiths was delighted.

‘The girls were a little tense during the first 10-15 minutes. I think this is why we squandered early chances to score, as we had a huge amount of early possession and territory but we just couldn't make the final pass stick.

‘However, once we settled down a bit I think we looked pretty comfortable and once we scored the first try I think the nerves had subsided considerably.’

Chris praised the performances of the debutants, Justeen Baker at 13, who made a fantastic break to set up Anneka's try, and Andrea Harris in the second row, who has never played rugby before this season.

‘Eleanor Woodward also played her first match at hooker and performed very well in the tight as did Tanya Scholtz who played second row for the first time, and we will look to develop their skills in these positions as I believe they have huge potential.’

The side’s next match is against Portsmouth Valkyries on Sunday 28th at home.

SQUAD:
1. Beth Gabriel; 2. Eleanor Woodward; 3. Heidi Mahy; 4. Kristine Vavere (capt.); 5. Tanya Scholtz; 6. Laura Heales; 7. Fiona Power; 8. Vicky Rang; 9. Hannah Lord; 10. Jemma Crouse; 11. Megan De Garis; 12. Hannah McLennan; 13. Justeen Baker; 14. Anneka Saunders; 15. Chelsie Blondel.

Replacements: 16. Michaela Rabey; 17. Sophie O’ Connell; 18. Michelle Schofield; 19. Mae Skillen; 20. Andrea Harris.