Saracens Amateur RFC Limited

Richmond's first visit to Allianz Park was met with downpours that would have had Noah worried, but it failed to dampen the play. Despite an injury to Alice Richardson in the first minute, Richmond looked comfortable in the difficult conditions and were 6-0 up courtesy of two penalties from Abi Chamberlain before Saracens were able to get to grips with the game.

Repeated Richmond infringements led to a yellow card and the Saracens forwards took advantage with Maggie Alphonsi powering over from close range. Sarah Mckenna converted for a 7-6 lead. Saracens started to show their skill at the breakdown and continued to put pressure on the Richmond line with McKenna slotting an excellent drop goal from the 22 to give them a 10-6 lead at half time.

The second half started with more Saracens pressure on Richmond's line, with the visitors’ scrum looking decidedly out of sorts. This led to the referee awarding Saracens a penalty try, again converted by McKenna, 17-6.

Saracens won a further two penalties which McKenna duly kicked before Chamberlain got one back for Richmond. The last 10 minutes were frantic with numerous turnovers for both sides due to the slippery conditions, but neither could capitalise on their chances making the final score 23-9 with Saracens claiming the top spot in the league courtesy of the victory.

Photos by Elaine Peedle