Lightning Head Coach Nathan Smith was resolute in his praise for his side as they fought to the death in their 39-26 defeat to Trailfinders Women.
Heading into Saturday’s fixture, both sides were fully aware of the ramifications that a win would have on their ambitions for a spot in the top four at the end of the season.
Despite the scoreline ultimately going against Lightning at the full-time whistle, the African Violets’ desire to fight till the final whistle was a point of pride for Smith.
“Trailfinders started the game strong,” he explained. “I think the wind played a part in the second half. We never really got out of our half and into a position to threaten, but I thought we fought to the end to get a point.
“Fair play to Trailfinders, they played really well today and fully deserved the win.
Heading into the half-time break, Lightning were up on the scoreboard following tries from USA Eagles Alev Kelter and Mae Sagapolu, as well as Red Rose Bo Westcombe-Evans. However, Trailfinders shot out of the blocks in the second period, running in four unanswered tries and taking the game out of Lightning’s reach.
However, a 72nd minute solo-stunner effort from recently re-signed World Cup winner Sadia Kabeya gave Lightning something to cling onto from the game as they walked away from the match with an important bonus point.
“Sadia is quality,” Smith said of his back-rower. “She’s one of the best players in the world and showed it this afternoon, and I’m looking forward to seeing her go well in the Six Nations.”
The PWR now enters a hiatus period for the international break, but Lightning will return to action following the conclusion of the Six Nations and PAC 4 competitions as they host Saracens Women at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens on Sunday 31 May (kick-off: 12pm).
“We’ve got Saracens and Tigers in the last block of the season,” Smith continued. “So there’s a potential ten-point swing for us to get back in it.
“I’m proud of the girls for sticking to our identity and working really hard; it just wasn’t our day against Trailfinders”