Broughton Park Women secured a hard-fought 20-7 victory over Doncaster Demons in an entertaining contest that was far closer than the final score line suggests.

Park dominated possession and territory throughout much of the first half, but a combination of handling errors, penalties and outstanding Doncaster defence kept the scoreboard quiet. The visitors repeatedly absorbed wave after wave of pressure before Park finally broke through after 21 minutes, with a well-worked move ending in a try out wide to take a 5-0 lead into the break.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with Park's forwards beginning to exert greater influence. A powerful forwards' try extended the lead to 10-0 before Doncaster responded with an excellent converted score from one of their few opportunities, narrowing the gap to 10-7 and setting up a tense final quarter.

Park responded brilliantly, however. Another sustained period of pressure produced a third try before a quick-taken penalty by the scrum half allowed her to cross for the decisive fourth score of the afternoon.

Doncaster deserve enormous credit for an excellent defensive display and some exciting attacking rugby, but Park's determination, physicality and teamwork ultimately proved the difference. Every player contributed to an impressive all-round performance that suggests this side will be firmly in the mix at the top end of the table this season.

Final Score: Broughton Park Women 20-7 Doncaster Demons