The Ferns welcomed Finchley to Datchworth for the second round of the Cup, fully aware it would be their toughest challenge yet. Finchley, currently sitting atop NC2 - a division above the Ferns.

It was a resilient start by the Ferns, Mimi Lewis was a welcome addition to the lineup on her brief return from university. Straight into action with a thumping tackle into touch for the first lineout of the game. Despite a promising spell of possession, Finchley’s speed and physicality soon told, and they crossed for their opening try just seven minutes in.

A reshuffled forwards pack found early struggles at the scrum, and Finchley capitalised ruthlessly, running in three tries in the space of ten minutes. Still, the Ferns refused to fold. Captain Grace Atkins led by example, keeping the Fern’s energy high (alongside copious Skittles) and composure steady — even through some animated post-try “discussions” about defensive duties!

Midway through the first half, the Ferns began to find their rhythm. The scrum steadied, and the team pushed into Finchley territory. But the visitors’ rucking and transition play were outstanding - a masterclass in speed and organisation, and a reminder of one of Coach Phil’s recurring training ground themes. By half time, Finchley had built a commanding seven-try lead.

Arguably the busiest Fern of the day was physio Millie Shanley who kept bodies patched up and players on the pitch. With Megan Johnston off unannounced attending to a blister (and later crowned “Tit of the Day”), Lynne Solomon found herself unexpectedly lining up at No. 8 - not something anyone had on their pre-match bingo card!

Defensively, Reece Wannerton and Katie Humphreys both stood out, putting in several lung-busting, try-saving tackles. Reece even drew praise from the Finchley coaching staff, while Katie’s relentless work earned her the Ferns’ Back of the Match. Terri Allen’s season debut was full of bursting runs and punchy tackles that we’ve come to associate with her, deservedly earning Forward of the match.

Finally, the reward for all the grit came. From a strong scrum, Kerry Grant powered forward, before offloading to Katie, who sidestepped a couple of Finchley players to crash over in the right corner for a well-deserved Ferns try. Sadly, the referee didn’t accept the team’s “next try wins” proposal!

Despite the bruising scoreline newcomers Abbie Foggo and Marina Round came on for their Ferns debuts, neither shying away from contact. Abbie making some solid carries and Marina producing a superb last-ditch tackle.

While the final scoreline of 5-90 sounds brutal, the Ferns’ attitude, spirit, and resilience shone through. Coaches Phil and Duncan praised the squad for their tenacity and teamwork, with pride in how they continued to compete to the final whistle.

Bruised but unbowed, the Ferns now turn their focus to bouncing back in league action - another home fixture, this time against Oxford Harlequins on Sunday, 2nd November.