WELLINGTON Vixens put up a spirited fight before losing 59-7 at home to Exeter Saracens in their Junior Cup fixture which was played at the Athletic Ground on Sunday.

Saracens play in a league above Vixens who knew it was going to be a tough test. Exeter showed their strength from the start and they proved to be strong in all departments.

The Vixens defended hard and looked to attack whenever the opportunities came, but a strong and well-drilled Exeter side were able to break through and run in a number of tries.

Despite the scoreline, the Vixens never stopped. Heads stayed up, tackles kept going in and, most importantly, the team continued to back and encourage each other right until the final whistle.

The second half provided Vixens with something to celebrate as Jess Erdos, on her Vixens debut, went over in the corner for their first and only try of the game! From out wide, Max Pontin stepped up and absolutely nailed an outstanding conversion, adding the extra two points for the Vixens.

The final score finished 59–7 to Exeter Saracens, but the Vixens spirit remains as strong as ever. A Vixens’ spokesperson said: “Sometimes rugby gives you tough days, but this group showed exactly what being a team is about — sticking together when things aren’t going your way.

“A huge thank you to Exeter Saracens for the game and to everyone who came down to support us. No dwelling on this one — the Vixens are home again this Sunday, 11th October, as we return to league action against Chard

Forward of the Match: Emily Willis; Back of the Match: Lisa Jenkins — sponsored by Atlantic Capital Markets; Players’ Player: Gemma Batts — sponsored by K. Nicholas & Sons