From the outset, UKAF looked the sharper side. Their forwards and backs combined well to punch holes in the Zambian defence, and it wasn’t long before pressure turned into points. No.21 Brightwell crashed over for the game’s opening try, which was converted to give UKAF a 7–0 lead. Despite a strong defensive effort from Zambia, repeated infringements saw them reduced to 14 players, and UKAF capitalised almost immediately with UKAF No.17 adding a second score. Although the conversion drifted wide, the scoreboard reflected UKAF’s early dominance.
The set-piece battle soon became a key theme, with UKAF commanding the scrums and enjoying the upper hand at the breakdown. Zambia, however, showed immense character, throwing in thundering tackles and working hard to disrupt the rhythm of their opponents. But the pressure kept mounting, and UKAF eventually forced their way through again, UKAF No.22 touching down to extend the lead to 17–0 before halftime.
The crowd, soaking in the warm afternoon atmosphere, were treated to bone-shaking collisions as both sides left nothing in reserve. A yellow card for a UKAF high tackle briefly levelled numbers, but the half closed with the home side firmly in control.
After the restart, the contest took on a new dimension. Zambia came flying out, their speed and power on full display. A monstrous hand-off sparked their first real attacking platform, and moments later they were rewarded with a try to reduce the deficit to 17–5. Suddenly, momentum began to shift, with Zambia growing in confidence and asking serious questions of the UKAF defence.
Yet UKAF were quick to respond. A driving maul provided the platform, and No.11 Grundy darted clear to restore breathing space at 22–5. Minutes later, Sarah Batley crossed to stretch the lead further. At 27–5, UKAF looked on course for a comfortable victory.
But Zambia had other ideas. Playing with passion and pace, they hit back with a try of their own to make it 27–10. Although two yellow cards in quick succession hampered their efforts, their resilience shone through. UKAF seized the numerical advantage when Daisy Aspinall showcased her speed to score another try, pushing the lead to 32–10.
Remarkably, Zambia refused to lie down. Their backline sparked into life, cutting through with dazzling pace to notch two quick tries and drag themselves within 10 points at 32–22. The closing minutes were all Zambia, their energy and determination driving them forward as they threatened to overturn the deficit.
In the end, UKAF managed the final stages well, kicking the ball into touch to confirm a hard-fought 32–22 victory.
It was a game that had everything: early dominance, bruising defence, thrilling counter-attacks, and a late surge that kept fans on edge until the last moment. UKAF may have taken the win, but Zambia’s fightback will live long in the memory of all who witnessed a superb afternoon of rugby.
Photos (c) Alligin Photography
