Table toppers Batley Ladies defeat spirited rivals Moor

Batley overcame a very spirited Dewsbury Moor side, playing their first competitive game, 56-0 at Heckmondwike Road last Sunday.

Batley established a ladies team several seasons ago and while they struggled to gain results early on, they have recruited well in the close season and now appear to be challenging for honours.

Dewsbury Moor have followed in Batley’s footsteps by also introducing women’s rugby league and there were three special guests at Sunday’s first match when England stars Sam, Tom and George Burgess all attended.

The brothers all began their careers at Dewsbury Moor and and now ply their trade for the South Sydney Rabbitohs in Australia’s NRL

The brothers were all sporting Dewsbury Moor club polo shirts as they offered encouragement and words of advice to the team, even stepping in for the half-time team talk.

The trio will have surely been impressed with the display of Batley’s Megan Sheard, who produced a staggering 27 tackles during the match and also chipped in with a try.

Jodie Wilkinson led the way for Batley as she scored a hat-trick of tries, including two from long range.

Sarah Fletcher scored two tries and landed eight goals for a personal haul of 24 points.

There was also a brace from Patricia Furness, and by Dani Rose before Katie Brown crossed for Batley’s final try.

The only downside on a memorable day for both clubs was a ligament injury to Batley loose forward Jade Bennett.

Despite being in pain and receiving treatment, Jade managed to have her picture taken with concerned England star Sam Burgess.