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Updated 28/04/2024 at 22:03 GMT
Saracens Women have been crowned Allianz Cup winners after an emphatic victory over Bristol Bears. They did not have things all their own way though, being forced to come from behind at half-time to land the trophy. It goes someway to repairing the heartache of being beaten finalists last year. Player of the match Sharifa Kasolo described herself as “super elated” after the success.
Lotte Clapp of Saracens lifts the Women’s Allianz Cup following the Women’s Allianz Cup Final match between Bristol Bears and Saracens at Shaftesbury Park on April 28, 2024 in Bristol, England.
Image credit: Getty Images
Saracens Women ran home five tries as they came from behind to beat Bristol Bears in the Allianz Cup final.
Beaten finalists last year, the Women in Black may have thought a repeat was on the cards when they trailed 12-7 at the break,
But a sensational second half fight back paved the way for a 31-17 victory as Alex Austerberry’s side lifted the trophy for the first time.
“Super elated, the sun’s out and I’m feeling the good vibes”, player of the match Sharifa Kasolo said.
“We deserved it. We worked so hard. Being in the final last year and just being so close, that was what I kept in my mind.
“I wanted to put my body on the line. I’d put my head anywhere, just to make sure I was doing my bit for this team.
“We went in at half-time and we really just wanted to come out composed, do things for each other. A lot of what we’ve been working on, supporting each other with our carries and tackles and doing everything together.
“I think that’s what really gave us that edge today.”
Former Sarries player Deborah Wills ran home the first try for the Bears at Shaftesbury Park and grabbed another around the half hour mark to give her side a handy lead.
However, Akina Gondwe responded before the break to reduce the deficit, giving her team plenty of hope going into the second half.
After the break, Lotte Clapp handed them the advantage, while Bryony Field further increased the lead.
And although Ella Lovibond pulled one try back for Bristol, the die had already been cast as some heavy Saracens pressure was rewarded with tries for Poppy Cleall and May Campbell.
That was enough to help the club secure their 11th cup victory.
Gloucester-Hartpury came third in the tournament thanks to a 26-14 success over Exeter Chiefs at Sandy Park, while Loughborough Lightning beat Sale Sharks to take fifth and Trailfinders Women edged past Harlequins to come seventh.
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