Lewes Ladies travelled to the extremities of the UK on Sunday to play Medway away in the first round of the cup, where they ground out a good win against a physically much heavier opposition.

After taking the scenic route (there is apparently some beautiful countryside between Lewes and Medway if you avoid the motorway), it was safe to say that Lewes legs and brains were somewhat sleepier than usual. The dubious news on arrival that the Medway team were not able to field a trained front row (hence negating one of Lewes' normal strengths) only added to the feeling of unsettlement.

After a strong warm up, Lewes seemed to have blown off most of the travelling cobwebs, and this was demonstrated from kick-off when a flowing backs move sent winger Faye Kirby in by the right hand touch line for her second try of the season (5-0). This initial barnstorming play seemed to throw Lewes into a state of relaxation: a state which a barrelling set of Medway forwards were quick to capitalise on when they picked and went from the base of the breakdown to score a quick return try (5-5).

Lewes Ladies knew they were in for a real battle at this point, and despite the Medway weight advantage, they managed to dig their heels in and score a further two converted tries before the end of the first half (scored by flanker Hannah Ross and second row Linde Brouwer), meaning the visitors went in with a 19-5 lead at half time.

The second half was punctuated by continuous stoppages for Medway to receive various applications of strapping and other non-essential medical treatment. The constant halting broke up Lewes' fast and flowing game plan, and allowed the obviously less fit Medway team to regain their breath, making for an incredibly fractured last 40 minutes. Lewes continued to battle on despite the stoppages and staunch Medway defensive line, scoring a further converted try through the stalwart Sam Williams - full time Lewes 26-12 Medway.

All in all: a great result for Lewes despite all the odds being stacked against them. As ever some highlights from the match:

'Irish' Sam Monaghan's second competitive kick of a rugby ball sailing a full 65m into touch from a penalty (her first was slotting home a great conversion)
Linde Brouwer's strong running throughout the match causing constant frustration to the less mobile Medway pack
Standoff Josie Nelder continuing her streak of 'Dick of the Day' awards, by getting mildly injured...

Lewes continue their unbeaten league campaign on Sunday against Ashford at home - come and show your support.