Ripon ladies have made a promising start to the season after winning promotion to North National division one.

Their first game was away to the Vale of Lune, Lancaster, an experienced member of the premier northern league.

In a tough game, Ripon worked hard in the scrum and their defensive cohesion was unprecedented.

In the end it was the boot of fly half Di Blades which proved decisive as Ripon were able to counter attack from a solid and organised defence. The final score was 13-5 to Ripon.

Ripon then faced Fleetwood at Mallorie Park last Sunday. Keen to build on the achievements of the previous week, Ripon's defence was again strong.

But Fleetwood's pack proved difficult to contain and it wasn't until Ripon were able to release their back line that they broke down the Fleetwood defence.

With the crowd enthralled in a nail-biting finish, Ripon snatched a 17-15 victory with three tries from explosive centre Sam Spence and a conversion from Di Blades.

Ripon entertain Blaydon on October 7 at Mallorie Park and would welcome all support in what will undoubtedly be another tough, yet entertaining game.