Santa Monica Women take first D1 victory

SD Surfers 19 – 29 SMRC

The Santa Monica women pulled out their first victory of the season in their inaugural Division 1 match in a back and forth battle against the San Diego Surfers on Saturday, 29-19.

The first half started strongly for the Lady ‘Phins, until the Surfers took advantage of a quick turnover early and scored (7-0). However, tenacious defense and steady, calculated offense quickly garnered points for Santa Monica with a penalty quick by utility back Jacki Bercovici and try by Tia Blythe (7-10). The Surfers countered with 2 more tries of their own, and the half ended 19-10, Surfers.

Santa Monica used halftime to regroup and brought intensity immediately with a textbook try set up by the forwards and beautiful hands by the backline, ultimately touched down by wing Liz Lanzarone (19-17). This was followed by another try by wing Hannah Han, set up by a kick by Bercovici (19-24). Flyhalf Sarah Harris added the last points on the board by breaking 2 tackles and blitzing through the rest of the defense with her speed (19-29).

The forwards played with strength and set the pace for the game while the backs took advantage of their speed and agility to cut up the pitch. The boots of Bercovici and Blythe are true weapons for the team as well. This game was a fantastic way to start off the season, showing that the Santa Monica women are true contenders to take the Division 1 title for Southern California.

Their next game will be away against the Tempe Rugby Club on 2/23.