Zackary double helps sink Welsh Women

By Mark Stevens
16/3/22

Exeter Chiefs Women's duo Hope Rogers and Kate Zackary both scored tries as they helped the USA Eagles Women's side to a 31-23 victory over Wales Women at the Parc-Y-Scarlets.

In an entertaining fixture in Llanelli, it was the hosts who started strongly, flanker Alisha Butchers stealing line-out ball and running straight to the line after two minutes.

Moments later Robyn Wilkins extended their lead with a penalty before she added the extras to the home side's second try, which centre Hannah Jones claimed following good work from Alex Callender at the line-out.

Down 15-0, the USA - currently sixth in the world rankings - needed a rapid response and that's exactly what they got as they replied with two tries of their own through prop Rogers and Worcester Warriors lock Alycia Washington to leave just three points in it at the break.

On the resumption, Wales - who included Chiefs winger Caitlin Lewis in their side - came back out with the same attacking intent as they started the game, but despite a quality run from Jaz Joyce, they were unable to add to their tally.

Instead, it was the USA who added to their tally, Lleucu George slotting a penalty before No.8 Zackary scored her first try of the match taking the visitors to a 19-18 lead.

Wales came back with a good forwards try, scored by prop Donna Rose, her first in a Wales shirt, but USA hit back immediately with two more – through centre Alev Kelter and the impressive Zackary, Exeter's Megan Foster slotting a touchline conversion.