7Wells travelled to Medway on 1 February 2026 for a Kent Waterfall seeding fixture, moved late from Sheppey, with a 13.30 kick-off against a well-matched Medway side. The game paired fourth in Group 1 against third in Group 2 and, on a wet, heavy pitch, it unfolded exactly as that seeding suggested.

The conditions set the tone early. The surface was very muddy and the warm-up ended with players already plastered in brown, but both teams adapted quickly. 7Wells arrived with a strong squad of 20 despite a couple of late unavailabilities, meaning five substitutes, and a relaxed mood despite one coach enthusiastically misreading the meeting time and arriving two hours early.

Medway started the stronger, building phases patiently and applying sustained pressure. 7Wells defended with commitment, but eventually the pressure told and Medway crossed for an unconverted try. 7Wells had good moments with ball in hand but could not quite break through a disciplined defensive line. A second Medway score before the interval gave them a 10–0 lead at half time.

The second half was a very different contest. 7Wells raised their intensity noticeably, competing much harder for possession and showing real appetite at the breakdown. An outstanding moment came from Rosie, who received the ball from a quick tap penalty and ran three-quarters of the length of the pitch, only to be hauled down just short. From the resulting breakdown pressure, Tilly powered over for a well-earned try.

Sustained possession followed, Medway began to concede penalties, and the momentum stayed firmly with 7Wells. From close range, Lydia finished decisively to level the scores at 10–10. At that point the game was finely balanced and hard to separate.

Late in the match the pendulum swung again. 7Wells conceded a run of penalties, and Medway reacted smartly with a quick tap, finding space to break through and score what proved to be the winning try. The match finished 15–10 to Medway after a short pause at the end for an injury, with Tilly fortunately making a full recovery.

There were many strong individual performances. Mary produced some exceptional cover tackling, showing excellent technique under pressure. Holly carried consistently and hard, Mae delivered quick, accurate ball from the ruck, and Sophie’s work rate and defensive effort stood out throughout. Medway selected Nella as 7Wells’ Girl of the Game for her relentless work at the breakdown, tackling and go-forward.

In the tight exchanges, the set piece held up well. Scrums were stable against a physically strong Medway pack, and ruck effectiveness was a particular highlight, earning positive comment from the opposition coaches. Areas to develop remain clear: running onto the ball at pace, quicker recycling, and sharper support lines, including confident pick-and-go options when momentum is building.

The squad adapted well to knocks to Lottie’s elbow and Tilly late on, with players showing flexibility and composure in reshuffled roles. The game was well managed by referee Rob Spooner of Medway and played in an excellent spirit. Both sides will benefit from tightening offside discipline at the breakdown, entering through the gate, and retiring quickly the required ten metres at penalties.

Overall, this was a highly encouraging performance from 7Wells. The attitude was positive throughout, contributions came from across the squad, and the team’s commitment to staying on their feet and contesting at the breakdown was a real strength. With continued focus on quick ball, support runners arriving at speed, and maintaining discipline late in matches, this group looks well placed to build further momentum as the season progresses.