University scholar kicks England to victory

The third year Exercise and Sports Science student kicked a conversion and two penalties to help England secure a 23-13 victory against a strong French side at Esher on 3 November.

For much of the game the two sides were closely matched with France putting the first points on the board following a penalty early in the first half. Soon after Amber seized the opportunity to bring England level again, converting another penalty.

England then trailed again following a converted try by France’s Jessy Trémoulière, but Reed kept the side in contention scoring a second penalty after 18 minutes. Ruth Laybourn then seized the advantage when Elodie Giuglion was sent to the sin bin. A brilliant try and took England into the lead just before the half time whistle.

The second half was easier for the England side who worked to stretch out their lead. Joanne Watmore’s try brought the scores to score to 18-10, leaving a floundering France in her wake. The French side struggled to resist the force of England’s continued attack, only managing another three points, despite England’s Helen Fisher taking a stint in the sin bin.

Fiona Davidson consolidated England’s position by scoring the side’s third try of the day, bringing the final score to 23-13.

This is a fantastic result for Amber whose efforts in the centre position earned the team a vital 8 points on the day. The 21 year old centre is no stranger to international competition. She has previously competed eight times for the England under 20s side and also helped the England A team lift the European Trophy in 2011.

Amber is part of the University of Exeter’s Sports Scholarship scheme. The scheme provides talented student athlete’s with specialist support and training to help them excel in their field.

Assistant Director of Sport (Performance & competitions) Nick Beasant commented, “We are delighted by Amber’s selection and involvement against France. To see a current sports scholar performing so strongly on the international stage is simply fantastic. Rugby Union is one the University’s 10 focus sports and within all these we strive to give all players the opportunity develop and progress so they hopefully go on to compete at the highest level.”

Amber has been selected for England’s next match against New Zealand, which will take place on 23 November.