An emphatic 63-5 win over Wetherby Ladies saw Carlisle Rugby Club women’s team begin life in NC1 North East League in style.

Carlisle started strongly and took the lead with three minutes played. Kate Barron scored the Carlisle Cougars’ first try, converted by Ash Hendrie.

That sparked a flurry of quick tries with centre Hannah Farrell running one in from 60 yards out, soon followed by full-back Sarah Pratt who did similar from 40 yards out.

Carlisle’s forwards had a fantastic game, turning over the majority of scrums with some great drives from the pack, but Wetherby had some strong forwards and some great tacklers who forced Carlisle to be creative.

Hannah Sherlock then got her first of the day for Carlisle, before Chrissie Hadfield added to the board, gaining her first try of her rugby career.

After the restart on Sunday, some strong attacking play by Carlisle saw them continue to add to their points.

But the visitors deservedly got on the board soon after, as they pegged the scoreline back to 51-5.

Wetherby slowed Carlisle down in the second half, with Carlisle’s lack of subs and fitness showing slightly towards the end. But Sherlock and Farrell continued to add to the try tally in the latter stages to seal their opening-day success.

Next Sunday, the Carlisle Cougars host Halifax, kick-off at 2pm.