Hampstead ladies’ opening game at Ashford was postponed at the weekend but their second XV hosted Tonbridge and fought back from three tries down to draw 24-24.
Tonbridge played with high intensity right from the start and crossed the line early on before adding another two scores in the opening 30 minutes.
However, Hampstead refused to give up and they battled back with a fine display of rugby.
After a series of solid rucks from the forwards and great hands through the backs, Delphine Tsirane touched down score in the corner before the interval.
Hampstead carried this momentum through into the second half and, after fighting Tonbridge off on their own line, they went up the other end and crossed the whitewash twice.
Flanker Agnes Okand was making her debut, and she picked the ball up following a line-out and went over the line before setting up the next score for Kathryn Davey.
With 10 minutes left, Hampstead pulled ahead for the first time in the match, with vice-captain and number eight Justine Walsh breaking away to score a try which was converted by Annie Liddiard.
Hampstead were now leading 24-17 ahead, but Tonbridge fought back, exerting strong pressure right to the end and gaining their reward with a late try, which was followed by an excellent conversion which tied the game.
Katie Oakes was named Hampsead’s forward of the match due to her heavy hits throughout the game, and the back of the match award went to Davey for her relentless efforts.
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