The discerning touchline punter may think that they look pretty as a dozen pictures in their calendar (a few copies are still available from the club shop - an ideal stocking filler at £8) - the purist will know that the ladies look even better in the flesh sporting their war paint (mud n'stuff) on the pitch.

The Vixens officially 'arrived' and were blooded as part of the competitive Lancashire RFU scene on Sunday 6th December ...taking on teams from Manchester and UCLAN in the inaugural 12 a side (uncontested scrums) Cotton Cup fixtures at Blackburn.

Picture the scene - glorious sunny afternoon, temperatures in the high 70s, the pitch newly trimmed/rolled/painted, spectators in their thousands, bunting, canapés and Pims by the bucketload.  Forget it!

- it was perishing cold (even without the chill wind), matches to be played on a saturated pudding of a pitch at the top of a hill, a goodly hike from the nearest latrine and refreshment facilities at the clubhouse (temptingly close - just below the horizon).  You really had to want to be there - the players did, the coaches did, the handful of spectators huddled together for warmth (?) in a bus shelter at the side of the touchline weren't quite so sure.

Team count - 14 fingers (eventually); warm up drills; gentle and inspiring words of encouragement from Jammy (gentle for her anyway) and Ed, our long suffering coach.  We were ready - let battle commence.  Not quite .. we had to wait for UCLAN and Manchester to play their match first.

Showing our true sporting nature we loudly supported those players we knew (what's Cath doing playing for them ...?), cheered every tackle (bone crunching preferred), and applauded both teams off at the end.  Both teams had got through the proceedings without inflicting too much damage on one another, and scuffed up the lawn in the process - making it impossible for any of us to play in heels or wellies - boots and long studs was no longer optional; thermals desirable.  

After what seemed an eternity (for the reader) - the Vixens took to the field against Manchester.  Manchester opted for a traditional line up - forwards and backs; the Vixens had already identified opposition weaknesses - all wearing mauve, making them legitimate targets for the attentions of the fashion police (Tallulah, Helen and Holly).  We enjoyed the benefits of both the moral high ground and playing downhill - they kicked off..  Introductory exchanges commenced at 1430.

Having taken possession from the kick off (good catch by the way), Vixens made inroads into the Manchester half - short driving runs into the tackle, recycle, gradually passing the ball wider.  After 2 minutes Vixens were awarded a penalty - quick tap, pass and run - try scored - 5-0, bring on the (hot) water bottles while Kerry berates the tee for moving the ball and the mud for affecting her perfect posture before, during and after her unsuccessful conversion attempt.

Kick off - more Vixens possession (another good catch, hey girls we're getting better at this) - back into the Manchester half - ball knocked on in the tackle; first scrum to Manchester after 5 mins allowing Jammy the opportunity to introduce herself to her opposite number because she didn't clear the ball quickly enough.  More Fylde possession, a couple more scrums - Kelly on the run  - oops forward pass (are you sure Sir?).  Vixens awarded penalty after 7 minutes - passed along the line, knocked on (no names - she knows who she is).  Vixens awarded another penalty after 8 minutes - shirt pulling (how unsporting is that).  Ball to Kelly, over she goes 10- 0, conversion missed.

Having inspired her troops from the wing - Hothers made way for Nana; spectators sensing the mayhem to come ventured from the bus shelter to the touchline - they weren't disappointed.  More Vixens possession - Fiona streaking towards the line, driven into touch 10 metres out.  First line out ... Manchester ball, more tackles, another line out.

A series of 5 metre scrums led to Vixens scoring another try after 19 mins; changed the kicker - conversion missed. 15 - 0.

Manchester kicked off - different tactic, ball bounced to travel over 10 metres - they picked up and passed the ball wide - their short but fleet of foot winger was eventually stopped in her tracks by a high tackle (fair cop - it was) before she got into her stride.  The referee had 'words' and awarded Manchester a penalty.

Vixens regained possession and booted the ball back into the Manchester half where it stayed until the full time whistle.

final score 15 - 0

Pluses - too many to mention, but I'll try anyway.  Backs and forwards working together, good handling skills despite the cold, commitment in the tackle, never give an inch mentality.  Manchester only got the ball over the Vixens 22 once, UCLAN never got near it.

Venue - thanks to Blackburn for providing facilities at short notice.

My particular thanks to Ed and the (don't know her name) UCLAN player who remained with me on the pitch after I was injured; and everybody else for their concern.

Match report by Ellen.

Sarah Hothersall's (Vixens Chairs) Verdict:

What a day! This was our first game since being affiliated and what a way to show how it's done.

The Vixens have been lifted by the support that Fylde have shown over the last few months and myself and Jammy (Captain) are pleased that we managed to thrash the opposition (which may I add, play frequent games) and that we gave something back to all those who have supported us!

The Cottam Cup continues in January and February and we are now ready and raring to fight to prove our affiliations worth.

Well done Vixens... Let the good times roll!