The home team had not played a league fixture since the end of November and despite winning the away fixture earlier in the season 17-10 another tough game was expected.

Southport came straight out of the blocks and showed their dominance up front with hard running from the forwards, creating spaces for their speedy backs to exploit. Two tries from scrum half and birthday girl, Natasha Rouffignac added to by flanker Gemma Hurst early on stunned Sunderland as the home side dominated in all areas. A great interchange of play from the half backs put No8 Lauren McCluskey through for an easy score and Southport's fourth try.

Some forced changes early in the second half and numerous stoppages halted Southport's flow. However, they soon found their rhythm and set up the try of the day scored by outside centre Katie MacDonald. Some more hard running from the forwards, with an offload to Pip Birchall who showed great footwork and awareness to put through the supporting MacDonald. The try was converted by Jenny Carney.

With the game won and lack of match fitness evident, Southport took their foot off the gas and Sunderland came back with two scores of their own. However, the damage had already been done by a fantastic team performance. Final score: Southport 27 Sunderland 12

Forward of match- Gemma Hurst
Back of match- Natasha Rouffignac
Next game- Sunday 21st January away at Kendal.