Harlequins Ladies 19 Saracens Women 28: Marlie Packer hat-trick secures clinical victory

Flanker Marlie Packer produced a powerful and clinical performance as Saracens Women rose to the top of the Tyrrells Premier 15s table.

Packer used her impressive strength and speed to cross for a hat-trick of tries in her side’s victory over rivals Quins at the Stoop. It was a crucial bonus point victory and ninth successive win for the visitors who remain unbeaten this season.

Quins had held an early 12-7 lead but could not match their rivals’ clinical finishing power when it mattered most.

The hosts, tasting defeat for the first time in this campaign, made the brighter start, with right wing Holly Myers racing over for the opening try early in the game – showing real pace with ball in hand and leaving her pursuers trailing. Sarries replied with determination, and as a swift counter-attack caught the Quins defence cold, the ever-alert Packer forced her way over for a try, converted by Zoe Harrison.

Quins’ formidable pack showed their muscle, penning Sarries back on their own line for a long spell. The heavy pressure paid as referee Andy Wigley awarded a penalty try, Sarries collapsing the maul as Quins marched across their line.

The hosts lost centre Laura Dowsett to a serious leg injury and also lost control of the game, as Sarries finished the first half with two fine tries.

No 8 Poppy Cleall charged over for her side’s second try, and when Packer followed suit as the visitors’ pack displayed their strength, Sarries held a 21-12 half-time lead.

That advantage grew further when Packer completed her hat-trick shortly into the second half as the Quins defence wilted.

No8 Fiona Fletcher rose hopes of a possible Quins fightback when she forced her way across the Sarries line from close range.