COLNE and Nelson's stubborn defence was breached just once but once is all it took for Nottingham Casuals to win this muddy battle.

The Casuals came in to the game as massive favourites but came up against a Colne side who defended doggedly throughout this cup semi final -- despite being hit by injury.

The majority of the match was played inside Colne's 22 with the home side camped on their own line for large periods.

But some fantastic scrummaging and last ditch tackling kept Nottingham at bay until late in to the second half.

The muddy conditions made sure it was a game dominated by the forwards and Colne's pack were in fantastic form while scrum half Mandy King played exceptionally well linking the forwards and backs.

Coaches Bob Greig and Mick Gillam saw their game plan disrupted after picking up a number of injuries and they missed the forward power of second row Clare Thomas who went off with a leg injury.

However, Colne reshuffled their pack and replacement Elsie Holmes played her best match of the season, showing great determination while in possession of the ball.

Flanker Alison MacKintosh went off with a rib injury while fellow flanker Ann Kerrigan also withdrew early.

Colne superiority in the scrum proved to be crucial as they won nearly every scrum to stop Nottingham from scorer.

And just before half time, Colne nearly nicked a try of their own when Josie Holmes made a break from deep inside her own half.

Good scrummaging and second phase rugby took Colne to within touching distance of Nottingham's try line but hopes of a try were dashed when the referee blew for half time.

Colne and Nelson managed to keep Nottingham and replacement Shemeen Lewis made a great try saving tackle.

But the Casuals finally breached Colne's defence and it was enough to win the match.

Colne and Nelson Ladies 0 Nottingham Casuals Ladies 5