Witney Angels started their Midlands 2 campaign with a 12-5 victory over Longton Ladies.

Longton led 5-0 at the break, but an inspired Angels pulled out the stops to snatch victory.

Catherine Forteath's try pulled Witney level, with Jessica Paterson's conversion giving them the lead.

The second try came from 60-year-old Debbie Gorrod, who went over the line with Forteath to score.

Henley Ladies put in a creditable display in losing 41-7 at title favourites Bath in their Championship 1 South opener.

The visitors' spirit was great to see and some of the individual touches from full back Martina Ashton continually caught the eye.

Henley’s try was scored by centre Zoe Farrell who tore through after a clean break by fly half Louise Gray.

Meanwhile, Henley's England prop Rocky Clarke has accepted a professional offer from Premiership side Blaydon.