WESTCLIFF Lionesses suffered their first defeat of the season, losing 35-14 at Beccehamian Ladies.

Sophie Scanlon and Kay Edwards both scored tries which were converted by Sian Jenkins.

And Westcliff’s head coach Glen Cripps admitted it had been a tough afternoon for his side.

“It was a tough day at the office,” said Cripps.

“All the ladies put in a 100 per cent shift but it was a very physical game and we’ve come away from it with things we need to work on.

“But we’re very proud of every player who worked so hard for the club.”

Westcliff trailed 21-7 at half-time but vice-captain Susan Cripps was keen to look at the positives.

“We never gave up,” said Cripps.

“Every player should be very proud of themselves.”