The visitors started in strong fashion and scored an early try to move 5-0 ahead, but Abbey hit back courtesy of a fine break down the right by Jo Richards which resulted in a converted try.

The admirable acceleration and faultless footwork of Richards put her side ahead in the second third, as she sprinted across the whitewash to extend the advantage to 12-5.

However as the game began to break down, Maidenhead battled back and levelled the scores through a converted try.

Yet with a strong Rose Hill following behind them, the Nuns lifted themselves again and Charlotte Tugwell released youngster Snorthover to complete a fabulous try with a surging run.

Although Annabel Hawkins missed the resultant conversion, Abbey extended their lead further through young wing Natalie Bow, who fielded a ball in her own 22 before showing searing pace to bag her first try for the club. With Hawkins adding the two points with the boot, Abbey led 24-12, and although they conceded a late try, the Nuns were well worth their hardfought victory.

l SAM Hallett (pictured below) captains Reading Abbey for another Berks, Bucks & Oxon Premier League league campaign which kicks off in Kidlington on Saturday against Gosford All Blacks (3pm ko).

The club is aiming to bounce back after last year’s disappointing relegation and there will be some new faces including flying winger Dylan Baptista, who impressed during pre-season.

Will Handley has also earned a place on the bench in what could be his first appearance for the club.

Elsewhere scrum half Will Bevan and Jim Mallon are welcomed back - both having taken a year out.

Last week Abbey had a rest day as Aylesbury United had withdrawn from the league, whilst Gosford All Blacks - one of the stronger clubs in this league - put in an impressive 61- 5 win over Phoenix.