LUDLOW-born rugby star Lark Davies is relishing her chance to impress at her new “second home” when England take on New Zealand again this weekend.

Davies scored one of England’s seven tries as they thrashed the Black Ferns 43-12 in Exeter on Sunday – and the two countries meet again at Northampton’s Franklin Gardens this Sunday.

Davies’ club side Loughborough Lightning’s link-up with Northampton Saints will see the latter’s headquarters host several Allianz Premier 15s games.

“It will feel like a real home game for us as Lightning players,” Davies said. “We’re really excited to have a crowd there getting behind us.

“As Lightning players, it’s important for us to show what the women’s game is all about and the link-up with Saints is crucial.

“It’s key not just in terms of driving us as a Premiership team but also driving women’s and girls’ rugby in the area.”

l England Women take on New Zealand in the second of their autumn internationals at cinch Stadium at Franklin's Gardens. Tickets can be purchased at: northamptonsaints.co.uk/buytickets

On the local rugby front, Ludlow slipped to a third straight defeat in Midlands One West, losing 33-21 at leaders Lichfield.

In Midlands Three West North, Clee Hill thrashed Veseyans 63-0 but Cleobury Mortimer lost 24-12 to Burntwood.

Ludlow’s three hockey teams all won. The men’s firsts beat Edgbaston 3-0 as 16-year-old Luke Matthews, Andrew Richards and Jake Watts scored.

The seconds beat Aldridge and Walsall 4-0 as Calum Darrer, James Vickers, Mark Sandell and Jasper Kenchington struck while Emily McBride (2) and Georgina Morris gave Ludlow Ladies a 3-1 win over City of Birmingham.