SARACENS averted an upset at the hands of Loughborough Lightning with two second-half tries completing a comeback win.
In a clear sign that the gap to Saracens and Harlequins is closing, Lightning stormed to a 24-12 lead just prior to the break. But Saracens found time to score through influential flanker Marlie Packer to give the hosts the impetus needed to uphold their unbeaten record in 2020 in the second half.
Captain Lotte Clapp ensured it was Saracens first on the board with a try in the corner, after Zoe Harrison picked out the winger with a pass out wide.
Lightning hit back through a driving maul which was finished off by hooker Lark Davies.
But, following strong carries by Kelsey Clifford and Holly Aitchinson, Saracens edged back in front through a try from Harrison who evaded two tackles en route to the line.
Lightning's response was immediate as Davies went over for her second try following by another for Rhona Lloyd, before Packer crossed over just before the interval.
It had been a half of frustration for Saracens, but the effect of Packer's try was clear to see when the match restarted as Harrison and Poppy Cleall kept the ball alive via offloads for May Campbell to dart over.
A missed conversion kept Lightning ahead by two points, but Sophie de Goede was there for the crucial try after Cleall had initially been held up short.
Saracens held on despite a late sin bin to Harrison at the ruck after Helena Rowland hared towards the line.
