Under 8s – 10.30am – open car park

under 10s – 10.30am -close car park

Popularity: unranked [?]

Crosfields Cobras U11′s 16 Oldham St Anns 20

A tough game was always to be expected after their had only been one score in the previous meeting.  The weather was warm and the pitch hard ideal for fast moving rugby.

A good start from both teams showed how much quality is in this age group.  Callum Southern and George Brailey drove the ball hard at the line and good defence stopped them.  With the ball Oldham really looked to open up the Cobra’s with passing and despite good attempts from Josh Little and Alex Tinsley the visitors opened the scoring with a try under the sticks.

Would the the home side have an answer ? James Kenny and Ben McWilliam moved the ball forward and a quick play the ball saw Callum Talbot dummy and go into a gap and level the scores.  Oldham came up short in the next set with Daniel James and Lloyd Halpin really getting involved in the tackle.  Driving the ball in was Sam Martin in his best display of the season which later was rewarded with the coaches award.

Moving into the oppositon half with the ball after a bit of swapped sets, the Cobras looked menacing.  Joe Hands was revelling in the hooker roll not making any mistakes and Kyle Brown and man of the match Thomas Davis really moved the ball.  On the last Callum Talbot put a cross field kick in and great anticipation from Danny Robb saw him dive and score a great winger’s try in the right corner.

HT10-4

In the second half a switched on St Anns side collected an interception and raced away only with  good defence from Thomas Davis delayed the score as the defence couldn’t slide quick enough to stop the number 4.  Again the scores were level.  Good running from Daniel James, Danny Robb and James Kenny pushed th team on. 

As the game went from end to end their was very few mistakes given the pressure of the scoreline.  Good drives from Callum Southern and Josh Little, joint top tackler for the day, made yards.  On the next play Callum Talbot used his pace and managed to hit and spin his way over the line to score and give the home side a 16-14 lead.

Oldham were now pushing on and Sam Martin, Ben McWilliam and Kyle Brown all bent their backs in the tackle.  A break away resulted in a fantastic try saving tackle from player’s player Lloyd Halpin.  Then came a moment of mystery as the game was allowed to continue after a knock on and with the advantage Oldham were to score. 

Today was a fantastic game and no one deserved to lose.  The whole TEAM played a vital part and nobody left the pitch with anything left to give.

FT16-20

Try’s – Callum Talbot (2), Danny Robb

Con’s – Callum Talbot, Alex Tinsley

MOM – Thomas Davis

Margaret Davis Players Player – Lloyd Halpin

Coaches Award – Sam Martin

Top Tackler – Jos Little/Callum Talbot

Popularity: unranked [?]

“The day that God invented Rugby League he didn’t do anything else but sit around and feel good.” – Jack Gibson.

The Cobras were on the road this week, with a trip into the unknown at Westhoughton. After the initial get together to handout directions, the cars departed. With no roadwork’s enroute everybody arrived safe at their destination, although the home team appeared to have gotten lost as Crosfields waited patiently for their arrival. With kick off time approaching and passing, and with mutterings amongst the supporters of delaying tactics it was hoped that Crosfields would not be put off their game. With the playing surface not in the best condition, apparently the resident goat had been sent out to pastures new, and the ground hard after the days of baking sunshine, the team quickly got through their warm-up and after a last minute intake of water, were ready to go.

“I WAS NEVER A BIG FAN OF THE PRE-MATCH WARM UP” Jonathan Davies

Captain for the day Dean won the toss and the Cobras looked to continue on from last week and start strong. And how they did.

Strong drives by Alex and Rav, both of who were to go on later to win awards for their efforts, followed by Joe set up great field position, as the Lions were on the back foot, Tom spotted his chance for a quick play the ball and passed to Ben who rounded the defence to touch down near the corner. The home team’s first possession saw big tackles from Louis and Tom before a knock on saw the ball turnover, although the Cobras handed the ball back immediately through an error. With the team under pressure Joe and Kian combined to bring down the attack from the play the ball, then the No.13 weaved through the defence before Joe, again made a covering tackle to bring him down, another tackle from Tom before Louis showed his strength tackling the ball carrier into touch. From the turnover Kian drove forward taking Crosfields away from their line, from the play the ball Josh saw the opportunity to hand the ball on to Ben who took the opposition by surprise and dashed down the touchline in front of the cheering Cobras supporters, as he cut inside it seemed a certain try, but huge credit must go to the No.11 who never gave up and brought Ben down just yards short of the line. Louis found his efforts resisted and Joe was also thwarted just short, Ben took the situation by the scruff of the neck, spotting the home team being short of numbers on the left, he picked up stepped right and in the blink of an eye he was over again. From the restart tackles by Tom, Rav, Ryan, Alex and Louis kept the home team at bay. Instead of taking a break Alex took the next drive forward stepping past the first would be tackler before five defenders eventually brought him to halt. Rav was to be the next drive taking on defender after defender on a huge charge forward, much to the delight of the Cobras followers. A weaving run by Joe followed by Ryan and a charge forward by Elliott paved the way for Kian to take the ball at speed and round the defence, before diving salmon like to score at the corner.

The break in play saw the introduction of substitutes, with one having an immediate effect. Luke’s first action saw him bring down the No.1 as he raced towards the line, followed by a tackle in the opposite corner on the next play as the No.13 was bungled into touch. With Alex and Rav taking a well deserved rest after great work in attack and defence, Dean and Sam carried on from where they had left off, driving the team forward with strong runs. From a quick play the ball Joe looked to have rounded the defence to score only to be tackled just short, next was Marshall who had the door closed on him just as it seemed he was about to touch down, and when Josh charged  in he was stopped millimeters short. A panicked play the ball saw the Cobras come away with nothing. After a forward pass from the Lions, Luke passed to Tom from the ruck and he glided over on the right hand side. This try was met with particular delight as Marshall planted a big kiss on Tom!!!!!!!

The ball was claimed straight back, as the knocked on and from the resulting play the ball Tom found Luke who outpaced the defence to score. In defence themselves tackles by Luke, Joe and Sam kept the Lions out, but as the Cobras backs were turned a quick scoot by the No.8 and he was in for his team’s first try. With the Cobras keen to make amends, drives by Josh and Marshall saw Kian slice through the Lions, just as he crossed the whitewash he appeared to lose control of the ball, but the referee was happy to award the try, Kians second.

“I think you enjoy the game more if you don’t know the rules. Anyway, you’re on the same wavelength as the referees.”Jonathan Davies

With the home team in high spirits after their try, they attacked strongly with Luke, Sam, Ryan, Joe, Josh and Kian all being involved in tackles and in some cases on more than one occasion. From the turnover Dean drove forward, from the play the ball Ben fed Sam who only had one thing on his mind, running wide before straightening up he ran the length of the field, once again showing off his newly practiced dive to score. With the Cobras now pressed hard on their own line keeping possession was important, although Joe had other ideas up his sleeve, collecting the ball behind his own line once again he showed his talents, shrugging off tackles weaving and stepping, to hot foot it the entire length of the field to score.

Half time

LIONS 1 – 8 COBRAS

Straight from the restart the Cobras were caught out with the No.8 racing around Louis and Ryan to score in the corner. The Cobras were keen to hit back quickly, Tom made yards forward gliding across the surface, Rav Alex Ryan and Josh all continued the drive forward before Joe passed to Ben who weaved his way over to complete his     hat-trick. The Lions substitute was next on the ball running strong, but Joe had the measure of him, tackling him into touch. Louis took the next drive before Tom fed Joe, showing his pace to race in from half way untouched. In defence Louis showed his strength tackling , with Luke and Alex aided by Kian they forced the error from their opponents, Luke picked up the loose ball and made good yards forward, which Kian continued, at the play the ball Luke went into standoff, passing out to Tom who seemed to effortlessly eat up the turf to score in the corner. Once more in defence the Cobras were strong Alex and Rav again along with Ben, Sam, and Marshall the Cobras kept their line intact. On the next play Louis was unlucky to lose the ball, the replay clearly showing that the No.11 had ripped the ball away. This time it was the Lions turn to look strong in attack and after good tackles by Alex, Kian, Tom and Ravthe No.7 scooted over for a well deserved try. With the Cobras now playing with a standoff at every playthe ball moved about with speed. Louis, Rav and Sam all making yards before Kian, Alex and Louis again were all held up short. Louis was involved again in defence this time linking up with Sam and Kian to force a mistake. Then came the move that showed how confident the team were, Luke passing to Joe on a run around, with Joe dummying to Luke before finding the gap to go over to complete his hat-trick, putting the ball down one handed with a little glance to the side line to check dad was watching. With time ticking down Alex, three times in the set, and Joe made tackles before Sam fell on the loose ball. With Luke, Joe and Ben all alternating the standoff position a long run by Luke followed by a drive from Rav saw Joe pass out to Louis running cross field shrugging off tacklers before forcing his way over right on the corner flag, the referee happy the try had been scored. More strong defence from Louis who now had his tail up along with Ben, Alex again, Marshall, Tom and Rav once more kept the Lions at Bay.  The referee informed both teams of the last set each, as Marshall made great yards forward along with Tom before Joe passed out to Luke, allowing him to show his pace to score taking a defender over the line with him, completing what was to be his and the teams third hat-trick of the day. In the Lions last possession Dean and Sam and Joe and Luke made tackles as a dropped ball saw the end of the game.

Final score

LIONS 3 – 14 COBRAS

Popularity: unranked [?]

Match report

COBRAS v Wigan St Judes

“Few sports devised by man have aroused emotions of spectators as frequently as

Rugby League. It’s a game for all ages, with boys of five and six already involved in it

and old men who have retired keen for the weekend to arrive and with it another

chance to support the team they have followed for so many years.” –St George

Dragons great Norm Provan, 1965

Following on from the Cobras success at the Halliwell Jones Stadium, Sunday saw the visit of Wigan St Judes to a sunny Hood Lane. With the Wigan team also arriving in a confident mood a battle royale was on the cards. Crosfields arrived early themselves however with the late withdrawal of Alex, Rav and Josh, it was hoped this wouldn’t have an adverse affect on the team.

The teams lined up for kick off and fittingly it was captain for the day Sam who was to get the team up and running and set what proved to be the tone for the day, right from the word go. With Tom at dummy half the team soon followed Sam’s example, Dean running like a steam train, Luke and Joe who were both unlucky to be held just short , before Tom found Ben lurking on the left, who not for the first time this season sidestepped his way over, for the Cobras first score. The restart brought a big test for the team, defending against a huge Wigan side. The players however stood up to the challenge as Judes found it almost impossible to breakdown the home teams defence, with initial tackles by Tom and Luke followed by Dean whom almost single handedly kept the opposition at bay. With Crosfields back in possession big drives forward by Louis and Ryan along with the fleet of foot of Marshall marched the team down the pitch, with Sam and Dean trying to break through, this time however the defence held strong. Repeatedly in defence Dean made tackle after tackle, seeming to inspire his team mates, with Ryan and Joe both showing their stopping power. In possession Luke, Joe and Ben all made yards forward and with Louis taking his team close to the line, Tom fed Marshall who jinked his way through the defence for what seemed like a perfectly good try, only for the referee to refer it upstairs, and after what seemed like an eternity the video ref ruled “KNOCK ON, NO TRY”. Again Cobras showed great character in defence preventing a score, from the turnover carries by Dean and Sam resulted in Crosfields finding themselves downfield, with a quick play the ball Tom passed to Luke who showed his pace to round the defence and score in the corner, although television replays were to later show that the try was given courtesy of the on field ref as the cameraman was unable to catch the action of the try being scored. The break in play allowed Elliott and Kian to enter the play and with both players immediately into the action making tackles in the Judes next set of six, as the Cobras again kept the visitors scoreless. From the handover big yards were gained by Joe, Ben and Louis allowing Kian to run at the retreating defence to register his second try in two games since his return to the team. The defensive efforts from the team were immense and it took its toll in the next set as the Judes No.10 ran in almost untouched at the corner. The next set saw Elliott into the action driving forward and after Kian’s weaving run, Sam’s drive gave Dean the reward for his hard work with a bulldozing run through the defence to touch down. From the restart Judes were forced into touch, from the turnover Luke drove forward, seemingly tackled the defence held off; however he managed to break free and sprint untouched to the line, the cameraman this time making no mistake with the pictures. With the sun now taking its toll the home team seemed to be praying for the half time whistle, as the big Judes No.8 bounced off some tired tacklers to spin over for his team’s second touchdown. The tiredness seemed to quickly disappear, as Tom drove forward and with Louis jumping into dummy half he passed to Joe and like a ball in a pinball machine he bounced, dodged, weaved, danced, sidestepped and handed off his way to the line as he appeared to hot step it past the entire opposition team before diving across the whitewash. With time ticking down Judes drove forward, Elliott bringing down the No.14 with a fantastic one on one tackle. The half finished with the winger stepping into touch just before he was able to ground the ball.

HALF TIME
Cobras 6 – Judes 2

“If Walt Disney had seen this little man’s antics, there’d have been no Mickey

Mouse.” – Ray French, BBC TV (do you think he was talking about Marshall Jones).

The team enjoyed their well deserved half time drinks and with “more of the same” ringing in their ears the second half began. And more of the same it was, Cobras showing they could repeat their efforts of the first half, by preventing Judes from scoring. From the handover a strong drive by Sam, followed by a quick play the ball by Ben allowed dean to this time show his pace as he outraced the defence to score in the corner. From the restart Judes made good yards forward, after good tackles from the home team the No.8 charged over from close range. Again Cobras went in search of further points and after runs from Tom, Elliott, Joe and Marshall, “flyer” Farrell stepped forward to weave and step his way past four defenders to go over for what was also his second try in consecutive games. The opposition made changes and not only to playing personnel. The introduction of a standoff into the play allowed their attack more time, with the change paying dividends immediately as the No.4 left Tom flat footed to score. Louis took the first drive from the middle of the park and was unlucky not to score, only being dragged into touch just as it seemed he was on a clear run to the line. From the play the ball Judes produced one of the best bits of rugby during the whole game. No.4 racing fully three quarters of the length of the field to score, but not before Ben who had spotted the danger early in the play raced cross field to attempt to cut off the run. With a stoppage in play Luke re-entered the field. After Deans initial drive, Ben found Luke who seemed to find an impossible route through the defence to score. The next set saw te Cobras snuff out the attack, both Marshall and Elliott realizing the danger of the Judes new tactics and racing out of the defence to snaffle the attack.

From the turnover Tom drove forward appearing to glide effortlessly across the turf, before being hauled down by four defenders. Then came Cobras reply to the opposition No.4 try, Joe received the ball well inside his own half before slicing through the defence like a hot knife through butter on his way to the line, punching the air with delight as he crossed the line whilst casting a quick glance to the touch line just to check mum was watching, as if to say “see mum whatever dad can do I can do too”. Great tackling from the restart saw the Cobras keep the opposition out, again with the ball Cobras looked dangerous Luke, Marshall, Kian and Dean all making forward yards before captain for the day Sam grabbed his chance to get his name on the score sheet again following his try at the Halliwell Jones Stadium, with a charge towards the line knocking defenders out of the way, before showing off his new dive he had been practicing with his dad. Judes again didn’t give up and after good yards made going forward the No.13 found a way over despite strong efforts from the defence.

As the ref announced last set each Ryan took the first drive and unbeknown to anybody else, and met with total shock and disapproval by his coach, just hurled the ball American football style into the air. With Judes now having their last chance to post a score, Cobras again held strong with Kian closing out the game by driving the runner into touch followed by a cart wheel of celebration as the final whistle blew.

FINAL SCORE

Cobras 11 – Judes 6

The game was played in fantastic spirit with some exceptional rugby on display from both teams. Well done to everyone involved.

Popularity: 1% [?]

Atherton Dragons U9′s 16 v Crosfields Cobras U9′s  36

Cobras continued their fine recent away form with a fantastic performance at Atherton Dragons on a sunny Sunday morning in Manchester.  A squad of 13 made the short journey, and captain for the day James GERAGHTY won the toss, and we started on the attack.

The forwards took the ball up first, testing the Dragons defence, G-Man, Jack and James paving the way, then Harry took over, first releasing Jamie then a long pass to try and release Cam was put down, and good Dragons defence had forced a turnover. Big HENRY was first up for the Cobras defence, and it took 5-6 to take him down (he is a big old unit), following this came a break which was covered back by Jamie, then Harry came up with a crunching hit to break up the attack. Dragons threw the ball wide, but Jacob and Rocky broke the attacks up, and passing the ball along the line again it went to ground.

The same forwards hit it up again, G-Man, Jack and James, before Harry threw one of his trade mark dummies, went through the gap, but the pass to the support players went to ground- unlucky. It was coming you could sense it. Dragons attacked again and HENRY took it up first but Jamie stopped him, with a copy book tackle ably assisted by Monty. The ball was passed down the line again, and the very lively No. 4 who was looking dangerous with every touch tried to outpace the cover, but Jacob was up to the task, and along with Monty and Jamie kept them at bay.

G-Man again took the ball up strong, making good yardage, carried on by Harry, who made a fantastic break, but the cover recovered. The momentum was continued by James, then Rocky took over, and beating 4 defenders scored a great try in the corner. 0-1. On the defence again, and Monty and G-Man were hitting strong, followed by a cruncher from James, who stopped man and ball dead in his tracks. Dragons tried to go wide again, and were constantly probing for an opening, but Jacob and Rocky had the flank sewn up. A frustrated long floated pass was plucked out of the air by Cam “The Poacher” Henderson, who embarked on a 50 meter dash to the line. Excellent reading of the game 0-2.

Dragons continued to play rugby and were causing problems for the Cobras but the line stayed in tact, with Monty, Jamie,  Harry and in particular Jacob and Rocky scrambling well. Jack and G-Man lending their weight to the cause in the middle. Steady progress was being made, but a lost ball saw turn over conceded. A rabbit set followed, away from our line, when first Harry then Jamie made superb meters down field, and only a brilliant cover tackle stopped Jamie from scoring a great try. Well Done Dragons N02-superb commitment. Subs came on, Zak, Spence, Webby and Tom Tom Neary for Jack, James, Monty and G-Man. Added impetus.Further drives, by Tom Tom, and probings by Harry came to nought as Rocky tried to repeat try 1, but was caught in possession on the last.

Webby, who has really impressed me in the last few games, was straight into the tackles, making 3 out of the next 4, and only a great cover tackle by Jamie kept the line in tact, until on the last we defended the dead ball line, instead of the try line and a simple scoot made it 1-2. Well spotted Dragons. Spence immediately took the ball up hard, and made a 40 meter bust before Rocky, learning from every game ran at the defensive gap where the ref is and the line couldn’t close quick enough. Great opportunist try. 1-3. Half time. I was very pleased with our efforts, particularly with the ball, but asked us to step it up in defence, particularly technique.

Dragons attacked first, and after a good gang tackle dropped the ball on the second. The foundations were then laid, with solid hit ups from Webby, Spence and Zak, giving the platform for Harry to create space for Jamie, step, and inevitably a 30 meter dash to the line 1-4. Great start. Dragons response was swift, strong carries took us onto the back foot, and a missed tackle allowed the strong running N0.11 to run to the line 2-4. Nice try.

Another good set of 6 followed, and excellent running by Webby, Spence GMan and Tom Tom Neary twice saw us move the ball at speed along the line, but the killer pass went down. Good defence followed, and Webby, Marcus and Harry showing up well. We then took the game back to the Dragons, and drives by Spence, Zak, Webby and Jamie took us within striking distance for Harry again to put Tom Tom away down the flank, and he scored a great try that took some scoring. Welcome back Tom NEARY!! 2-5.

Dragons response again was immediate, 2 drives took them down field, and a super step by the excellent N0.4 took him around the cover 3-5. Super individual try. The game was end to end now, and after Webby and Zak hit the ball up, Spence created his own space with a fine step, and raced 30 meters for another great individual try. 3-6.  Again immediate reply, No.2 scoring another fine individual try. 4-6.

Webby again and a strong James burst, saw Jamie onto the ball, show and go the rest is history. Acceleration did the rest. 4-7. Jack came back for Zak, and excellent defence again particularly by Cam, who intercepted again to break up the Dragons attack, saved the line. Lung busting run by Spence cleared the line, and was carried on by Tom Tom and Jacob; Jamie had taken over from Harry as creator now, and dummied, made the space which is all Spence needed, showing excellent awareness and support play to score in the corner. 4-8.

A brilliant defensive set followed, Cam again in the thick of it, and the line was again kept in tact. Turn over ball saw us end up in touch, and the last set followed for the Dragons. They battered the line, and knocked at the door, and even a repeat set  couldn’t see them repeat theair earlier heroics, Spence standing out, well supported by Jack and Tom Tom.   Desperate passing ensued, and poor HENRY threw a long one and it was again plucked out of the sky by the ever alert Cam, who raced 60 meters unopposed, to dive”Super League Style” under some imaginary posts! Great finish. 4-9.

This was a great game of rugby, and we scored some fantastic team tries today, but the scoreline didn’t reflect the Dragons effort and commitment, and at times they totally stretched us defensively, with some fine attacking play. I have watched the DVD twice now, and they are a good side, and I personally look forward to meeting them again.  Lets continue this fine away form at home fellas, and upgrade our tackling, particularly the technique. Well done, all of you very proud as always!!

HT 4 v 12

FT 16 v 36

Man of the Match – Cameron HENDERSON

Top Tackler – Jacob GALLOP

Players Player – Cameron HENDERSON

Most Improved – Tom NEARY

CoachsAward – Jamie BARBER

Scorers – Cameron HENDERSON 2 tries, Jamie BARBER 2 tries, Spencer RUDD 2 tries, Louis ROSSLYN 2 tries, Tom NEARY try.

Popularity: 1% [?]

Crosfields Cobras U11′s 6 Shevington Sharks 24

The day began with warm sunshine and looked all set to be a really close game given only four points seperated the teams in the game before Christmas with the Cobras successful.

The Sharks got the game underway with a short kick off and the Cobras run hard with Josh Little and George Brailey leading the way.  Good defence kept the Cobras out despite further strong running from Callum Southern and Ben Dixon.  The game was proving to be tight and remained scoreless for the first ten minutes.  It was the Sharks who were to open the scoring capatalising on simple mistakes near the home sides line to score.

Danny Robb and Kyle Brown drove the ball in and the sharks looked beatable.  Again more good runing came from Daniel James backed up by Joe Hands but this cam up short.  On the next play James Kenny and top tackler George Braley pushed the visitors back.  A quick play the ball allowed the nippy number 7 to jink over to extend the lead for the visitors.

The challenge was laid down fron the Cobras and on the next set good runs from Alex Tinsley, Sam Martin and Lloyd Halpin took the game to the visitors.  Callum Talbot spotted the gap and split the line to score a good try from distance to bring the scores closer. On the next play the Sharks were not going to be beat and scored another try from close range.  With the last play a kick over the top was just unable to be gathered in by Lloyd Halpin.

HT 6-14

The game kick off for the second half with Sharks in poccession.  Good tackles from Alex Tinsley and top tackler George Brailey shook the sharks.  More strong runs from Joe Hands and man of the match Callum Southern were making good momentum.   The Sharks defence was holding firm and looked unbreakable’ even Lloyd ‘Disco’ Halpin couldn’t find a way through despite a trademark mazy run.

On the next set the Sharks were able to find the try line despite the efforts of Ben Dixon and Thomas Davis.  The game now became littered with mistakes as the warm weather began to take it’s toll.  Good work at dummy half from Daniel James got Sam Martin and coaches player Joe Hands pushing the team forward.

As the game drew on more good defence from Josh Little and player player Callum Talbot kept the visitors out.  On the next to last set the Sharks crossed again to complete the scoring for the day.

Today was about composure and the TEAM will learn from the experience.  As games get tighter in the future the boys will understand doing the basics right is vital to win games.

FT 6-24

Try’s – Callum Talbot

Con’s – Callum Talbot

MOM – Callum Southern

Margaret Davis Player’s Player – Callum Talbot

Coaches Award – Joe hands

Top Tackler – George Brailey

Popularity: 1% [?]

Saddleworth Rangers 14 Crosfield Cobras 24

Crosfields made the long journey to Saddleworth wanting to put in a strong performance before the Easter break.  With almost summer sunshine the game looked set for good rugby even given the heavy pitch.

Crosfields took the ball up at the start with Joe Hands and James Kenny leading the way.  Despite good yards made the homeside regained the ball and solid tackling from Josh Little and George Brailey kept the scores level.  Again with the ball the visitors raced forward,  Callum Southern and Sam Martin drove hard.

Saddleworth came again and more tackles from Daniel James and Kyle Brown won the ball.   Alex Tinsley and Danny Robb took the chance to run hard and dent the line.  Quick play the ball allowed Callum Talbot to slip out a pass for Ben Dixon to race over on the left hand side.

Saddleworth were kept at bay again by tackles from Thomas Davis and Kyke Brown.  More strong play gave Joe Hands the chance to set up Ben Dixon to cross for his second of the morning with a good try.  The Rangers were not to be denied and after one of the visitors first mistakes they crossed to complete the first half scoring.

HT6-12

On the start of the second half the Cobras looked ready to race away with the game.  This wasn’t to be with good tackles going in on Sam Martin and Callum Southern to slow the play.  On the second set after a repeat set the team took a chance Callum Talbot and Thomas Davis laid the platform for Josh Little to crash over and score.

With the game looking to be going away the home side doug in and given strong line defence from Alex Tinsley and Danny Robb they couldn’t prevent a barge try from the number 15.  The next score would now be vital.  Both teams gave it their all and top tackler Thomas Davis and players player Daniel James really bent their backs in the tackle.

With the gaps appearing a fantastic barnstorming run from George Brailey, who later got man of the match, came up short of the line.  Quick thinking from Ben Dixon saw him scoot from Dummy half and complete a great hat trick.  More good defence followed and Kyle Brown, Sam Martin and Callum Southern all working hard.

In the last parts of the game Danny Robb, Daniel James and coches player Ben Dixon all made good yards.  With the clock ticking on the last set the home side moved the ball wide and despite strong sliding defence the try was awarding giving the ‘benefit of the doubt’ to the attack to complete the game.

A real end to end affair today and the whole TEAM worked harder in defence but need to run better angles in attack to gain more impact.  Overall a good spectical for junior rugby played in the right spirit.

FT 14-24

Try’s – Ben Dixon (3), Josh Little

Con’s – Ben Dixon, Thomas Davis, Josh Little, Alex Tinsley

MOM – George Brailey

Player Player – Daniel James

Coaches Player – Ben Dixon

Top Tackler – Thomas Davis

Popularity: 1% [?]

Match report

COBRAS V REDS

The things dreams are made of, 11,000 spectators, a proud club and parents bursting with pride that their children are playing on the same turf as their heroes.

As both teams took to the pitch nerves were clearly visible, but not for long. As the whistle blew the first drive from Sam set the tone of the game, with a blockbusting run, that took 6 players to eventually pull him down, followed up by Luke who was held up just short, further drives from Tom and Alex who themselves were unlucky not to get on the score sheet, with only last ditch efforts by the Langworthy defence preventing a score. But with Marshall again directing play from dummy half a quick pass to his left found Ben who ran wide before outwitting the defence with a side step to score untouched, his try being met with a huge roar from the full South stand.

Immediate pressure from the restart forced an error, from the play the ball Louis made good yards down the right, another quick play the ball from Marshall set Ryan “the flyer” Farrell away,  outstripping the defence to scorch in at the corner “is that Chris Riley” was the shout from the applauding and admiring spectators.

From the restart came Langworthy’s first real possession, Crosfields now taking their turn to defend, and how they did. Sam shaking the Halliwell Jones to its foundations with a huge hit on the No.11, great tackling from Louis and another huge hit from Joe, showing Sam that whatever you can do I can do too, kept Langworthy at bay. From the turnover Joe showed his power going forward, making a break down the middle past half the opposition team. Marshall followed by jinking and stepping past defender after defender before being brought down. Again Sam took the ball forward, next saw Luke, who like a carbon copy of the try from Ben, sidestepped through the defence to score with his now customary dive over the whitewash. Again the South stand showed their appreciation. The short break allowed Crosfields to make changes Elliott, Rav, Josh and Kian all taking their places in the team, but it didn’t affect the Cobras as their great defence continued, with Tom and Joe leading the way, and Josh immediately into the action making two great tackles in the same set, giving Langworthy little chance to attack. Rav continued his rich vein of recent form, taking a drive forward before 5 Langworthy defenders eventually brought him down. From the resuming play the ball Elliott provided the crowd with one of the best pieces of skill on show all afternoon, receiving the ball from Luke he feigned to run left and with the Langworthy defence in two minds, a quick side step and he was away down the touchline, with the roar of the crowd in his ears only a last ditch tackle by the Langworthy No.12 prevented Elliott from opening his scoring account for the Cobras on the biggest stage of all, although it did need a referral to the video referee  for confirmation. With Langworthy now pinned against their own goal line great tackling from Sam and Kian kept the pressure on, and with Rav following up his forward work with tackles in defence, Langworthy found it difficult to escape down field. From the handover Josh took the ball forward setting a platform for another Cobras attack, from the ruck the ball found its way to Kian and as if he had never been away from the team he ran wide right before side stepping inside the defence to dive over for the Cobras fourth try, to more cheers from the stands.

With time now against the Reds the No.1 tried to break down the Cobras defence but with little luck as he was soon bungled into touch. The referee blew his whistle and the two teams shook hands, but not before the South stand showed their appreciation again, applauding both teams off the pitch. Final score Cobras 4 Reds 0.

We are sure Tony Smith was aware of the goings on during his half time cup of tea, as the Warrington team seemed to be spurred on by their junior counterparts, as they also kept the opposition try less.

Well done to both sets of players who represented the teams, everybody is very proud of all your efforts.

Thanks are due to Alan Kilshaw (Service Area), who arranged this game, with help from (Our Own) Kate, Warrington Wolves who obviously staged it and allowed a video to be taken, which the kids now have as a reminder, and the roar of an appreciative crowd. Thanks.

Popularity: 1% [?]

Under 18s – Conference Pitch – 11.45am – Changing Rooms 7 and 6 – Close Car Park

Under 17s – Alliance Pitch – 11.45am – Changing Rooms 5 and 4

Under 13s – Conference Pitch – 10:30am – Changing rooms 7 and 6

Under 11s – Alliance Pitch – 10:30am – Changing rooms 5 and 4 – Staff Bar 11.30 – 12.30

Under 10s – Mod Pitch – 10:30am – Changing Rooms 1 and 2

Under 8s – Mini Pitch 1 – 10.15am – Changing rooms 1 and 2 – Open Car Park

Popularity: 1% [?]

Leigh East U9′s  16 v Crosfields Cobras U9′s  28

Cobras bounced back from last weeks disappointing effort, to register a fine team performance at Leigh East, on a crisp sunny spring morning. A squad of 11 players made the short journey along the East Lancs, and the parents and supporters were rewarded by some excellent tries. Captain for the day, Dutchy HOLLAND won the toss, and we attacked first.

We started with the perfect set of 6, as strong drives by AJ, Hally and Webby laid the foundations for Harry to take over and spread the ball wide early, giving the killer pass, to send Cam into the corner; 1-0. Excellent start, strong running and ball wide, exactly the opposite of last week. A great hit by AJ, on the first tackle saw the ball lost forward, and we had the ball back.

Direct running by Rocky, followed up by AJ, saw a great tackle by the East No.1 stop him dead in his tracks. Harry offloaded to Hally, who made good metres, and a quick play the ball, and excellent service from Rocky to Harry, saw the ball go wide again, to be put down- unlucky. AJ followed up his strong attacking start with some impressive hits, well supported by Harry, Monty and Webby, and the ball was lost again. Excellent East defence, especially by the lively No.1, kept Cobras out, and after relieving runs by Spence, Cam and Rocky, we ended up in touch.

East started to throw the ball about, but the Cobras defence was up to it this week, and were sliding and scrambling well, Spence, Dutchy and Hally, supported by Cam and Rocky thwarting their attacks. Harry, Webby, Monty and AJ looking very strong down the middle. The game was being played at a great pace, and East were playing well, but AJ and Hally were up for it, and great cover tackles by Rocky, followed by 2 crackers from Harry kept them at bay again.

The try of the match followed, when great carries by AJ, Spence then Webby, set the platform again for Harry to pass onto Cam, who cut back inside, and following a weaving run, when halted by the cover offloaded to Spence to score a fantastic try in the corner. 2-0. Another good set by East saw them actually get over the try line, but the ball was bounced and no try was the decision!

Olly and Timps came on for Dutchy and Webby, and another strong defensive set, AJ, Monty and Harry showing up well again saw turnover ball. The game was end to end now, and again strong surges by Timps, Cam and then offloads saw Rocky held up short. The ball was moved back the opposite way, but the pass dipped in the wind, and the try went begging. The next score came following great approach work by Monty and AJ, and finally Cam who stepped, and weaved for his second. 3-0. A last set of 6 followed for East, but again sturdy defence especially by Cam, Spence and Monty saw a ‘piley on’ at the last tackle for the half time whistle to go.  HT 3-0 to Cobras.

I thought we had played an excellent half of rugby and told the lads to keep up the work, and to keep moving up together in defence. East started with the ball in the second half, and attacked well, moving the ball from left to right, but Hally, Monty and Spence kept them at bay. The tackling was being spread out, amongst the players and everybody was getting stuck in.  East seemed to want to get a bit more physical in this half, and an edge came into the game, which saw handbags at 5 paces, and the No.1 and Harry were sent to the side to cool down for a bit.

Match continued East on the attack, and only brilliant tackling by Olly, Hally and Cam kept them out, until the ball squirted loose from a tackle and when all the Cobras players stopped the East No.10 scooped the ball up and scored. Always play to the whistle guys, the ball went backwards!! 3-1 Cobras came straight back, when Spence and Timps set up field position for Harry to pass to Webby who dropped off Spence again to skirt around the cover, and score in the corner. 4-1.

The game was getting stretched now, and AJ and Monty had been replaced by Webby and Dutchy, who were straight back into the tackle. East were running stronger than ever and another great tackle by Hally, to stop the ever direct No.12, was repeated by Cam out wide, but we then fell off the next one for East to cross for their second 4-2. Well done fellas, nice try. Spence, Olly and Harry took play into the East half, and Timps saw glory, but plonked the ball down on the corner cone (which is out Timps despite your protestations!!) so East had the ball again.

More in your face defence by Olly, Spence and Hally saw the ball dropped, and Webby took the first one up hard, making good ground, and Spence then broke the cover to run 30 metres for an excellent score. 5-2. Straight back again came East to make it 5-3, another close range try, when after good sturdy defence, we fell away at the vital time. Hit ups by Cam, Rocky, Olly and Hally, saw Harry again take over, and changing the direction of play with his own inimitable dummy he put Cam into space. Superb dive 6-3. Hat trick each to the 2 best mates!!!!!

Straight from the play the ball the East No.12 broke the line, and the momentum saw them cross for a great try 6-4. Last set of 6 to Cobras, and AJ returned for Hally. First Dutchy, then AJ made massive metres, continued on by Rocky, saw the icing on the cake from a personal perspective, when Harry threw the most outrageous dummy, which half the East team, myself as ref. and most of the spectators all took – TRY. 7-4. Well done HARRY. Full time.

A very good game, played with great passion by two committed teams, who were willing to throw the ball about, and entertain. A far better team performance by the young Cobras; but we still go to sleep on our own line, at times. Well done everybody, and at last the work, with and without the ball, is now being spread amongst the 9 on the pitch. Excellent. Well worth a viewing this one on DVD, parents.

HT. 0 – 12

FT. 16 -28

Man of the Match - Spencer RUDD

Top Tackler – Harry WILCOCK

Players Player – Harry WILCOCK

Most Improved – Louis BEAUMONT

Coach’s Award - Cameron HENDERSON

Scorers – Spencer RUDD 3 tries, Cameron HENDERSON 3 tries, Harry WILCOCK try.

Popularity: 1% [?]