Crosfields Cobras U11′s 22 Rochdale Mayfield U11′s 10

Crosfield faced their last challenge as under 11′s and they looked up for the battle as the sun shone down.  With a slightly late kick off the game got underway with both teams running the ball in hard.

First on the charge was Josh Little and Callum Southern both looking in good form to make plenty of yards for the team.  With the ball changing pocession Danny Robb was to be denied twice in the left corner with last ditch tackles after great centre play from the unselfish Ben Dixon.  The teams were deadlocked after ten minutes and looked in for a tough battle.

On the next set good running from Sam Martin and players player James Kenny pushed the team forward.  Quick play the ball allowed Callum Talbot to release Alex Tinsley out wide to scorch in for the first score.  With the ball Mayfield ran hard but Kyle brown and Thomas Davis were standing strong.

On the next good running from the impressive Lloyd Halpin and Daniel James couldn’t find the gap and even with Joe Hands pulling the strings at  dummy half the visitors were able to score and level the game.

HT6-6

The second half began with Ben Dixon and Alex Tinsley driving forward and causing problems.  On the next quick hands from Joe Hands released Thomas Davis to cross and score a well worked try.  The game now began to stretch with the heat.  More good defence from top tackler Josh Little and Sam Martin kept Mayfield at bay.

The game was tight and Callum Southern backed by Kyle Brown made yards and then James Kenny bustled onto a bay to score a fantastic barge try with three defenders on his back.  More great cover defence from Daniel James and Llloyd Haplin one on one kept the scores the same.

With the game still in the balance the next try would be vital.  George brailey and Danny Robb ran in hard and then man of the match Callum Talbot spotted a gap and placed a wonderful grubber to the right corner for Lloyd Halpin to score and seal the win.

Today was a great game against two good teams which will teach the TEAM how to handle the hot weather and play for the whole game time.

FT22-10

Popularity: 1% [?]

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MATCH REPORT

“He was crap“ Chris Coleman, talking about the referee

The Cobras were on the road again this week with a trip to the sunny climes of Swinton, following a rather uneventful journey; much different to the last time the team visited the area (driving around aimlessly trying to find Langworthy).

On arrival the players were ushered into a changing room to put on boots and a pre-game chat. This had to be quick as the home team had not informed the staff of the game taking place; hence Crosfields had not been allocated a changing room. As the team took to the field it was clear that the day was going to be an uphill battle. Although it could be said there was a good covering of grass on the pitch, the resident flock of sheep had long since departed, and along with a slope and a big Folly Lane team already warming up , it was going to be a long morning for the players and subsequently the parents too.

Following on from his heroics at Headingley, Alex was captain for the day and after losing the “which hand is the tape in” in the middle, Crosfields were given the ball to attack first.

Immediately Dean, on the first run of the day chose to see what the home team were made of, charging ,fairly I may add, into the defence sending one player to the ground like a sack of potatoes, the follow up from Sam even better, taking the defence one way then the other, before out pacing the defence to score, at this point it was commented on from the Cobras touchline that nobody could see the cones that marked the try line, accompanied by the referee coaching the home team players, mutterings began pitch side.

“What the hell the referee saw I don’t know – he ought to go to spec savers”

Ian Holloway

On their first attack despite great tackles by Joe Kohe-Love (2) and Dean, the No.2 scored. In attack Joe Kohe-Love, Ben and Elliott took the team forward before “flyer” produced a carbon copy of his try at Headingley, to score. Again questions seemed to be raised regarding the whereabouts of the missing try line, with the referee unsure of his decision, before awarding the try. In defence a huge hit from Alex and Rav was followed by a knock on, as the attacker took his eyes off the ball to see Rav bearing down on him again. From good field position Joe.P, Tom, Rav and Alex drove down field before Sam, again showed his repertoire of skills, stepping past four defenders to put the ball down.

The home team scored again on their next set despite efforts from Sam, Rav, Alex, and Joe.P, although whether the ball was past the line of cones was very doubtful. In attack, runs by Joe Kohe-Love, Ben, Marshall, Ryan and Joe.P. were followed by Luke who was held up just short. Once more in defence Crosfields held strong Sam (2), Marshall and Ben all made tackles before Joe Kohe-Love forced the home team into touch. From the handover the first drive by Rav was met with a very high tackle that went unpunished, Alex and Sam set up play with Joe Kohe-Love eventually  being tackled into touch. More great tackles kept the Cobras line intact, and after soaking up the pressure Crosfields hit back, Dean and Joe Kohe-Love made ground,  as Ben received the ball he ran cross field side stepping through the defence past four defenders to score. From the restart the referee allowed the home team to take a quick play the ball catching the Cobras off guard to score, much to the dismay of coaches and supporters alike.

Half-Time

Folly Lane 3- 4 Cobras

From the restart the Cobras held strong preventing the home team from adding to their tally, whilst in attack Luke scored out wide, the action missed by the television crew due to technical problems. Folly Lane drove forward in the next set and after tough tackles by the blue and gold, an offload out wide provided a try. After Dean was held just short a knock on gave away possession, although Folly Lane replied in kind on their next set, and Cobras took advantage. Tom and Sam piled forward before Dean charged along the touchline pushing three would be tacklers out of the way to score. In reply Folly wouldn’t lie down with another off load providing space for a try to be scored.

“There’s nothing better than a good, blind referee” Bobby Heenan

Once again Cobras drove forward Joe Kohe-Love on a great run along with Ben and Elliott, before Tom powered his way over, although the referee did seem to be in two minds as to whether to award the try or not. More controversy was to follow, the referee ready to give a try to the home team when the player was clearly in touch, and then handing the ball over to Folly Lane, as Marshall was carried into touch even though he had been tackled. Folly Lane benefited from this as The No. 2 scooted over. Again Cobras marched forward Alex and Luke making yards, with Dean charging through to score, the referee again looked unsure and after some prompting from the on field coach, he asked Dean to play the ball, only delaying the inevitable as Sam charged over to score. There was once again controversy in the next set as the No.2 was tackled well short of the line only for the referee to immediately award a try without hesitation.

The Cobras came up with a mistake on the next set handing possession over, although Luke made amends for the error by tackling the ball carrier into touch. In their next set the Cobras failed to score, from the handover again more controversy… the No. 16 was tackled, the referee twice calling held before he offloaded for the No 2 to race in from distance, again the referee awarding the try without hesitation.  Not to be outdone, the Cobras went forward again. Alex and Dean setting up position for Sam again to score making it four tries for the day.  With time now up the referee continued to play allowing one more set and as the Cobras were still retreating from the celebration of Sam’s try the referee allowed Folly Lane to restart the game giving the No 1 all the space he needed to score.  This play immediately being followed by the call of full time.

“You don’t notice the referee during the game unless he makes a bad call”

Drew Curtis

Well done Cobra’s a great effort from you all after already playing two games in the space of one week.  Your efforts fully deserved a victory!!

Popularity: 1% [?]

Crosfields Cobras U9′s 40 v Waterhead U9′s 16

On an overcast Sunday morning, young Cobras welcomed a large Waterhead squad to Hood Lane, and both sides served up a fantastic game of mini rugby, played in excellent spirit. Cobras continued their form of late, and were buoyant following a half time appearance at the Warrington v Leeds match at Headingly on Friday. All 15 who made the trip to Leeds, turned out in a chaotic 10 minute run out against a strong Stanningley side, who had 13 to match us. Not much rugby was able to be played on the minute pitch, but the smiles on all the faces told the story, in front of over 16,000 spectators. What a fantastic experience for all the players. Highlight of the 0-0 draw was Boomer Stephensons hit on a Stanningley forward-rapturous applause from the avid watchers-well done Boomer, and all the boys. The result as ever was irrelevant, and rugby the winner again. You represented yourselves, your club and Warrington with pride and conducted yourselves accordingly.

Back to Sundays game, and I asked all 12 players to carry the enthusiasm and the memory of the Leeds night into this match, which they all did. Captain for the day Spence won the toss, and we attacked first.  AJ, Timps, Boomer and Hally took us into an attacking position, and Harry threw his trademark dummy to open the scoring. 1-0. Defending now, and Hally, carrying on from last week, was first into the tackle, and went on to win top tackler with a phenomenal 22 tackles, proving beyond doubt he had his MOJO back, which had been missing recently. Well done you. Harry, Monty James and Timps carried on the good work, and we had the ball back.

We continued to run strong, Boomer. Timps and AJ, who took a massive hit (he doesn’t half attract them), but moving the ball wide the kiler pass went down, from Harry-unlucky guys. Another big hit by Hally and Harry spilled the ball, and we had it again. A strong run and offload by Hally was carried on by Timps, and then Harry took over again and created space for Spence, whose finishing power did the rest, despite the excellent covering attempt by the Waterhead player. 2-0.  Waterheads response was swift, as they came down field and scored a deserved try, after strong defence again by Monty, AJ and James. 2-1.

End to end continued, and Timps, Spence and Monty, assisted by Boomer  gave the platform, and Harry again was the provider for Winger Timps to crash over in the corner. 3-1. Webby, G-Man and Olly came on, and were straight into the speed of the game, and a cruncher from Hally, Webby and Harry saw the ball spilled. We then saw a 3 pronged turnover follow when great hits knocked the ball loose. Following a turnover, what I have always asked for happened, when Cam made up for the error, by chasing the Waterhead runner down and forcing the error back-absolutely brilliant, well done Cam. Timps cashed in again, when after strong surges by G-Man, and Olly, Boomer turned creater when he dropped off the runner-Timps. 4-1.

Back came the Oldham side again when they scored another excellent try, 4-2.  The Oldham n0.18 was scything everything down, and despite the best efforts of Webby and G-Man, the ball was squeezed out again.  A Boomer special saw the ball back with us, and Timps again was unlucky when he double moved.  The match was being played at a fantastic pace, and both sides were running and tackling strong. G-Man, Boomer and Hally were racking the tackles up, and a great cover by Hally saw the ball offloaded to the supporting Waterhead player, brilliant team try. 4-3.

Waterhead were playing with a lot more confidence now, and another break, was again covered by both Hally and Spence, who saved a certain try, followed up by a copybook cruncher from Hally again. Love it.  Boomer, Harry and G-Man had the smell today, and were hitting everything in the middle. This was a great game to watch. Half Time 4-3. I asked us to remain patient, keep the strong running and increase the defensive effort even more. The boys responded to my request, and a cracking second half followed.

The opening set of the half saw strong defence on the line, particularly from Spence, Hally, G-Man and Boomer again, and we then responded with a fantastic Hary Wilcock break, but went into touch. More sturdy defence saw the Oldham lads kept at bay, and then a great run by Cam, saw Spence go over in the corner. 5-3.  Substitutions were made, Harry, Boomer and Timps taking well deserved rests and AJ, James and Monty returning. A stalemate followed, James and Monty getting through some work, and Hally and AJ forcing a turnover.

One of the moments of the match followed, when on a rabbit set, Olly took the 3rd hit up, and got absolutely “Mullered” by a peach of a tackle, and unfortunately had to leave the field, to return later-Well Done Olly. Another Harry special followed, after he came back on for Olly, when he again showed the ball and went-superb. 6-3.  Turnover followed again, due to excellent defence, and a Webby burst, continued on by Cam, who took a gem of a pass from Hally, saw Spence cross in the corner-great try. 7-3.

More defensive pressure from G-Man saw the ball with us again, and Spence made the ground for Boomer, with his first touch, back on for Harry, scored a well deserved individual effort. 8-3. Tight defence again saw the ball spilled, Boomer, Monty snd James  looking strong, and James took the ball back in hard, for AJ to break the line, lose his boot, but still manage to run 30 yards for an excellent try. 9-3. Waterhead never gave it up showing excellent commitment and resilience, and the little n0.12 scored a great try, beating 2 defenders on the way. 9-4.

Timps completed the scoring with a great individual burst, and fend to crash over. 10-4. Hat trick for Timperley!! Some outstanding copy book defence followed, from Hally, then Cam, who stopped runners dead, to keep the line secure. This was the key to the second half-strong, committed defence. Full Time 10-4

A very good performance, particularly second half again, where committed solid defence and the willingness to run hard and support the ball carrier paid massive dividends. An excellent match, in which Waterhead more than played their part. Well done to both squads for a superbly entertaining game of rugby.

HT 16 v 12

FT 40 v 16

Man of the Match – Harry WILCOCK

Top Tackler – Lewis HALL

Players Player – Brechan STEPHENSON

Most Improved – Louis BEAUMONT

Coach’s Award – Marcus GRADY

Scorers – Lewis TIMPERLEY 3 tries, Spencer RUDD 3 tries, Harry WILCOCK 2 tries, Brechan STEHENSON try and Andrew JOBLING try.

Popularity: 1% [?]

Langworthy Reds U9′s 16 v Crosfields cobras U9′s 24

Cobras returned to winning ways, following a hard earned victory at Swinton, against a massive Reds outfit. Following 3 consecutive defeats, despite playing well, young Cobras were looking to get back to doing the basics, and a performance was needed. Captain for the day was Rocky Rosslyn, who was in charge of a smaller squad of 11, due to unavailability. Winning the toss, we attacked first.

Playing on a very small pitch, against a huge physical side ground was going to have to be made the old fashioned way, and an opening set saw Big B, Tom Tom Neary, Jacob and Rocky hit the ball up, with a modicum of success. The last tackle was moved wide, but Boomer ended up on the end of it, and the attack petered out.  Quickly out of the line, were Jamie and Tom Tom, and following 2 good hits, the ball was spilled, and turned over, so back onto the attack in the Reds half.

Strong runs by Zak Attack, Stallion, who gets better with every match, and seems to glide over the ground and Jamie took us close, and Captain Rocky skirted round the defence as only he can for the first score. 0-1.  The Reds response was to move the ball wide, and only a great cover tackle into touch stopped a certain try. Cobras seemd to be getting stronger, and strong drives by Hally, Tom Tom, Olly then Rocky made excellent ground, but the momentum was stopped when Rocky again, ran into the 2 biggest players on the pitch on the last and got crunched- OUCH!!

Reds again on the attack, and Hally, who appeared to have his MOJO back, made two superb tackles stopping Big Big Max dead in his tracks-nice one son. This carried on and another cracker stopping the even bigger N0.9, by Stallion, and a gang tacjle meant we had kept the line in tact. Taking the ball away from the line strongly were Tom Tom twice, Zak Attack and Stallion, and the ball was stripped, and the tackle count started again. A very good tackle on Jamie saw the ball spill though, and the opportunity for further points was wasted.

Two rapid drives were kept out by excellent covering from Tom Tom and the momentum was just what the Reds required, as they crashed over in the corner for a well worked try. 1-1. This seemed to give the Reds a massive confidence boost, and folloing more turn over ball, they came straight back onto the attack and the No.9, who due to his size, was the main attacking weapon near the line crashed over, as we fell away from the tackle. 2-1.  It was becoming more and more apparent that our tacklers apart from a few, didn’t fancy taking their big units, and heads dropped.

Zak, Olly and Tom Tom took breathers and Spence, Dutchy and Cam came on to bolster the team. All 3 were immediately into their stride, with excellent runs and offloads, but the Reds defence held strong, and the ball went to ground. Reds were running strong now, and only a forward pass kept them out. Further turn over by the Cobras saw the Reds score again, when a one on one was missed, and Reds scored a fantastic try. 3-1. The awful form continued when Rocky took the first ball and was tackled into touch. Half Time.

I told a few home truths at half time, and stated that a lot of the players were letting themselves down, and were not performing anywhere near how they can, and I asked Jamie to take control of this game in the middle. Apart from his defence he had been very quiet! What a turn around followed, harsh words, for the first time this season worked.

Reds hit it up fast, but the defence was up for it now, and absolute cruncher from Rocky and Boomer on Big Max, set the pattern. Jamie followed it up with another one and then Stallion did 3 on the trot to snuff out the attack. Excellent committed running by Jamie, Spence, Boomer then Cam, saw the ball pass through lots of hands, only to be halted with a strip. Back to 0, and start again!! A second strip followed, but the momentum was with us. Boomer was held up short, and Jamie too held up, but Cam took the ball at pace, stepped and scored. Brilliant. 3-2.

Reds hit it up again but the defence was different in this half, Jamie, assisted by Hally and stallion hiitting everything, and Reds were forced into touch. A perfect set of 6 followed, with Spence, Cam, Rocky, Spence again and Stallion all taking the ball down field, for Jamie to duck, weave ad dive over for the equalising score. 3-3. Different team this half to say the least! Hally, Boomer and rocky took a rest for Zak, Olly and Tom Tom to return.  A strong recovery by the Reds saw them score a well deserved try  when for the first time in the half we fell away on the line. Well done Reds, one for the neutral this one !! 4-3.

Spence, Cam then Tom Tom laid the foundatios, and stallion glided in as only he can, taking time out from defending. Great score 4-4. Reds were straight back into it again, and a miss in the middle put them on opur line, but bodies on the line b y Tom Tom, Jamie, Stallion and Zak, assisted by Olly and Dutchy kept them out. A brilliant relieving run by Stallion saw a knock on follow, and old habits appeared to be creeping back in. Back onto defence, and Zak and Tom tom again hit them, for Stallion to halt a certain try by taking the N0.9 into touch-worth the admission money alone.

attack again, the match was end to end now, and Tom Tom, Olly and Spence took us forward, for Spence again to straighten the attack up, and pop the ball into the supporting hands of Jamie. 4-5. Great team score. Last set of 6 each, and first tackle saw Cam smash the runner, who spilled the ball. With the match looking secure, Olly took us back onto the attack, with a great run, then Jamie, Spence and Cam combined again for the try of the match, which Cam scored in the corner.. Full time 4-6.

This was definitely a game of 2 halves, and all credit to the Reds, and Bobbi, who has done a fantastic job with his small squad, some fantastic players there.  The half time “talking to ” obviously did the trick, but we should be playing like we did in the second half, in both halves. Credit to the boys though, who listended, rolled their sleeves up, and put in the right performance in that half to recover the match. Well done all of you.

HT 12 v 4

FT 16 v 24

Man of the Match – Jacob “Stallion” GALLOP

Top Tackler – Jamie BARBER

Players Player – Spencer RUDD

Most Improved – Oliver HILL

Coach’s Award – Jamie BARBER

Scorers – Cameron HENDERSON 2 tries, Jamie BARBER 2 tries, Louis ROSSLYN try and Jacob GALLOP try.

Popularity: 1% [?]

Chorley Panthers U11′s 18 Crosfields Cobras U11′s 6

The visitors made the trip to Chorley buoyed by the previous results but knew today was going to be a battle against a big Chorley side.  Warm sunshine greeted the players but the wind was to prove difficult for both teams.

The game got underway with Thomas Davis collecting the ball and driving hard at the line.  The team all looked sharp and more good running from Alex Tinsley and George Brailey pushed the Cobras forward. The home sides defence was looking strong and then with the ball in hand they looked to make yards. 

Danny Robb and Daniel James took the ball in hard but came up against strong tackles.  The game looked very even at this stage, Josh Little, Joe Hands and James Kenny muscled up in the tackle.  The game had gone nearly 15 minutes scoreless which was a credit to all players defensive abilites.  On the next set Kyle Brown, Callum Southern and Sam Martin all ran hard at the line.  On the last Callum Talbot put in a cross field kick which with one bounce was collected by Thomas Davis to score a good try.

Everyone was playing their part and more tackles from Lloyd Halpin and top tackler George Brailey just couldn’t deny the Panthers who pounced to score on the last play of the first half.  The number 11 barged over to record a good try.

HT6-6

The second half got underway in the same fashion as the first with little drop ball or mistakes just set completion.  The Cobras were really putting theirselves into the tackle against the big forwards.  Joe Hands and Thomas Davis (man of the match and players player) really led the way forward in attack and defence.

Good runs from Callum Southern and Kyle Brown came up short.  On the next set, the home side took one of their chances with the number 1 spotting a gap to jink over and score.  The Panthers looked refreshed now and scored quickly again with the number 11 going in despite good work from Alex Tinsley and Callum Talbot in the tackle.

The Cobras now looked tired and even with good effort from Danny Robb and Daniel James the home side looked to have the upper edge.  As the game went on more tackling from Josh Little and George Brailey ment the scores to remain the same.

The whole TEAM stood up today to a very big and powerful side and can all hold their heads up.  This is another example of every game improves the boys rugby league education.

FT18-6

Try – Thomas Davis

Con- Thomas Davis

MOM – Thomas Davis

Margaret Davis Players Player – Thomas Davis

Coaches Award – The TEAM

Top Tackler – George Brailey

Popularity: 1% [?]

Crosfields Cobras U11′s 34 Irlam Hornets 4

Crosfields welcomed the newly formed under 11′s from Irlam Hornets and were given a fantastic game from a great raw team.  The game started well with both teams using the ball well and good rugby being played.

Good tackling from Lloyd Halpin and George Brailey looked to regain the ball.  On the next set a great run and off load from Kyle Brown sent Callum Talbot racing away to score in the right hand corner.  A good move from Irlam came up short and with the ball back Daniel James and Josh Little both nearly scored stepping well but the Hornets kept buzzing around in the tackle.  Joe Hands and Callum Southern looked yards makers every time they got the ball.

Again with the ball Callum Southern went on one of his runs which I wouldn’t want to be in the way off, charging like a bull he score under the sticks.  More good work in defence from Sam Martin and James Kenny who were both having probably their best games of the season won the ball.  Alex Tinsley charged forward and then quick thinking from Callum Talbot with a show and go extended the score.

HT 16-0

In the second half the Cobras were told to try and let the ball do the work and boy did they listen.  Good drives from Josh Little and players player James Kenny allowed Callum Talbot to complete his hat trick by hitting and spining over the line.

As the game was drawing on the biggest cheer of the day went up as the lively number 5 for Irlam broke the line and score a good try under the sticks.  One person who was not impressed was Joe Hands who now took the game by the scruff of the neck.  Good yards from Kyle Brown and Sam Martin allowed Joe Hands to send Thomas Davis into a gap to score a good try.

On the next set George Brailey and top tackler Callum Talbot won the ball and good runing from Daniel James and Alex Tinsley saw Joe Hands again release man of the match Lloyd Halpin to scorch away to score.  The final play was again to see Josh Little marching the team forward and then you guessed it Joe Hands dummying and going before sending Thomas Davis over for his second of the day.

Great to see such enthusiasm from the new players at Irlam.  The TEAM all did a professional job taday look to be maturing every week.

FT 34-4

Try’s – Callum Talbot (3), Callum Southern, Thomas Davis (2), Lloyd Halpin

Con’s – Callum Talbot, Sam Martin, Thomas Davis, Lloyd Halpin, James Kenny

MOM – Lloyd Halpin

Margaret Davis Players Player – James Kenny

Coaches Player – Joe Hands

Top Tackler – Callum Talbot

Popularity: 1% [?]

Crosfields Cobras U11s 32 Wigan St Pats 18

Today was going to be a test for the team with the visitors from Wigan looking to put on a good display.  The game got under way with both teams looking up for the battle.

Good running from James Kenny and Callum Southern got the team moving and looking for the first real chance to score.  Another good drive and off load from Sam Martin allowed Alex Tinsley to open the scoring in the at the corner.  The home side really looked sharp but were about to be hit and hit hard by the visitors.

Good defence from George Brailey and Kyle Brown won the ball back.  Strong running from Josh Little and Danny Robb came up short.  Now with the ball the visitors moved it quick for the number 2 to go over and equal the scores.  After all the good work the home side looked a little shell shocked and were about to be met by another strong run from the number 13 to give pats the lead for the first time.

Lloyd Halpin and Daniel James took the ball on and it looked as though the Cobras were begining to come back.  With the ball again, Pats saw their chance and the impressive number 13 scored again to extend the lead.  Would the Cobras let their heads drop or go back to all the good work they had done in training in the week?.

The time was set for Joe Hands to step upto the plate and a good show and go allowed Callum Talbot to collect a good pass and step his way for a try in the corner.  As the half was drawing to a close Thomas Davis appeared to be everywhere in attack and defence.  With the scores close on the next a great break from Alex Tinsley allowed him to send players player Lloyd ‘disco’ Halpin away who was just caught short of the line.  Quick hands allowed Callum Talbot in to score and level the score at half time.

HT18-18

The game restarted in the balance with both teams up for the tackle.  St Pats were really begining to turn the screw and good defence from Thomas Davis and top tackler Josh Little looked to hold out.  On the next Callum Talbot took the ball on his line and found a gap to race away and give the Cobras the lead again with a full length try for his hat trick.

The home side really looked to push the advantage home and good running from James Kenny and man of the match Callum Southern set up the play.  With the game still evenly poised the next score would be vital.  Daniel James and Kyle Brown looked to drive forward and on the next play a great flowing move saw four players combine to send Josh Little romping away to score from distance.

The visitors still kept coming and good defence from Sam Martin and Danny Robb regined the ball.  As the game was coming to an end Joe Hands and Callum Talbot were pulling the strings and couldn’t be seperated for coaches award.  George Brailey and Lloyd Halpin made yards and to seal the game Alex Tinsley spotted his chance to hit and spin over the line to get a typical centres try.

Today showed what toughness the TEAM has now got mentally, it would have been easy to let heads drop early on.  This was again a fantastic advert for junior rugby, well done all players.

FT32-18

Try’s – Alex Tinsley (2), Callum Talbot (3), Josh Little

Con’s – Alex Tinsley, Callum Talbot, Joe Hands, Josh Little

MOM – Callum Southern

Margaret Davis Players Player – Lloyd Halpin

Coaches Award – Joe Hands/Callum Talbot

Top Tackler – Josh Little

Popularity: 1% [?]

BRIDGE CRUMBLE UNDER COBRA PRESSURE

The Cobras were on the road again this weekend, following their weekend off for the Super League Millennium Magic in Edinburgh. The team travelled the short distance to Ince Rose Bridge. With the team defending a six game winning run that stretches back to the beginning of March the players were full of confidence, despite late withdrawals from Sam, Ben and Louis. The sun was out as the players took to the field at Pinfold Street, knowing that the task ahead would be a tough one with only one of the previous four encounters between the two teams finishing with more than one try between them.

As in their last time out Cobras were forced to make late changes to the advertised line up, as Bridge were only able to field eight players. Captain for the day Elliott won the toss and chose to attack first, and what a wise decision it proved to be. Joe K.L. passing the first play the ball to Dean and within the blink of an eye he raced from halfway for the first try of the game, grinning like a Cheshire cat as he was met by his team mates on his way back. On their first possession the home team drove forward, despite tackles by Rav, Dean, Tom, Joe.P, Luke, and Joe .K.L. Bridge found space out wide to score. It was to prove to be a little more difficult next time Cobras had the ball, drives by Rav, Elliott, Ryan and Joe .P. were all halted before Luke took the ball to spin over and score. From the restart Luke brought down the No.1 after a weaving run and with Dean, Joe.P, Tom and Joe.K.L. all making tackles, a knock on by Bridge handed the ball over. Joe.K.L. then made good yards forward before Tom relieved the pressure with a great drive up to half way, backed up by Dean, Elliott and Rav, the last tackle saw Ryan drive forward as he was tackled he off loaded superbly to Luke who then ran cross field evading the last defender to dive over the whitewash. From the restart Cobras found their tackles Joe.P, Rav, Luke and tom all making great tackles to stop the home team. Joe.K.L. showed the way forward on the next set supported by Rav, Tom and Dean who with another off load was unlucky not to set up Joe.K.L. for a try. Immediately Bridge turned defence into attack, some poor tackling allowing a score in the corner.

The Cobras reply was decisive runs by Marshall, Alex and Dean put Bridge on the back foot allowing Joe.K.L. to show his skills, dancing and powering his way over the line. The next attack by the home team was scrappy, with missed tackles and off loads ending in a try, but not before the ball had gone forward, not to be seen by the referee. With the ball in hand the Cobras pressed forward. Dean charging in like a steam train before Josh was caught with a high tackle that went unpunished. A Rav drive set up play for Joe.K.L. to try to force his way over, before Luke did, weaving a path through the defence to touch down. In defence this time the Cobras held strong, tackles by Luke and a certain try saver by Kian, keeping the home team out. On the next drive Alex found the opposition in hostile mood, the No.13 seeming to punch Alex in the face causing a nose bleed. Josh, Kian, Ryan, Rav, and Joe.P. all drove forward but were unable to pierce the defence. The home team then handed the ball straight to the primrose and blue through a knock on, but the Cobras were unable to take advantage handing the ball straight back again on the first tackle. Better defence in the next set resulted in the Cobras holding out, Luke, Alex, Joe.K.L. and Kian all made tackles before Luke, Ritchie Mathers like , forced the attacker into touch just as it seemed he was about to score. Although good yards were made going forward Cobras failed to add to their tally before half time, but they were caught napping on the last play of the half as a quick play the ball by Bridge saw their player race in to score.

HALF-TIME

Ince Rose Bridge 4 – 5 Cobras

Straight from the restart Bridge were strong, but even after the referee seemingly allowed an extra tackle, Cobras still held out keeping their line intact. In possession the team also looked strong drives by Dean, Rav, Joe.P. and Kian all preceded Joe.K.L. on a great run,followed by Luke who was held up short as was Tom on the last tackle. Defensively again the Cobras were strong Marshall, Tom, Luke and Kian all making good tackles preventing Bridge from increasing their halftime score. In the next set Dean repeated his feat of the first seconds of the game charging on to a pass from Luke to gallop three quarters of the length of the field to score. From the middle Bridge went forward,  Alex making two tackles to force a knock on that was not spotted by the official, with four tackles remaining Cobras had to work overtime  to prevent a score, and they did, Luke, Joe.P, Kian and Joe.K.L. all making great tackles. From the turnover drives by Alex and Kian relieved the pressure along with Joe.P. and Joe.K.L. and Tom was again unlucky not to register a try on the last tackle. Bridge now seemed to have the red mist infront of their eyes, in the next set the No.6 first threw a punch then kicked out at Kian in a tackle, and was very lucky not to cause an injury to the Cobras No.15. From the turnover Dean produced another try out of nothing, Stepping past a would be tackler before racing fully the length of the field untouched for his hat trick. Once more the Hood Lane outfit held strong in defence, Alex making consecutive tackles and Ryan forcing the runner into touch on the last tackle.

Again the Cobras had to deal with some extreme tackling, firstly Ryan followed by Kian and then Tom all having to get on and play rugby when the referee could and maybe should have penalized the home team. In the same set Joe.K.L. was unlucky not to score, stepping inside,  when a straight run to the line would have surely seen him touchdown. Once more in defence the primrose and blue held strong Dean and Tom tackling the Bridge player into touch forcing the handover. But the pressure told with the home team forcing their way over in their next set of six tackles. Back on the attack Tom, Dean and Kian made big yards forward, before Ryan was held just short, from the play the ball Tom fed Joe.K.L. who stepped past four defenders before grounding the ball. From the restart Cobras were short of numbers, only having seven players on the pitch, not taking anything away from Ince as they scored after a fine runaround move. With the clock ticking down Cobras again made yards up field through Rav,Josh, Marshall and Alex before Kian was unlucky to be tackled into touch. On their last set Bridge scored again, with the big No.10 charging his way over from close range. With the referee calling last set of the game, the Cobras made one last effort forward, drives by Ryan,Tom and Kian made yards before Ryan again took the ball, showing how he got the nick name “flyer” racing round the Ince defence to score in the corner.

FINAL SCORE

Ince Rose Bridge 7 – 9 Cobras

Well done to both sets of players a great advert for junior rugby league.

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COBRAS VENOM BRINGS DOWN THE BEARS

As both teams arrived at Hood lane the early morning sunshine had disappeared replaced by clouds overhead. But with the grass looking in great condition for rugby league and the posts set up on the pitch, the Cobras were in no mood to relinquish their recent home record.

Captain for the day Joe K.L. won the toss and elected to attack first, and with Toa on the pitch with the players it would go on to be a great day for the Kohe Love family, although without a proper warm up, the spectators seemed unsure as to whether Toa would be able to last the first half. The Bears arrived with only eight players forcing Crosfields into a late change to the advertised line up.

Crosfields started with Luke in at standoff and from the word go it was clear that this tactic was to prove fruitful. Firstly Dean benefitting from the extra space provided, followed by Sam, who seemed to swat the opposition away like flies as he raced in from halfway to register the first Cobras try of the day.

“This coaching lark is easy” Toa Kohe Love, Cobras v Bears after 30 seconds.

With the home team now having to defend against a big West bank team, Dean and tom showed the way forward with great tackles, followed by Sam and Luke and an awesome team tackle prevented the big No.10 from forcing his way over on the last tackle. With the ball close to the Cobras own line Luke took the ball forward sprinting almost the entire length of the field before the Bears No.1 brought him down with a magnificent tackle. With the Cobras now on the attack Ben drove forward and with Joe K.L. held just short, the ball was passed to Marshall, who stepped his way through the defence for a try that his recent performances have warranted.

Again in defence the primrose and blue held solid Dean, Tom, Sam, Kian and Elliott all making tackles, and with Tom, Kian, Elliott and Dean taking the team forward Luke was held just short, from the play the ball Joe K.L. spotted a gap in the defence and darted over from dummy half. Again Cobras tackled well in defence. Although the pressure told eventually as the big No.10 found a way over from close range. From the middle drives by Ben and Louis followed by Marshall, whose try really seemed to fill him with confidence, went forward and with the introduction of Alex and Rav adding to the power going forward, Tom came up just short on the last tackle. In defence both Alex and Rav showed how valuable they are to the team, and with the Bears losing their way the ball was handed over again.

After a loose ball from Luke , Joe K.L. picked up and raced forward, following a drive by Rav, Ben thought he had scored in the corner , however the video ref said “NO TRY” as he had a foot in touch. On the next set the home team again tackled strong, Alex, Rav and Louis all combining to halt the No.10 who was proving a real handful in the Cobras side. The handover saw the introduction of Joe Payne, who had returned to the club after a while spent in the rugby league wilderness, although his time spent away had no adverse affects on his talents as he fitted straight back into the team as if he had not been away. It wasn’t long before he showed this in the best possible way, weaving his way to the line to touch down beneath the posts. On their next possession the Bears crossed the line following quick play the balls the very impressive No.1 raced in at the corner. Not to be outdone after a great run by Dean, Louis and Tom followed, giving poacher supreme Joe K.L. the chance of a carbon copy of his first try darting over from dummy half. As the first half came to a close the Bears No.3 showed great pace to go through the Cobras defence to score.

Anyone who doesn’t watch rugby league is not a real person. He’s a cow’s hoof,  or comes from Melbourne.
John Singleton Australian (1981)

Half-time

Cobras 5 – 3 Bears

The restart saw a change of personnel for the Cobras as Steve replaced Toa , although there was no change in the Cobras tackling, as the first set of tackles saw the home team prevent the Bears  from making it past halfway. In reply the Cobras came up just short, Sam taking four defenders over the line, before losing control of the ball. Once again strong defence kept the opposition out and after some fine attacking play between Ben, Marshall and Joe P., Joe K.L. danced his way over in the corner to complete his hat trick and sending the Bears No.2 into a ballet style spin. In the next set the Bears got just rewards for their hard work with the No.6 scoring out wide.

Immediately the Cobras hit back, Kian making good yards forward, before Elliott handed on to Dean to drive to the posts, from the resulting play the ball Joe P. produced a fine piece of play , using both strength and fleet of foot to power and dance past defenders to touch down next to the posts. With the Cobras day dreaming from the restart West Bank scored the try of the game, the impressive No.1 scorching over from halfway. But the Cobras were not to be outdone, a drive by Rav was followed by a barn storming run from Sam and with Alex continuing the pressure forward Kian set up field position under the posts, catching the defenders unaware and on the back foot Luke saw the opportunity and darted over.  After a set each which saw both teams cancel each other out, the Bears took advantage of a lack of discipline in the home teams defence that saw the No.9 score. The home team regrouped  from the restart and both Rav and Dean marched the team forward before Louis and Marshall were denied just short of the line, from the latter’s play the ball, Luke showed great strength powering over from close range.

Once more the Bears came forward and after a high shot by Sam, The No.10 got his just rewards for a great game scoring in the corner. With Their last possession of the game the home team were forced into touch, leaving West Bank to close out the game, driving forward again paving way for the No.3 to race down the touch line to score.

League is much, much more physical than Union, and that’s before anyone    starts breaking the rules.
Adrian Hadley (1988)

Final Score

Cobras 9 – 8 Bears

A great game played in a great spirit showing many many talents not forgetting that the players are still only under 8’s. Well done to both teams, and thanks to both sets of supporters.

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Warrington Wolves have secured the signing of Oliver Giles, a prop forward who played for the under 18s last season. Below is a copy of the report on the Warrington Wolves website.

Warrington Wolves are proud to announce the academy signing of Oliver Giles.

The club is constantly building the youth squad to provide a foundation for the future. Oliver, 17, has signed for the Wolves u18s on a two-year part-time contract from Crosfields Amateur Club.

The front-row forward was recommended to the coaches by the club’s Sales and Marketing Manager Dave Hutchinson whose son played for the same Crosfields side.

Oliver has now played six games for the Wolves Academy and remembers how fast his debut game was. “I am really enjoying the training programme and I’m learning lots of new skills that will help me develop as a player and person. I have fitted in really well with my new team-mates both on and off the field. My ultimate aim is to make first team rugby.”

Crosfield coaches Dave Reid, Russ Malley and Tony Green met Oliver 12 months ago and have since enjoyed watching him develop as a player.

Dave Reid said: “When we first met Oliver he was a raw player from Rugby Union and we were excited about watching him play. He is ideal for a Rugby League prop and we knew he was always going to be good. He listened to everything we said and took everything on board. We are very proud that he has got to this stage. John Bastian and the staff at the Wolves have got high hopes for him as a player. We wish him well in progressing further.”

John Bastian, Wolves Director of Youth Development reiterated this. “At 17 years old Oliver has lots of raw talent and has the potential to advance in the Warrington Wolves system. One of his biggest attributes is his honesty and ability to want to improve and listening to the education by his coaches and conditioners. At the moment he’s a little bit mechanical in his movement patterns but we can improve that and we need to work on his basic core skills. The other key attribute he possesses is that he plays hard and is brave in his commitment when playing the game. At 17 years old, 6ft 3in in height and 16 stone Oliver has some very good athletic attributes that will improve through the strength and conditioning programme at the Wolves.”

He added: “On behalf of Warrington Wolves I’d like to thank Crosfields RL club for their co- operation in progressing the development of Oliver on his pathway to hopefully future success.”

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