Promising Start For The Under 9s

At a drizzly Up Holland High School on Sunday morning, Wigan Under 9s kicked off their season with a hard-fought derby against local rivals Orrell.

Fielding a squad that were playing - in the most part - their first game of tackle, and in some cases, their first ever game of rugby, the team put in a valiant effort, resulting in a narrow 14-12 victory for Orrell and a thoroughly entertaining match for the brollyless mums and dads who had one eye on the game and another on the incoming 'Billinge Rain'.

The star players on the day were Henry, whose impressive tackling display and try won him the Parents' Man of The Match, and George who chipped in with some important tackles and two well taken tries - resulting in him being awarded the Coaches' Man of The Match.

Top try scorer was Wilson, who sidestepped his way over for four tries, followed by Lukus - jinking and ducking over the line for two, and Oliver who matched Lukus' two-try total, albeit in a more direct manner.

Mr dependable Benito also managed to grab a try for himself, and the busy Finlay, who got close to the line on several occasions before setting up his teammates, was given the award for most assists.

The reliable and helpful Alex proved to be a safe pair of hands, constantly in support of his team mates, and the two new boys, Harry and Jacob, put in some strong, direct runs up the middle of the pitch.

Meanwhile, the twin peaks of Archie and Will at times galloped through the Orrell tacklers, with Will picking up a try, and they look like they'll frighten many an opponent this season.

All in all, a good, promising start from a relatively inexperienced squad, and definitely a sign of bright things to come.