Following a very successful league season Wigan Rugby Union Senior Colts (U18’s) have gone on to win the prestigious Lancashire Cup for just the third time in the clubs 111 year history!

In front of a capacity crowd, Wigan clinched the Frank Morgan Lancashire Cup against a resolute West Park Sefton side, in a tense game.

After a scoreless first 15 minutes, Wigan broke the deadlock when Jake Rigby broke from the base of the ruck and scooted through, rounding the fullback to touch down. Zack Barker converting.

Wigan continued to attack and some good hands down the left flank put Toby Rich through to score and put Wigan seemingly in total control. But the game then had a lengthy stoppage as a Wigan forward - Harvey - sustained a nasty arm break and dislocation - and Wigan seemed to lose their fluidity.

West Park Sefton were dogged in defence and, with a much larger forward pack, caused Wigan lots of issues in the loose and controlled possession well. Wigan’s defence held out though and half time the score was 12-0.

West Park Sefton came out stronger in the 2nd half and Wigans ill discipline cost them. The West Park winger broke down the right and whilst he was tackled, the referee deemed it a high shot and awarded a penalty try.

Virtually straight from the restart, West Park scored again. This time following some more good work from their forwards and crashing over from close range. The conversion was missed and scores were tied 12 apiece.

West Park Sefton had the wind in their sails and following another attack into Wigan territory another penalty was conceded and West Park took the 3 points on offer. 12-15

Wigan needed a resurgence. This came in the form of Tyler Davis whose barnstorming run through the heart of the defence caused West Park to concede a penalty in front of the posts and Zack Barker levelled the scores.

This seemed to rejuvenate the Wigan attack and following some much needed pressure in the West Park half, the ball was moved through a few sets of hands and Toby Rich crossed in the corner for his second try of the day. The conversion from out wide was missed.

Unfortunately at this point the match was halted again for around 25 mins due to a medical issue with one of the West Park coaching staff, which required the attendance of an ambulance pitch side.

The game was restarted with 7 minutes remaining and Wigan put the result to bed with another Zack Barker penalty a couple of minutes from the end.

It was a fantastic end to a great season. The lads have performed exceptionally well though out and have played a fast, expansive brand of rugby that has been superb to watch.

Man of the match today was Tyler Davis with the Coaches Award going to Jake Rigby.

Thoughts now turn to next season, with 7 of the cup final team moving up to the clubs senior teams. The club are therefore actively recruiting new players to bolster the squad. If you are aged between 16 - 18 yrs and would like to join us please get in touch wiganrufc@gmail.com