Wigan U8's v Bolton

Douglas Valley again hosted Wigan's unbeaten U8's team as they continued on their winning way. Nearly back to full strength, the team still recovering from an intense training session at Wigan Youth Zone, took charge in an encounter that seemed at times a one sided affair. The team started as they had finished the week earlier, with high intensity and continuous pressure to restrict the opposition. Several great runs from Thomas D exposed the defensive line, rewarded as he raced to the corner to put Wigan on the front foot. A position which they built on to press home their dominance. With his trade mark running, Dominic's quick feet again dazzled as he ran with his usual determination to the delight of the crowd.

As was the focus at training this week, handling was the name of the game. Both Wigan coaches have been pressing for the team to use the pass to create space, a point which is starting to sink in, as time and time again swift passing created gaps which opened up the opposition. Harry, returning from last weeks failed fitness test, ran with great determination and speed to maintain Wigan's advantage and with Rhys again pressing the line, ensured the first game was a resounding win. With his usual pace Zak's darting runs proved too much for the Bolton players as he continued to use the width of the pitch to find space and cross the whitewash with his mother's voice ringing in the air.

As the second game commenced after a short break, Wigan set off with similar determination. Tom C showed his usual focus to tag everyone that moved, ensured Wigan's defence remained strong and with George showing great pace to round the opposition and score some wonderful tries, the game seemed to be going the same way as the first.

Despite the early tries, Bolton never gave up and with Jack and Marley leading their team, the second game was a much closer affair in the first half. However after a short half time talk, the boys settled back into their grove. In what is becoming his trade mark move, Jacob again used the deceptive 'drop off' pass to give George room to run and set up another great try. With the crowd behind the home team, Wigan's strong running and determination to fight for the ball, ensured they came away with the spoils in the second game.

As usual the coaches were left scratching their heads in choosing the MOM with each player worthy of the accolade. In the end it was the small things that made the difference and with his usual speed and ability to read the game, Sam ensured Wigan remained in front. This focus proved the difference in the second game to help Wigan maintain their unbeaten run and land him the coveted MOM award this week.

Next week sees the team travel north of the border (Lancashire that is) to Kirby Lonsdale. A trip away the parents are already looking forward to due to the number of fine drinking establishments in the town. An argument no doubt in the making on the way up as to who will be driving back!! Bagsy the passenger seat Darling x