Wigan U8’s Tri Tournament

On a mild November morning, Wigan again took part in a tri tournament held at Altrincham Kersal with Moore also taking part. A late fixture change from the anticipated trip to Kirby Lonsdale, one which the parents were looking forward to. With Kersal fielding two teams of 5 a side and Moore one, Wigan’s young stars contested in a close affair against one of the Kersal teams in the first game. With initial scores traded at each end, Wigans unusually slow start allowed Kersal to capitalise on some loose tagging. With a few stern words at half time from both coaches, the boys rallied round to take control with some fantastic direct running from Harry to pierce the defensive line. George again showed him blistering pace down the line to race past the gasping hands reaching for tags to score some of his trademark tries to ensure victory in a close fought encounter.

The second Kersal team, possibly somewhat tired as having no substitutes, pushed Wigan’s now awake players for parts of the game, however with their usual dazzling footwork both Tom C and Sam scythed their way through the field to produce some long distance tries to maintain a healthy lead. Rhys again stood strong in the central position, taking tag after tag created our usual impenetrable defensive line which on many occasions proved to be too strong, forcing the handover. With the crowd buoyed by the improved performance of the second game, their anticipation for the final game was clear to see…when they were around and not getting their coffees!

For the final game we reverted back to our familiar 6 a side arrangement and offered one of our players to the Moore side to make up the numbers. I situation which is pleasing to see as several players put themselves forward to switch jerseys (or in this case turn theirs inside out) to allow more players to be playing at once. Both Tom C and George willingly took the challenge to face their team mates (switching at half time) and add to the bragging rights of scoring tries against them. An opportunity they both grasped to the frustration of the defending Wigan boys. Jacob’s long striding legs however maintained Wigan’s attacking position as he continued to keep Wigan on the front foot. Sporting his ever present smile clearly showing the Wigan boys were having fun, especially facing one of their own.

On a day when everyone again showed their skill and ability, the decision of who to award the MOM to was as usual hard to make. But again showing his ability to be a force in attack and in defense Thomas D stood tall throughout the morning to walk away with the coveted award.

A great day out thanks to Altrincham Kersal and Moore, look forward to some return fixtures!

Next week we visit local rivals Bolton followed by the Wigan RFU Christmas party…yes it’s nearly here.