Wigan U8's v Rossendale U8's

With the winter weather starting to bite, Wigan's young faithful made their way through freezing fog and ice. Having safely passed through Aspull without incidence and joined the M61, the fog lifted and the temperature increased a couple of degrees to what turned out to be a crisp but clear morning in Rossendale.

With all other games cancelled due to the pitch conditions, the fantastic facilities of Rossendale's 3G pitch ensured the game could be played, albeit on a limited sized pitch. Despite the possibility that the Christmas break may have had an affect on the players' fitness, with some heavy eating and drinking over the break, the excitement and eagerness to get back on the pitch was noticeable. Having spend some time prior to kick off acclimitising to the conditions by sliding on the icy pathways (obviously under strict supervision!), the players took to the pitch warmed and ready to continue on their winning way.

As the referee's whistle blew, the speed in attack and defence from Wigan was fantastic. Despite an early exchange of tries, the fast pace of the game was never to be relinquished by Wigan's young stars and proved to be the difference between the teams. Wigan's exceptional defence forced several turnovers, which on a small pitch was quite an achievement. Coupled with their usual attacking finesse, the game was a pleasure to watch and at times an end to end exchange of tries.

With some defining runs, Jacob carried the ball with direction and covered the ground to score in the corner. Rhys stood strong in central defence, with several darting runs despite taking a knock. Thomas D showed his usual pace eluding defenders as he ran with the ball and Dominic stretched his legs to add pace to the attacking line together with Tom whose elusive running baffled the opposition. George's usual defencive display also ensure the line remained strong and with Zack's footwork beating the opposition, the end result was wins in both games despite, at times, some very strong opposition.

Having watched on and witnessing each player play so well, making tags, crossing the whitewash - some on several occasions - and playing as a team, it was never going to be an easy decision for the Man of the Match. Yet with his continued control of the game, marshalling his troops and leading the way, Zack was justifiably awarded the prestigious award.

A big thank you goes to Rossendale for providing a warm welcome, both before and after the game, on what was a bright but cold winter morning.

Back to training on Wednesday!