Wigan U8's v Orrell

Wigan's young stars made the short journey across the M6 to face local rivals Orrell on a bitter Sunday morning missing one of their in form players as George had to withdraw due to illness. As the kick off approach, there was some tension in the air as, despite such a short drive, the team nearly had no kit and nearly lost another one of its players due to an unexpected road closure!! Fortunately the kit arrived just before the players had to venture out of the changing room to play in 'skins'.

Arriving just in time to take to the field Zack, already warmed from running from the car, set the pace of the game with some of his trademark darting runs, covering the ground with ease finding the line. Not to be outdone Rhys, who captained the team against his old club, showed his fancy footwork to also dance across the pitch on his way to crossing the whitewash. Wigan maintained their dominant attack throughout the first match to take the win despite some spirited attack from the opposition.

With the cold wind on the exposed pitch, the players huddled together to review tactics for the second game. After a short disagreement between the coach and the players - centered on pronunciation! - the boys having stopped laughing and clearly keen to keep warm, took to the field once again, to the now swelled crowd of locals, to continue where they had left off. Orrell however, had other ideas and through some great team play took Wigan somewhat by surprise with some early pressure and great tries. On the back foot, up stood Harry 'the enforcer' with his direct running and shear strength to reassert Wigan's dominance in mid field. Coupled with his 'wing man' Jacob, both players laid the bedrock for some fantastic team worked tries. With Wigan's handling skills now on show, deft passing made space for Tom to take advantage, striding down the wing to cross the line on several occasions. With Thomas D also on fine form, the 'pocket rocket' darted through gaps usually reserved for mice! Adding to the attacking line, Dominic - having clearly maintained his training regime whilst on holiday - looked as alert as ever, finding his way to the line with pin point accuracy to help take the second game.

Having made the short walk back to the local school, both teams enjoyed some hot food and the open space of the hall to run around. Gathered for the usual MOM award, the anticipation was etched on the face of the players and also the eager parents. Having been in scintillating form recently, Luke again showed skill throughout the two games to receive the honour and take away the coveted award for the second time.