Wigan U8's v Bury

On what turned out to be a glorious spring morning, Wigan’s young stars graced the hallow turf at Douglas Valley to host Bury. As the sun’s rays warmed the air, many of the players had to be stripped of their usual cold weather ‘skins’, minutes before kick-off following the warm up.

Ready for action, the players gathered for their usual pre-match discussion…what happened on Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway and how late they had been allowed to stay up last night. Their parents, having obviously forgotten about the early bedtime curfew which all players should be adhering to!

Nevertheless the coach needn’t have worried as the players took to the field with their usual determination. Having had two late withdrawals, the team was down on numbers. Up stood James, although not matching his teammates on size, his determination and ability gave Wigan the start they needed. Followed quickly by Rhys, with his trademark elusive running, he cut through the waiting defenders to extend Wigan’s lead. Having maintained pressure and forced the handover, Wigan’s players looked to push home the victory despite some strong defence from Bury. This they did, as Tom D’s quick feet left the defence gasping and with Dom’s direct running and turn of pace, saw Wigan take the first game.

Having taken on water as the sun continued to shine, the players took the break in play to discuss tactics for the second game…who wanted to play a game of tackle after the match! Having picked their teams for later, the players returned to the pitch for the second game.

Starting where they left off, Tom C rounded the defending line and glided down the wing to cross the whitewash, closely followed by Harry ‘the enforcer’ again adding to the score sheet with his usual direct running. Bury however not to be outdone struck back with some direct running and close support to post a reply. Having realised that the central defect needed tightening, Jacob took some great tags to pin Bury back and extinguish their attack. Having worked well all morning on defence, Wigan’s pace and determination forced several handovers and laid the foundation to attack the opposition’s line from close quarters. An opportunity they didn’t squander, which saw them take the second game.

Having enjoyed the sunny weather, the Wigan and Bury players gathered for the customary three cheers and handshakes. Thanks go to Bury for a fantastic morning of rugby, witnessed by a strong contingency of parents and family.

Having managed to delay the game of tackle, there was enough time to gather for this week’s MOM. Having spoken at length with the spectators and heard comments from Bury’s coach, it was agreed this week honour would go to George. Having stood strong in defence and been elusive in attack all morning, his impressive work ethic had ensured the team maintained direction, especially in the unexpected hot conditions.