Wigan U8's v Littleborough

Wigan U8’s travelled to their furthest rivals in what was billed as the season decider. Having entertained Littleborough at home earlier in the campaign - and only narrowly posting a win - the team had expectations of facing a stern opposition.

With their unbeaten record on the line, everyone arrived focused with only one thing on their minds…'can I have an ice cream after the game', as the children walked passed the strategically placed ‘Mr Whippy’ van in the club carpark! Despite the early distraction, the sun was shining and buoyed by the return of the Italian boy wonder, Sam, having flown in especially for the game…not as some believed to see his family having been living in Italy since January…the early signs were good. The players gathered in the changing room for their now customary warm up routine, and a last chance to ask Sam to speak Italian, before heading out onto the pitch.

As the teams lined up in the wonderful sunshine, the eagerness was clear to see. Littleborough chose to take the tap start and Wigan set their defensive line. A sense of tension filled the air, as player and spectator alike, awaiting the referees whistle…unfortunately the referee had forgotten his whistle and had to revert to simply shouting (not surprisingly something he didn’t have a problem with!).

The game started at full pace as the Wigan boys applied pressure on the attacking Littleborough team. This swift approach soon forced the hand over which Wigan didn’t waste posting an early try. The shear speed and effectiveness of Wigan’s defensive line continued to restrict Littleborough’s advances, soon providing Wigan with a healthy lead. Central to the defensive effort was Rhys, whose speed and determination ensured the opposition had little room in midfield to create any advantage. On the attack, Wigan gave little away and some scintillating running by Zack resulted in some great full length tries. Thomas C, not to be outdone, pushed home the advantage with his usual meandering running, by cutting through the defensive line to score. However some great running and pressure from the Littleborough players, ensured the game wasn’t a one was affair, but having imposed the early pressure the gap was too large and Wigan took the first game.

Having taken a short break, the players returned to the field for the second game. Eager to make it 2 from 2, Wigan’s players looked to apply the early pressure. Thomas D showed his fancy footwork to make inroads into the opposition's half, with support from Dominic, whose illusive running bewildered the defenders as he darted in and out. Despite an early try for Wigan, Littleborough were clearly determined to avenge the result of the first game and didn’t let the game get out of reach. Some great direct running, resulted in tries for both sides and set the scene for a nail biting finish, as parents and family watched on.

Having impressed in the first game, George continued to impose his presence throughout the second, ensuring Wigan maintained a narrow advantage going into the second half. With all to play, both teams fought hard to take the win. As Littleborough applied the pressure, Wigan’s players stood strong, and more importantly as a team, to see the game through and maintain their unbeaten record.

Leaving the pitch, still bathed in sunshine, both teams received a round of applause from the spectators, having thoroughly entertained everyone with some fantastic rugby. Both games had been a spectacle of great rugby which both teams could be proud to have been a part of.

After the game the players gather with ice creams in hand to hear the result of the MOM. Having seen everyone play what has to be the finest game of the season, the award could have gone to any of the players. The determination and team spirit from everyone was to be commended, but a decision had to be made and it was. Having not only traveled from Italy to be with his friends, Sam's return to the pitch was seamless, as he continued where he had left off despite not having played rugby since moving to Italy (apparently the national sport is football!). Having not lost any of his ability to read the game and contribute to the team, he deservedly received the MOM award to the delight of his teammates.

A big thank you must go to Littleborough, for ensuring a great game and hospitality (as usual). We look forward to next year!

From everyone, we wish Sam and his family a safe journey back and look forward to seeing them again soon. We are expecting Italian lessons next time…no excuses!

Ciao, ciao!!