Wigan U8's v Tarleton

Having been blessed with sun on Saturday, everyone was looking forward to a glorious morning on the open fields of Tarleton. The reality though, couldn't have been any more different . With the cold biting wind accompanied by relentless 'fine rain', the team and spectators struggled to keep warm. With some refused to leave the warmth of the car until the last minute!

Having managed to enthuse the players with the prospect of another win, the 'sleep' was wiped from their eyes and with several layer adorned, they entered the arena.

Wigan again suffering a late withdrawal, had to take to the field without last weeks MOM Luke. Having damaged a finger in his warm up game the day before, he had been dealt the news from the Doc that he required several days of rest. Despite the setback, the team was strengthened with the return of George. From the outset, George brought his usual dominance in midfield and pace on the fringes, to lead the team. Supported as ever by Harry, the central heavyweights, laid the platform for the team to attack and put points on the board. Not to be outdone, Tarleton fought back with some great tries, as the teams exchanged scores in the first game to ensure a close encounter. Wigan, having forced several handovers, retained a slim lead and the win.

Moving into the second game, and with the rain now horizontal, the players tried to keep warm and focused...and they did. As the weather worsened, the handling of Wigan players improved! With some sublime passing, the Wigan attacking line used the "pass" to create space across the park. Thomas D took the advantage and attacked the defensive line with his quick pace and with Dominic's quick feet stepping in and out, Wigan crossed the line on several occasions to build a healthy lead. 2-0 after the second.

On a role, the Wigan players sensed a clean sweep was a possibility and again in the third and fourth games showed great class. Using the ball to create gaps, in what was a strong Tarleton defensive line, the Wigan machine rumbled on. Despite the cold weather, Jacob found strength from within to battle through and maintain a strong defensive line again forcing the handover. Tom C's strong running and delightful passing created the space for the try of the morning and with Rhys showing his usual determination and ferocity both in attack and defence to ensure the spoils for the morning came Wigans way.

With the final whistle, and the rain stopping!, the players huddled for their usual debrief and chant of "WIGAN", before speedily leaving the field to the warmth of the changing room.

Back in the clubhouse and having been feed hotdogs, the players and parents gathered to await the announcement of this weeks man of the match. Having been strong in defence and also attack all morning, Zack had played his part in controlling the game and ultimately the result, earning himself the title of MOM and bragging rights over his brother no doubt!