Wigan U9's play Widnes

Wigan U9’s travelled over the border to Merseyside…sorry Cheshire! to face Widnes, having meet previously early in the season. Expecting conditions to be somewhat wet underfoot, it was a delight to see the grassy pitches being marked out early by Allen (Widnes coach), obviously getting the pick of the surfaces.

With the sun out and temperatures rising into double figure, despite this being the last game before Christmas, the players participated in their obligatory pre match warm up. With their minds clearly focused, it was great to see the young players starting to gel together as a team. With the squad numbers bolstered by our international player exchange policy, Wigan’s numbers totalled 16, a very good sign both for the future of the team and club. (Please note that we are still working on the reverse terms for us to send players out to Italy, but have been assured that accommodation and board will be provided by ‘The Kellys’ as part of the exchange policy agreement. Confirmation on the application process will be provided on request!)

With the sun out and the mood high, the referee gathered the players for one last discussion before sounding his whistle to the excitement of the loyal travelling fans (Italian counterpart included). Having had a 2 week break due to the wet weather, the players were very keen to make up for the absence of rugby with some fantastic attacking from the first play. With ball in hand the players made in roads, gaining territory with each tackle to move up the field. With little in the way of errors, the players used the ball to create space and open up the defence to cross the line on several occasions.

Both coaches watch on as the players converted the possession into points and when challenged in defence, stood strong and resilient. Having established a healthy lead, the first game finished without Wigan conceding a try through some textbook tackling across the squad despite Widnes continually pushing hard in centre field.

Having had the chance to compliment the players, both coaches had little more to say, other than an encouragement to use the pass to greater affect - a point which both coaches have laboured on since the beginning of the season. Having taken on water and as the temperature continued to rise (don’t forget this is December so most players had layers on!) the players lined up, ready to make it 2 from 2.

Starting where they had left off, Wigan were soon out of the blocks with some delightful running and passes (yippee!) to post early tries. Widnes, having gathered their thoughts, offered a stronger challenge in the second match and proved dangerous in centre field with some barnstorming runs from their ‘future forwards’. Despite this onslaught however Wigan’s players matched this with some timely tackles and determination which restricted Widnes to 1 try. A superb effort, with every player making tackles to maintain a solid defensive display.

With further tries added to Wigan’s tally, the pick of the bunch was still to come. Having pushed forward from deep within their own half and established possession in the Widnes half, the players lined up in an attacking formation (much to the delight of the coaches) and having played the ball attacked the defence. As the spectators watched the ball was distributed along the line, each player in turn drawing the defender before offloading, creating space for the winger who having received the ball was able to score in the corner with what can only be described as a text book wingers try. A moment we will all remember, and thanks to our recently recruited match day cameraman (Anthony) a moment which was captured on (the equivalent of film) his phone.

With a fantastic mornings rugby played, the players and coaches celebrated a truly great performance on a great morning for rugby with the usual post match awards of Parent’s Player and Coach’s Player. This week Parents award went to Zack, who having already been presented with Widnes own player of the match medal, had wowed the spectators with some fantastic running and a part in the ‘wonder try’.

The Coach’s award took some deliberation, with both coaches having difficulty separating the players. Having watched all the players put in winning performances, it was decided that having shown true determination, at times in the face of adversity, Kieron had showed that effort doesn’t go unnoticed. Although playing against much bigger opposition, he hadn’t taken a step backwards all game, proving a worthy winner.

Special thanks to Allen and his players for an enjoyable day and good luck with the rest of the season.

To all the players, parents and loyal spectators, we wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

From your coaches

Stuart and Mark