Wigan U9's v Southport

Wigan U9's hosted Southport on a welcomed sunny Sunday morning at Douglas Valley. Having had little rain in the run up to the game, the pitch conditions were perfect for Wigan's running game. Fielding 7 a side, both sides lined up ready to face each other for the first time under contact rules, having had to cancel their earlier seasons fixture due to weather.

With the sun on their backs (yes sun!) Wigan started with their usual intensity which restricted Southport throughout the morning. With ball in hand the players were at time unstoppable and with some subtle passing, converted many attacking opportunities into tries.

Blessed with numbers, Southport were able to field two side and rotated teams every 10 minutes to allow everyone game time. This gave Wigan a different challenge with each quarter which they relished. Having set the pace and tempo of the game from the first whistle, the players never looked like easing off and continued to dominate both in attack and defence. The reward was a clean sheet much to the delight of the coach and spectators.

Having had time to consume their post match meal, the players, parents and others gathered for the usual player awards. Having played fantastically all game with some decisive runs and great tackles, Jacob J shone and was awarded Parent Player. Coach's Player was a difficult decision, with so many to choose from it was returnee Harry who was named worthy winner. Having been away on sabbatical for the past few months, he returned to the fray with determination and vigor to make inroads with ball in hand.

Well done everyone!