Wigan U8s v Southport U8s

Players: Nathan, Patrick, Daniel, Joseph, Francis, Brandan, George and Connor.
Weather: Sunshine
Underfoot conditions: slutch

The saying, a week is a long time in under 8s rugby has never been more appropriate for Butler's men. Where last week thin air rather than tags were being clutched, the Douglas Valley outfit produced their best rugby of the season so far to leave a knowledgable crowd purring.

After an impeccably observed minute's silence for Remembrance Sunday, the Wigan outfit came out of the traps like greyhounds. The precision of their passing and tagging brought early dividends as George finished a sweeping move to open the scoring. The Southport team were unable to penetrate the ring of steel created by Wigan and only a double movement denied Nathan the opportunity to open his account. The Wigan Flyer was not to be denied though as he rounded off a length of the field move with the ball passing through at least five pairs of hands. Champagne rugby.

The second half continued Wigan's dominance as they scored their fifth unanswered try. Connor this time bewildering defenders with his balance and guile. The Wigan boys were tenacious in their tagging with Dan continuing where he left off last week. Midfield General Patrick marshalled the team into position again and it was T-R-Y time for Nathan after another set move came off.

It was now though that Wigan unleashed their secret weapon. Quiet up to this point, Brandan received a stray finger to the eye. Like a wounded lion,he responded the only way he knows how. By scoring tries. Time and again Brandan left defenders for dead as he scorched over the whitewash. His pace and class helped Wigan to 12-7 victory.

The resilience of the Wigan outfit was quickly put to the test as they immediately faced eight fresh players in game two. It was apt then, on this of all days, that they should meet their foes head on. Quick in thought, brave in deed; Wigan fought a tight game with honours even in a twenty try bonanza. Brandan now in full flight; George and Francis rampaging through the middle; Joseph full of boundless enthusiasm,they battled until the final whistle.

Every player contributed to an excellent team performance. It was certainly dulce et decorum.

Man of the match: Brandan
Post match meal: Hot dog AND chips ( order restored)