Wigan U9 v Fylde U9

Players: Alex, Brandan, Connor, Harry, Joe , Nathan, Patrick, Harris, George, George G, Daniel, Paddy, James and Francis

Weather: Really cold

Pitch: Really cold

On days like these it becomes a test of will. As the mercury drops below zero only the most committed and determined prevail. There were a couple of moments during the morning where some might have given up but in the end, the fact that I was wearing two coats and long johns meant that I got through it. Tough times.

The rugby served up on such a bitter morning was excellent. Although the boys were on the wrong end of a couple of results, their effort and application could not be faulted.The three games made a mockery of the freezing temperatures as handling was good and thumping tackles were made.

Fylde proved solid opposition all morning. Arriving, as they did, with two complete teams to choose from they were strong runners and very well organised. The first game was a tight affair. Tries from Harris, Brandan, Nathan and James were reward for some excellent defence and some particularly good support play. Harris in particular was very impressive. One text book crunching tackle brought the crowd to its feet. A strong performance saw the boys start well with a 7-4 victory. It seemed at this stage that the home fixture hoodoo had been lifted. The incantation and spreading of chicken bones suggested by Coach Butler was not going to be necessary. Hurrah.

Then things started to drift away from us. Things just weren't right. People were coming back from the clubhouse saying there was "no milk". Whispers that they'd "run out of bacon" were circulating. It was all starting to conspire against us. Then the final omen. A Vauxhall Corsa had blocked everyone in. Pete Moran was furious. Sometimes the Rugby Gods are against you. Stoically we battled on. Both players and parents.

The intense cold started to bite at fingers as passes were dropped and possession turned over. Harris continued to shine with some excellent long range efforts. The ever reliable Daniel and Patrick Horcan ran the ball in bravely whilst Nathan darted around menacingly. Paddy built on his good defensive display from last week with some good tackles and George G and Alex ( both wearing the Late Shirts of Shame) performed well both in attack and defence. As the game went on It was great to see Joseph back to his all action best after a long injury lay off. This second game was a 5-8 reversal but a good performance nonetheless.

By the time the third game started, the temperature had dropped so low that polar bears wearing coats had started to appear, complaining that it was a bit nippy. Indeed George's dad Graham (a man who doesn't know the meaning of the word coat) had disappeared into the clubhouse for cup of black tea. It was a long final game; not least because the ref forgot to set his watch. The boys stuck at the task brilliantly, tackling their hearts out and running bravely into contact - none more so than Brandon and George. There were some excellent efforts in testing conditions - Connor was always threatening, Alex and Harry ran and tackled well whilst Francis and James were excellent in defence. We lost the last game 2-8. But it was very cold.

Another brilliant morning was had by all. Expert refereeing, tactically adept coaching all in the face of arctic conditions.

Man of the Match - Daniel for his tireless running and never having missed tackle in his life

Coach's Player of the match - Joseph. As LLCool J said - don't call it a comeback he ain't never been away.

Post match meal - Teething problems solved ; order restored with classic hot dog and chips.