Ormskirk 20 - 5 Wigan

Wigan travelled to fellow title contenders, Ormskirk, this weekend in what was billed as a crucial match for both sides.

The game kicked off in blustery conditions and Ormskirk set about taking advantage by kicking deep into Wigan territory time and again. With Wigan caught offside, Ormskirk duly slotted the penalty and took a 3-0 lead.

From here Wigan fought back well and despite playing against the wind, had the lions share of territory and possession. Ormskirk held out for almost the entire half when deep into injury time Wigan scored the first try of the match. A stolen lineout on the edge of the Ormskirk 22 was taken wide and Brad Makinson was dragged down just short. The ball was recycled and taken back across the pitch where Johnathan Blan was waiting on the wing. Blan overpowered his opposite number and crashed over in the corner to give Wigan a 3-5 lead at half time.

Conditions improved in the second half and Ormskirk seemed to be galvanised after going behind so late in the first half. Indeed it was Ormskirk who now had a fair control of territory and possession and Wigan who had to defend diligently.

With only 15 minutes, remaining a series of penalties resulted in an attacking scrum for the Ormskirk side. The ball was played out and taken over in the corner to give Ormskirk an 8-5 lead.

The game then went away from Wigan as their discipline slipped. Sam Gee can maybe count himself unfortunate to be sin binned for a high tackle but the game turned just moments later when Joe Prior picked up a red card.

With Wigan playing with 13 men, Ormskirk took full advantage. A loose ball in Wigan’s 22 was not dealt with and the Ormskirk fullback, who had been a thorn in Wigan’s side all day, pounced and took the ball over. 13-5.

In the dying moments, Ormskirk rubbed more salt in the wound. Awarded a penalty, Ormskirk tapped and went quickly catching the Wigan defence off guard and going over for their third and final score. Ormskirk 20-5.

Results elsewhere mean Wigan’s reign at the top is over for now as Manchester Medics regain first place. Wigan will look to return to winning form with a tough match at Bury this weekend.