Champions pushed

LITTLEBOROUGH under 14s entertained Manchester, Lancashire Cup champions for the past two seasons at this age level, at Rakewood.

Boro were made to pay for their failure to deal with the Manchester winger in the first half as he registered three tries, Manchester taking a 0-28 lead. The score line didn’t really reflect the nature of the contest.

At the start of the econd half, the boys found themselves camped in the Manchester half, and after some good forward play, Jake Coupe was able to power over the line for a try converted by Thomas Kelly. This score was however quickly cancelled out by another score from Manchester.

The lads again showed character and spirit and drove up-field and put their opponents under pressure. The end result was Ruben Warburton breaking through the line to score, injuring himself in the process of scoring and having to sit out the remainder of the game.

Boro further reduced the deficit when Ben Williams converted from close range, converted by Jacob Brady.

Manchester finished the game with the last try, making the final score was 19-40.

The lads did however win the second half by a score of 19-14.

It was no means a game of rugby for the purists given the conditions under foot, and much of the ball was dominated by the forwards, but nonetheless everyone contributed and a good game of rugby was enjoyed by all.

Clubman of the week award went to Ben Crabtree for a typical performance in attack and defence, and for the support he provided Cayan last week whilst he lay injured. A true clubman, deserving of this weeks’ award.

A special mention must also be given to Ben Williams for scoring his first try for the club.