Hornets sting the Panthers

Portico Panthers U9 12

HFH U9 28 THE first game of the season saw a last minute change of venue due to weather-beaten pitches with Halton Farnworth Hornets U9s going to Portico Panthers.

It took a little while for the new rules to sink in but once they got going, HFH were dominant in defence and once they had ball in hand they showed some impressive skills along with great teamwork.

In attack there was impressive running from every player with Ben Grady stepping inside on the touch and forcing his way over for a try.

Strong running from Cian Winstanley and Kian Fahey saw them grab a try each.

James Prescott stepped and jinked his way over for two tries and Joseph Heaney powered his way through the middle for a brace of his own.

In defence, every Hornets’ player showed great improvement from last season with Joe Bebbington, Aiden Clarke and Ollie Jenkins leading from the front.

It was Joseph Heaney who topped the tackle count with some outstanding stops earning him the top tackler award.

With some brilliant cover tackles and on his debut for Hornets, it was Kian Fahey who was awarded the man-of-thematch honour. Latchford U10 30 HFH U10 Reds 18 THE U10 Reds made a good start to the season playing a very strong Latchford side who took an early lead before Zak Bennett quickly levelled the score with a great run and try.

Latchford then took control of the game with two consecutive tries.

Ben Sibson reduced the deficit when he scored just before the break with great skill spinning past a pair of Latchford defenders.

Latchford increased their lead but tries from Tyler Hollins and Jacob Fitzsimon kept Hornets in the game.

Man-of-the-match honours for the Hornets went to Keigan McPake who played great at hooker, whilst top tackler was Adam Cooke.

Oliver Stead was rewarded for his fine performance by taking home the coaches’ award.