Firwood Waterloo take points in close encounter
FIRWOOD Waterloo moved up to fourth in North One West by taking four points in an absorbing and physical contest against Vale of Lune by 20-14.
From kick off, the teams showed an intensity in their play which resulted in both sides playing 70 minutes with 14 men.
‘Loo were the first to score with a try by Charlie Harrocks but the visitors quickly levelled. The only other score of a close first half was a penalty from the home side to lead 10-7.
In a tight second period, the Firwood Waterloo forwards, keen to add to their total tested the Vale defence, which led to a try for Jacob Allen.
Further pressure forced the visitors into a long clearance kick from their 22 which was gathered by full back Darragh O’Brien. He passed to Jonny Roberts who sprinted 50 metres, evading tackles before passing to Luke Clifford for O’Brien to score in the corner. This was a well-worked try from the backs greatly appreciated by the home supporters.
Back came Vale of Lune with a converted try to come within a point of the hosts and set up a tense final 20 minutes. A penalty for Vale from around 40 metres out did nothing to calm the home supporters’ nerves, but fortunately for ‘Loo it was narrowly missed.
For a side that has gained a try bonus point in each of the last three games, Vale showed great attacking intent, but the ‘Loo defence stood firm to the severe examination. The visitors gave away a penalty deep in ‘Loo’s 22, but instead of opting for the kick to touch, they took a tap and go to retain possession and see out the game. “Proper, sensible rugby”, commented Firwood Waterloo superfan Rob Cain.
After the match, prop Liam Launders was pleased with the way that the forwards contained the threat from Vale, commenting: “We stuck to the gameplan, matched their physicality and provided a solid platform from the scrum”.
Coach Stuart Turner was also delighted with the performance of his squad. “We tried not to complicate our play and should have scored more and gained a bonus point but for a few handling slips”, he said before adding “the way the boys are playing, one day we will put a big score against our opponents”. He relishes the return of players to fitness acknowledging the talent he has at his disposal: they will be needed in a long season. Bonus points will be needed as this may prove crucial at the business end of the season.
Next week, Firwood Waterloo travel with confidence to the Upper Park to face an in-form Birkenhead Park side that sits two points and one place above them in the league.