Aldwinians prove too hot to handle
ACRISP chilly day was in store for all players and spectators at Waterloo Road as Southport entertained Aldwinians in what was a must win game for the first team.
The match was sponsored by Ludlows Independent Financial Advisors and the crowd was also bolstered by Chris Tinsely and his guest together with a number of current players as both the second and third team matches were postponed because of frozen pitches. As part of the 150th celebration, Col Toohey had also pulled together a presentation on the highlights of the last 15 years, and there were many I might add, which kept the clubhouse brethren entertained before and after the match.
The match kicked off with Southport starting strongly and having two good opportunities to kick penalties which were sadly missed. Aldwinians then worked their way into the game and after a couple of strong runs scored a converted try.
The game then ebbed and flowed with neither side adding any points before halftime leaving the away side in front 0-7.
Southport lost Billy Nichol with a head knock in the first half which was unfortunate as he was having a good game.,
Southport were under pressure at the start of the second half as Aldwinians forwards carried well and were displaying good continuity and ball retention.
However Southport’s defence was rock solid and very disciplined and would not allow the away side to score. Eventually the pressure mounted and a yellow card was awarded against Southport.
Aldwinians, with the numerical advantage were odds on to score a break away try but the mercurial Jack Mann was able to hold up the tackler who was looking to score under the posts and a knock on was awarded.
Another near certain Aldwinians try was stopped by Forrest Bailey who held up the opposition over the line. It was looking as if the tables were turning and Southport were gaining the upper hand and they then produced their best rugby of the match with Connor Rylands on his own 22 kicking through with Ewan Thompson gathering the ball and making 30 yards.
An up and under by Jake Mann was gathered courageously by Connor Rylands and following a number of pick and drives eventually led to Lewis Caldwell scoring an excellent team try which Jake Mann converted.
Southport were in the ascendancy with the scrum now dominating however a penalty for off side was slotted by the visitors and the momentum was short lived and it was 7-10 with 10 minutes to play.
Aldwinians then showed their coolness under pressure and with Ewan Thompson having to come off, the visitors scored a nice converted try to put them 10 points up.
Another successful penalty by the away team left the final score 20-7.
The home team were ably lead by captain “Forrest Bailey” and it was good to see Ewan Thompson back and playing well however the Bar Nista man of the match was Connor Rylands.
Next week sees the first team away to Aspull who are only just above them in the league so a good contest will be assured.
A special mention also to Southport under 14’s who were the only other mens team to play over the weekend and they won a tight match by a penalty 3-0.