20 Oct 2014
Lancashire at the double
Lancashire Under-17s and Women completed a “double” over the auld enemy at Wigan St Jude’s as both sides claimed victory over their Yorkshire rivals.
The matches, a first and somewhat experimental fixture for Women’s RL, lacked no little passion, as is to be expected in fixtures involving these sides, but the quality of rugby on show was what left a lasting impression.
The Under-17s were up first and enjoyed the better of the conditions, blustery winds making kicking difficult throughout, whilst the Women’s game became attritional in the second half as the rain poured.
Despite this though the ball was thrown around throughout and the players deserve great credit for the talent showcased.
Demi Fisher started the scoring for Lancashire with a well taken try following a dummy which split the defence.
Further first half tries for Hannah Young and Pip Birchall, alongside conversations from Holly Coburn and Fisher herself, gave Lancashire a lead they rarely looked like relenting and they enjoyed a 16-0 lead at half-time.
Yorkshire, however, performed much better in the second-half scoring first through Reagan Walker who also converted.
The game then levelled slightly and became a real contest but the lead eventually took its’ psychological effect and Lancashire managed to add further tries by Becky Greenfield and Abby Latchford as Yorkshire chased the game.
A late score to Angel Hart finished the scoring and gave the score-line a look that reflected the match more accurately.
It was a much more comprehensive display by the Lancashire Women’s team though who were better throughout.
Boosted by a spine of Thatto Heath St Helens players, recently crowned Premier Division champions, they were much more fluent in attack and although by no means dominant it was clear that the combinations in key positions were proving the difference.
The Lancastrians took a 16-0 lead into half-time through tries from Samantha Simpson, outstanding all game, Katie Williams and Naomi Williams.
Faye Gaskin added two conversions including a great touchline effort.
The rain dictated that the pace of the game slowed somewhat as the game went on and there was only one further score, Carrie Roberts crashing over from Gemma Walsh’s superb short ball.
“It was good day and has certainly given the Management Group something to think about for future years,” said James Shuttleworth. Competition Manager.
“We’ll review the games, speak to those involved for feedback and we’ll see where this event best fit in future.
“There was some really good rugby played today, a good crowd and plenty of passion. I’d really like to thank Wigan St Judes for hosting, hopefully it was good experience for them too”
RESULTS:
Lancashire U17s 24 v 10 Yorkshire U17s
Lancashire Women 22 v 0 Yorkshire Women