Match Reports

Saturday 17th April 2010

Hawcoat Park 1st XV v Trafford MV

Lost 28 - 32

On a perfect day for rugby and on firm playing conditions in front of a big home crowd Hawcoat Park could not quite finish a good season off with a victory against third in the league Trafford.

The Manchester based side showed their commitment to the game and were out 'warming up' before most of the home side lads arrived an hour before the kick off. The bus journey, therefore, did not affect Trafford and they took the lead 10 minutes into the game, the ball was moved out wide and their pacey full back burst into the line to go over untouched, 0 - 5.

The home side pack were working very hard to gain a slight advantage up front, second rows Martin Kennedy and Chris Thompson were leading some good mauls and making ground driving forward. A spell of good pressure resulted in a good home try, the fly half slipped a neat short pass to centre Eddie Aitken who burst over under the posts, fellow centre Matt Sale converted, 7 - 5.

Soon after prop Tom Dodson made some good ground and the ball was moved out wide for winger Matt Burrows to show a clean pair of heals down the touchline on a 40 metre run to touch down near the posts for another try, converted by Sayle, 14 - 5.

The Trafford fly half narrowed our lead with a penalty goal before the maroon and whites stretched the lead with a third try, yet again Danny White drove forward, centre Eddie Aitken made good ground before parting to the supporting full back George Hilton who showed good determination to force his way over under the posts. Sayle converted, 21 - 8.

Trafford are a good side and have been consistent all season hence their third in the league position. In the ten minute period before half time they cranked up the pressure, also realising they had a yard of pace advantage across the three quarters. Both their wingers scored trys in this period, one of which was converted to give the home side a very slight advantage at half time, 21 - 20.

The momentum of the game continued the same into the second half, the home side were struggling to get a foot hold in the game against an efficient Trafford unit. Dave Gallagher, Brad Morrow and the rest of the home pack were defending well but the pressure had to tell and Trafford scored two further trys, one converted to stretch their lead to 21 - 32.

Following a cry off, Jon Moses had to move to his dad Graham's former position as scrum half and was doing a good job in a new position for him. He was driving the home team on along with the experienced 'old hands', Kennedy and Steve Slater and certainly non of the maroon and whites heads dropped.

With the home crowd cheering them on the last ten minutes was all Hawcoat Park, Trafford were defending well but eventually a try came. Replacement Martin Grainger took a quick tap and went for the line, Slater was up in support and big second row Thompson showed good strength to force his way over. Sayle calmly slotted over the conversion. Although Hawcoat Park went straight back on the attack there was just not the time to get that winning try. Final score 28 - 32.

The home sides line out advantage was lost when Mike Lightfoot had to leave the pitch. A word also for Chris Thompson who normally does not play a full 80 minutes, but put in a great shift. Matt Sayle had another solid game and kicked very well.

A most enjoyable game to watch, it was just unfortunate a good team performance could not result in a last game victory, which would have finished off a good season nicely. There is a good spirit with the young lads enjoying each others company both on and off the pitch, hopefully something to build on for next season in what is a strong league and a good test with certainly no easy games.

Saturday 10th April 2010

Hawcoat Park 1st XV v Birchfield

Won 28 - 18

On a perfect day for a game of rugby, Hawcoat Park welcomed the Widnes based outfit to Barrow, looking to reverse the defeat suffered in the first game of the season.

The game started off very evenly with Birchfield demonstrating they had travelled looking for more than an end of season night out. In fact it was the Birchfield side who took the lead when, after a good spell of pressure, their impressive kicker slotted over a 35 metre penalty goal.

The maroon and white pack were playing well as a unit and slowly started to gain an advantage, particularly in the scrum. Big second row Chris Thompson was putting in some good driving runs and this gave Matt Sayle the opportunity to slot over a penalty goal to even up the score, 3 - 3.

Soon after the first Hawcoat Park try came, following good runs involving both wingers Matt Burrows and George Hilton, eventually stand in skipper Brad Morrow supported good forward drives involving Dave Gallagher and Martin Kennedy to force his way over, Sayle converted the try, 10 - 3.

The momentum was with the home side now, fly half Paul Burns was bringing his strong running centres Eddie Aitken and Sayle into the game well and following a good run from No 8 Tim Clark impressive scrum half Sam Hilton touched down for the second try, 15 - 3.

Unfortunately soon after the scrum half had to head off to the hospital with a shoulder injury to be replaced by the hard working Adam Grainger.

Before half time there was just time for Birchfield to narrow the margin with a penalty goal, 15 - 6.

It was certainly Birchfield who started the second half the strongest and 10 minutes or so into the half deservedly scored their first try, they showed good handling to work space out wide for their centre to touch down, 15 - 11.

Centre Sayle calmed the home sides nerves a little with two well taken penalty goals to stretch the lead to 21 - 11.

Birchfield certainly were not there to give up and showed the typical spirit you expect from them. They cranked up the pressure and on a couple of occasions home full back Jon Moses had to put in a couple of important tackles, but eventually the pressure told and good play involving their forwards resulted in their back row forcing his way over for a converted try, 21 - 18.

Soon after the Birchfield kicker just missed a 35 metre penalty goal attempt which would have levelled the scores.

The Hawcoat Park sponsors KDC Contractors in attendance were enjoying a very close hard fought game.

The home sides back row Mike Lightfoot was having a good game in the line out and showing up well in the loose and was perhaps unlucky to have a try disallowed.

Just before the end the always impressive Danny White took the game away from Birchfield. Taking a short ball from Clark he ran well to just manage to stretch over under the posts, Sayle converted for a final score 28 - 18.

This was a satisfying win for coach Jeff Simm with all the team, including replacements, playing well for each other in a team effort against an impressive Birchfield side.

County U20 centre Sayle took the players Man of the Match for his all round game and accurate kicking. Back row Lightfoot must have pushed him. Just a word for 52 year old Man of Steele - Jim, who propped for the full 80 minutes, as usual never taking a backward step and showing all the experience his younger team mates rely upon.

An enjoyable day was only spoilt when word came through from Rossendale that the A Team had been beaten.

Saturday 27th March 2010

Hawcoat Park 1st XV v Didsbury Toc H

Lost 10 - 14

With Toc H pushing for promotion and Hawcoat Park suffering a heavy defeat in the reverse fixture down in Manchester, a tough game was anticipated. It was a hard game but one the maroon and whites matched their opponents all over the pitch and in the end were unlucky not to get something from the game.

The first ten minutes or so were very even as both teams tested each other out. Slowly the home side got on top and through some good work by the pack with Dave Gallagher and Chris Thompson to the fore applying some good pressure. No 8 Tim Clark was held up over the line, soon after skipper Jason Priss showed good strength and determination to force his way over, 5 - 0.

Unfortunately the inspirational leader had to leave the field soon after with what turned out to be a broken hand. After his serious knee injury earlier in the season the young Captain has had a season to forget. Lets hope he can make a quick recovery to continue his real development as a player.

As to be expected from a good side Toc H came back into the game and it was only good organised defence from the likes of Martin Kennedy and Danny White that managed to keep the Manchester side out. Eventually the pressure told and Toc H showed good hands to move the ball out wide for their winger to touch down in the corner. Their fly half booted a great conversion.

The game continued as an even arm wrestle right up to half time where the score remained 5 - 7 and into the second half.

With Hawcoat Park pressing and having a good spell in the Toc H 'red zone' right against the run of play, Toc H stretched their lead. The ball came loose and Toc H were just relieved to boot the ball long. Unfortunately impressive full back Joel Callister and all the Hawcoat Park backs were up the field attacking. Although we managed to get to the ball, good pressure allowed the Toc H winger to pick up and slip a neat ball to his centre partner to score under the posts for a converted try, 5 - 14.

With fly half Mike Winfield making good use of the slight wind advantage and vice captain Brad Morrow driving his team on, the maroon and whites came back at the Toc H side.

Scrum half Adam Grainger scored a great individual try. Going blind from a scrum on the 22 metre line he shot through a gap and showed great strength to slide over in the corner, 10 - 14.

Injuries to winger Mike Lewis (second row Callum Ramsay had to replace him) and back row Mike Lightfoot had disrupted the maroon and whites team but as time ran out they hit Toc H with everything they had to try to get the crucial score. Unfortunately it was just not to come and it was a mightily relieved Toc H side who celebrated the final whistle.

The look on all the Hawcoat Park players faces told it all, this was a game where they could easily have taken the scalp of a top league side. Coach Jeff Simm can feel proud of the commitment shown by the whole team.

This was a very good even hard but fair game throughout, well referred by Danny Shovelton.

Saturday 20th March 2010

Tarleton v Hawcoat Park 1st XV

Lost 25 - 17

Hawcoat Parks preparation was set back by a bus break down resulting in a late arrival. In all honesty the first half performance from the maroon and whites was as if they were still on the original bus. More first up tackles were missed in this half than have been in all the games played since Christmas.

Tarleton are at the wrong end of the league table and in the past few weeks have been fighting very hard in an attempt to avoid relegation.

Tartleton really hit the ground running, from the start their young mobile forwards were really up for the game. Their pacey scrum half was constantly scampering around the break down and made one particularly good long break down the blind side.

Fifteen minutes into the half Tartleton scored their first try after a good spell of pressure, their big prop forward came on a crash ball to break a couple of tackles to touch down. The try was converted, 7 - 0. Continuing to dominate play Tartleton scored two further trys and a penalty goal during the first half. Both trys were scored when good pressure by their forwards created some space out wide for their centre and winger to score.

Very little was seen of the maroon and whites in a flat first half performance, with only a couple of good powerful runs from No. 8 Tim Clark and good play from Brad Morrow the only things worth mentioning. Half time 20 - 0.

Coach Jeff Simm's half time thoughts to the players were likely heard back in Barrow! Jeff's health has not been good throughout the season and his blood pressure must have shot up in this team talk.

The players reacted how he hoped they would right from the start of the second half. This time it was Tartleton who were on the back foot for the complete half and having to work overtime in the tackling department.

After a few cry off's Martin Grainger had shown the loyal commitment he has displayed right throughout his long career at our club by putting his hand up and played the full game at hooker. As part of Jeff's coaching team he was encouraging the young players, including his own son Adam at scrum half, to lift their game.

Fifteen minutes or so into the half Hawcoat Park scored their first try from continued pressure, the forwards were pounding the Tarleton line and back row Danny White did well to stretch his long arms over the line to touch down, 20 - 5.

The visitors sensed they could get back into this game and Tartleton were having to defend well. Second row Lorcan Martindale was making good ground with runs in the loose and the Hawcoat Park pack were certainly coming out on top. From close range skipper Jason Priss showed good strength to force his way over. Fly half Jon Moses booted over a great conversion, 20 - 12.

Steve Slater, normally an all action forward, was helping out playing in the centre and he and fellow centre Matt Sayle were running strongly. At this point a penalty was awarded right in front of the posts, with two scores needed those on the touchline felt the kick should have been taken but the players felt they needed the try first and took a quick tap which came to nothing.

With time running out Tartleton then scored the killer blow, in their own 22 the ball was lost by Hawcoat Park, the impressive Tartleton scrum half snapped up the loose ball, made very good ground and eventually their winger managed to touch down in the corner 25 - 12.

The maroon and whites heads dropped as they knew there was no coming back from this position. However, they again went on the attack. White had made a couple of good runs throughout the game, which very nearly created trys, this time he made a good break and timed a pass perfectly to winger Matt Burrows who showed good pace to shoot into the corner for an unconverted try. Final score 25 - 17.

This was certainly a game of two halves. The first half was very poor from Hawcoat Park, the second half so much better, but it proved too much to claw back the 20 points deficit from the first half.

No. 8 Clark ran strongly all game and deservedly took the Man of the Match award, prop Morrow put in his usual all action grafting performance. White showed up well at times and Martin Grainger's part has already been mentioned, Hawcoat Park's final away game was a performance to forget, certainly the first half!

Saturday 13th March 2010

Hawcoat Park 1st XV v De La Salle

Lost 0 - 38

The top of the league Salford based outfit continued their unbeaten start to the season with, in the end, a comfortable 38 - 0 win. The score did not reflect the effort and commitment shown by the whole of the Hawcoat Park team and like the Hutton game the week before, it was only towards the end that the score line rattled up.

It was the maroon and whites home team that started the best with De La Salle showing signs of their long bus journey. In the first 10 minutes, following good pressure, firstly it was fly half Mike Winfield who ran strongly and was just held short, then hooker Dave Gallagher and No. 8 Tim Clark who were just stopped following strong runs for the line. During this period De La Salle showed the well organised mean defence that they were to demonstrate right throughout the game.

Slowly but surely De La Salle started to get in to the game. Their forward pack played a rugby league style of game with powerful forwards making short drives and using good handling to always supporting team mates. This style of play was proving difficult for the home team to counter but once again the front row of skipper Jason Priss, Gallagher and prop Brad Morrow were working hard and leading by example. Scrum half Adam Grainger was also putting in some big hits on lads a lot bigger than himself.

Twenty five minutes into the half De La Salle scored their first try, it came through another impressive forward drive with the powerful second row getting his hands on the ball last to force his way over.

Before half time there was time for De La Salle to show their running skills. From a midfield miss move the De La Salle full back burst onto the ball at pace, sliced through the defence to time his pass to his supporting winger to cross. The try was well converted by the full back. Half time 0 - 12.

Using the slight wind advantage De La Salle dominated the second half.

The close support play and handling from the forwards was impressive, the experienced back row in particular were an efficient unit and ground down the home side defence three times for trys from close range through forwards. The other try was via their winger after another impressive running move through the three quarters. Three of these trys came in the last 15 minutes and was disappointing for the home side who did not deserve to be on the wrong end of a 38 - 0 defeat.

The home wingers, Matt Burrows and Mike Lewis, who stepped in late, did not see very much ball but did well when they did. The home pack were on the back foot for most of the game, but always stuck to the task against a very well drilled unit. Prop Morrow took the players Man of the Match for his hard grafting performance with his fellow front rowers giving him very good support. Mike Lightfoot and Steve Slater showed up well in the line out but De La Salle did not possess really tall lads, more rugby league style forwards with good upper body strength.

Next for Hawcoat Park is their last away game at Tartleton.

The atmosphere in the club was lifted, not by the England performance at Murrayfield, but by news that the A Team had won 22 - 0 away at Clitheroe.

Saturday 6th March 2010

Hutton v Hawcoat Park 1st XV

Lost 41 - 5

Hutton use the Lancashire Police Headquarters near Preston as their home base and their victory was certainly a 'fair cop' albeit the scoreline not reflecting the balance of the game or the effort put in by the maroon and whites as a team. There is no substitute for pace in any sport and this is the area Hutton really had the advantage, with both centres and wingers very pacey, the patched up Hawcoat Park did very well, with a special word for Mike Lightfoot, normally a line out jumping back row forward having to contain a very elusive centre who had recently spent 12 months out in Australia improving his running skills! It was only in the last 10 minutes or so when the tired Hawcoat Park defenders fell off tackles that Hutton ran in three converted trys to rattle up the scoreboard.

Hutton had a slight wind advantage in the first half and in the early exchanges used this to pin us back in our own 22. Eventually the pressure told and the bigger Hutton pack put on a good drive for their Captain and No. 8 to drop over the line. Quickly followed by the first real signs of the pace in the Hutton team, when after good handling, the winger shot in at the corner, 12 - 0.

The rest of the first half Hawcoat Park regrouped and with Mike Winfield pulling the strings, played some good rugby. It looked as though No. 8 Tim Clark had forced his way over but the impressive referee from Liverpool judged held up in the tackle. Then right on half time the deserved try came when hooker Dave Gallagher somehow forced his way through the home teams defence from a tap penalty to touch down, 12 - 5.

Skipper Jason Priss was leading by example and was working hard all over the pitch and was part of an efficient front row unit with Gallagher and Tom Dodson, who was showing up really well on a debut against a much bigger Hutton front row.

Hutton stretched their lead through their impressive centre. Winger Matt Burrows was showing up very well on his return from injury and was a little unlucky to be called back for a forward pass when about to score following a great passing movement involving Winfield, Danny White and Matt Sayle.

The other winger, George Hilton, did well both in defence and attack with the ball he received.

It was only in the final 10 minutes that Hutton doubled their score in quick time, leaving the workmanlike Hawcoat park side feeling a bit down following the effort they had put in.

Debutants Dodson and replacement Liam Ducie did well in a difficult game and once again Peter Steele worked hard in the back row. Steve Slater put in a usual grafting performance before being replaced by Chris Thompson.

Skipper Priss took the players Man of the Match award for his all action display.

The games get no easier with unbeaten De La Salle due at Hawcoat Park next week.

Saturday 27th February 2010

Bolton v Hawcoat Park 1st XV

Lost 17 - 0

Hawcoat Park arrived to find a pitch of two halves as the clich� goes. The club house end was extremely heavy and predominantly muddy whilst the far end was relatively firm and grass covered. Using their local knowledge Bolton played a strategy of ensuring the ball was kicked deep into the waterlogged end the maroon and whites were defending. It was almost impossible to clear the ball away out of the mud, full back Jon Moses was having to work overtime fielding kicks. Although under constant pressure and at times stretched the Hawcoat Park defence was very good, winger George Hilton put in a timely tackle but it was mainly the front row of skipper Jason Priss, hooker Andy Kent and Brad Morrow and the rest of the Hawcoat pack who were made to work very hard.

Just when the visitors thought they were going to get through to half time with the game scoreless a Bolton player clearly knocked on with the referee on the 'blind side', from this play the Bolton fly half booted over a penalty goal. Then right on half time a Bolton back row forward charged down a clearance kick out of the mud on the right hand side. Bolton used good passing to stretch the ball out to the left and their full back joined the line to score wide out. The try was well converted. Half time 10 - 0.

Hawcoat Park were caught napping at the start of the second half, good support play amongst the Bolton forwards and backs resulted in their centre scoring wide out, again the try was well converted 17 - 0.

The rest of the second half followed the same pattern as the first half, this time it was fly half Mike Winfield and the rest of the Hawcoat Park team who pinned Bolton back into the heavy mud at every opportunity.

Hawcoat Park hit Bolton with everything they could but the Bolton defence remained organised and strong. The maroon and whites thought they had scored the try they deserved towards the end when No 8 Tim Clark forced his way over on the blind side but the referee judged he had touched the corner flag. Final score 17 - 0.

In very difficult conditions both teams, helped by the referee, played a very competitive game. The nil scoreline certainly did not reflect the effort put in by the Hawcoat Park team. On the day Bolton took their chances to get two trys and were the better team on the day.

The hard working Peter Steele was judged by the Bolton team as our Man of the Match. The Hawcoat Park players went for Jon Moses who was always in the play and did his attacking and defending work well throughout the game. Centre Matt Sayle was another one to have a big game putting in some timely strong tackles. Skipper Jason Priss led his pack well, who kept going right to the end in tiring conditions.

A word also for replacements Chris Thompson and Adam Grainger (who had travelled over from Leeds Uni) who both did well when joining the play.

Saturday 20th February 2010

Hawcoat Park 1st XV v Bury

On a perfect pitch and on a perfect day for playing rugby, Hawcoat Park had to work hard to beat a stubborn Bury side who, themselves, played some good free flowing rugby.

All started well for the maroon and white with a good first try coming after 10 minutes. Centre Matt Sayle put in a crunching tackle on the half way line, fly half Paul Burns moved the ball out wide and good hands from Danny White and Jon Moses created the space for No. 8 Tim Clark to cross, scrum half Sam Hilton slotted over the conversion.

Any thoughts this was going to be a stroll in the park were shot down when Bury soon bounced back. Hawcoat Park were attacking but the ball was stolen and the impressive Bury No. 8 went on the first of many good runs, timing his pass perfectly for their pacey winger to cross near the posts for a try which was converted, 7 - 7.

The Hawcoat Park second try reflected the dominance of the forwards in the scrum, when they pushed Bury back 15 metres for No. 8 Tim Clark to touch down. To the surprise of his team mates, who did not know he could kick, Sam Hilton again slotted over the conversion.

The third try went to Danny White, after taking a pass from Brad Morrow he went on a typical strong run, beating would be tacklers to touch down. Soon to be followed by fellow back row Mike Lightfoot, who forced his way over following good work by George Hilton.

The final try of the half deservedly went to centre James Howden who took a pass from Martin Kennedy to run strongly to touch down at the posts, Sam Hilton again converted the try.

There was still time for Bury to collect a further try. Their pacey full back was a thorn in the home sides side all game and he ran well to release the same winger who scored their first try to touch down. Half time 31 - 12.

The second half was a little disappointing, the home side appeared to take their foot off the gas, although Bury played with real pride. Their back row in particular worked hard, although their front five came off second best, with the home sides 20 year old props Jason Priss and Brad Morrow featuring strongly. Second row Steve Slater again was doing all the 'donkey work'.

Only one more try a piece was scored in the second half, hooker Dave Gallagher scored a typical try, burying over from a tap penalty.

Bury's impressive No. 8 bagged the final try when he showed good pace for a forward to touch down in the corner.

A good win for Hawcoat Park to consolidate their mid table position. The down side was the three injuries suffered by the centre pairing, James Howden and Matt Sayle (ankle) and a cut eye for Brad Morrow. James Howden will be out for a few weeks with a hamstring pull, hopefully the other two will be fit to play away at Bolton next week. Replacements Andy Kent, Chris Thompson and young Will Howard all did well when coming on.



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Saturday 13th February 2010

Windermere v Hawcoat Park 1st XV

Won 3 - 20

The Hawcoat Park plans were disrupted when stalwart prop Ray Sayle cut his hand on the morning of the game, Jim Steele (or 'legend' as he is affectionately called by his younger team mates) stepped in to the starting line up. The squad is now consistent in its make up and this is paying off in the performances and this was a great team display against our closest rivals in the North Lancashire Division 1 League.

The maroon and whites got off to a great start when, after five minutes, fly half Mike Winfield chipped over the cover defence and booted the ball on again for impressive back row Danny White to gather the ball and touch down, the conversion was missed.

Hawcoat continued to play some good rugby and after a good spell of pressure extended our lead, when Winfield slotted over a penalty goal, 0 - 8.

Playing their favoured slightly down hill for the remainder of the first half the big Windermere pack camped in our 22 and hit us with everything they had. This was the time the game was won as the defence from the Hawcoat Park lads during this spell was tremendous, some great close quarter tackling was made across the team with the likes of Brad Morrow and the back row of Dave Gallagher, Tim Clark and Danny White putting in some great hits.

Right on half time Windermere booted a penalty goal to make the score 3 - 8.

Scrum half Sam Hilton was having a tremendous game, always prompting and driving his team on and putting in some clever kicks. The Hawcoat Park front row and 'engine room' second rower Martin Kennedy and Steve Slater were getting on top in the scrums and Windermere were finding it hard to get out of their half.

The pressure brought two further trys, firstly Cumbria U20 centre Matt Sayle ran strongly off a pass from centre partner James Howden to twist in the tackle and stretch over, Winfield converted 3 - 15.

The final try deservedly went to skipper Jason Priss who had put in a 'good shift' all game. He supported a typical run from Gallagher into the heart of the Windermere defence and forced his way over from close range, 3 - 20.

Callum Ramsay and Paul Burns joined the play, two useful replacements to say the least and the latter could have two trys at the end once crossing only to be called back for a forward pass.

In the three quarters the back three of full back Gareth Jesson and wingers George Hilton and Jon Moses did all their work efficiently and looked dangerous with the ball in hand.

Coach Jeff Simm, Martin Grainger and the support team can take some pride in this efficient team performance. There will not be many teams that play Windermere twice in a season and never let them cross their try line.

Scrum half Sam Hilton had one of his best games in a maroon and white shirt, against a good opponent and was the stand out Man of the Match.

His former colts team mates in the pack, Danny White, Brad Morrow and skipper Priss, although still young, are really looking the business and learning all the time from the more 'mature' lads who make up the pack.

Confidence is rightly high and the team will be looking forward to welcoming Bury to Hawcoat Park next week.

Saturday 6th February 2010

Hawcoat Park 1st XV v Ashton-Under-Lyne

Score 34 - 5 Abandoned at 66 minutes

On a perfect day for rugby, the good rugby played by Hawcoat Park was over shadowed by the totally ill disciplined performance from the Ashton side.

Firstly it was abuse of the referee and then when beaten they decided it would be a good idea to rough up the game with off the ball hits and cheap shots. They were not even very good at this and the maroon and white lads stuck together and gave as good as they got in defending themselves.

After receiving a red card and at least four yellow cards after 66 minutes, for some reason one mouthy Ashton forward was heard to say ' we might as well walk off'. Approximately 7 'sheep' followed him. The remaining decent Ashton lads were bemused, embarrassed and apologetic as we clapped them off in the normal manner.

We have all suffered some heavy defeats in our time but walking off before the end is a first for me and must be a low point in the history of the Ashton club.

Around all the nonsense this was a good dominant team performance from the Hawcoat Park lads and this possibly frustrated Ashton. It was the Ashton prop who was red carded resulting in the game going to unopposed scrums and taking away an area where the maroon and white pack were applying pressure.

The first try came when fly half Mike Winfield slipped a lovely short pass to the strong running Cumbria U20 forward Danny White who was unstoppable as he touched down under the posts. Mike Winfield connected the try. To the delight of his team-mates the second was scored by winger Rick Gadsden in his last game before heading off to New Zealand next week.

The third try was touched down by Mike Winfield after winger George Hilton was stopped just short of the try line.

The fourth was a typical 'barn storming' effort from No 8 Tim Clark, picking the ball up at the base of scrum 35 metres you could see nobody was going to stop him from the look in his eyes as he crashed through would be tacklers.

Ashton got their try at this point when their winger intercepted a pass to show good speed and score from 70 metres. half time 24 - 5.

The second half saw a second try for Danny White, as usual having a hand in most of the teams good work and a deserving try for winger George Hilton. Final score after 66 minutes 34 - 5.

The unopposed scrums meant the big Ashton No 8 picked up from the scrum most times and Mike Lightfoot in particular put in some great hits to knock him back. Some good running rugby was played and centres Matt Sayle and James Howden featured well. The Hawcoat Park pack led by skipper Jason Priss got the upper hand on the reduced in number Ashton pack and laid the platform for half backs Sam Hilton and Mike Winfield to make good use of the ball.

On a sad day to try and forget just a word of sympathy for the man who definitely suffered most, the referee Steve Holmes.

Saturday 23rd January 2010

Littleborough v Hawcoat Park 1st XV

Lost 29 - 7

Hawcoat Park arrived at the Liitleborough ground with only 20 minutes to the KO time, and so took to the field without being able to do their usual warm up. Park elected to play with the slope on the pitch to their advantage in the first period and despite their late arrival soon had the Littleborough side on the back foot, driving them deep into their own half. With only 5 minutes on the clock the forwards were able to drive the Littleborough pack backwards and No8 Tim Clark was forced his way over from short range. Jon Moses added the conversion to give the Hawcoat Park side a 7 0 lead.

For the next 20 minutes the Littleborough side defended very well despite being under a lot of pressure from a Hawcoat Park side whose powerful scrum was constantly driving the home team forwards back. Slowly the home team got themselves back into the game and their pack were now beginning to win a steady supply of ball from line out and scrum. From a line out close to the Hawcoat Park line the home side used their very effective rolling maul to drive over the line to score. The conversion was missed and Hawcoat still lead 7 - 5. Littleborough were now starting to get on top and 5 minutes from the break they moved the ball wide for their winger to beat the defence on the outside then cut back inside to score under the posts. The try was converted giving a half time scoreline of Littleborough 12 Hawcoat Park 7.

The second half started badly for Hawcoat Park as from the kick off Littleborough's big NO 8 drove straight back at the their defence and with good support from the rest of his pack they were able to suck in the defence and give the home side backs chance to create space to score an unconverted try out wide. (17 - 7). This pattern continued for the next 20 minutes of the game with the home side's big pack driving and supporting each other very well. Hawcoat Park defended strongly with skipper Jason Priss, hooker Dave Gallagher and man of the match scrum half Sam Hilton leading the way,
but were unable to stop the home team scoring a further 2 tries, one of which was converted to give a score line of 29 - 7. Hawcoat Park refused to give up and for the latter part of the game pushed the Littleborough side back into their own half but were unable to add to there earlier score and the game finished 29 - 7.

Saturday 16th January 2010

Hawcoat Park 1st XV v Garstang

Won 8 - 5

Before starting any match report the first people I saw as I arrived at the club were Nobby Clarke and Alan Artis out 'forking' the pitch to ensure as much surface water as possible drained away off the pitch. That any match took place is testament to the aforementioned pair, Eddie France and the other volunteers who work tirelessly to ensure the Hawcoat Park pitch is as good, if not better, than any other in the county. Certainly no other games took place in the North Lancs. Division 1.

As in the reverse fixture away, Garstang were certainly a big side right across the pitch, particularly up front. Their big pack certainly had the best of the early exchanges and as usual the Hawcoat Park defence had to be strong to keep them out.

Conditions were not easy and the Garstang team were very workmanlike making progress very difficult. After early Garstang domination, Hawcoat Park managed to slowly get a good hold on the game. Midway through the half Hawcoat Park took the lead, scrum half Sam Hilton made some prompting short drives to get the maroon and whites into the Garstang half, and all the forwards grafted hard to camp in the Garstang 'red zone'. Back row Danny White latched onto a loose ball, made a diagonal run and did very well to stretch a long arm over the line to touch down. The fly half just missed the conversion from wide out. Half time 5 - 0.

The second half was just as tight, an 'arm wrestle' with neither team really dominating the play. Any criticism against the homeside would be they lost the ball too often when driving the ball, i.e. their ball retention was not good. Equally the defence right across the team was very strong and had to be to keep Garstang out. When under pressure it is always good to have such experienced players as the second row pairing of Martin Kennedy and Steve Slater calling the shots.

With 15 minutes to go fly half Mike Winfield calmly booted over a 30 metre penalty goal to stretch the home sides lead to 8 - 0.

Right in the final minute the Garstang centre deservedly touched down for a try right in the corner. The space was created when Hawcoat Parks two best tacklers on the day, Dave Gallagher and Danny White clashed heads when making a strong 'pincer' tackle from either side. The Garstang centre latched onto the loose ball and made use of the space to touch down. Final score 8 - 5.

Certainly not a classic from a flowing rugby point of view but two important points earned by a grafting workmanlike performance from the whole Hawcoat Park side.

A tight scrap is just what Dave Gallagher thrives on and he deservedly took the Man of the Match award with his all action display, particularly with some timely hard tackles, closely followed by Danny White and Sam Hilton neither of whom ever take a backward step.

It was good to see first team skipper Jason Priss coming through his 15 minute spell off the replacement bench after a knee injury.

Unfortunately the A Team at home to Orrell had to be cancelled due to a mixture of a frozen and waterlogged pitch.

Saturday 2nd January 2010

Hawcoat Park 1st XV v Windermere

Draw 3 - 3

If the TV companies were at Hawcoat Park last Saturday their highlights programme would not have taken very long to put together. Maybe it was the fact the maroon and whites last game was at the beginning of December or too much Christmas pudding, but for whatever the reason this was a disappointing 'rusty' performance by the home side.

Due to injuries Windermere had not been able to play on the original date for this game back in October, but they have recovered well and were the usual workmanlike side for the game. They started very well and took the lead in the first minute when their full back booted a 45 metre straight penalty goal. Making good use of the wind advantage Windermere certainly had the best of the early exchanges, as usual led by some big hits from back row Danny White, the Hawcoat Park defence had to be strong to keep Windermere out.

Midway through the half Hawcoat Park levelled the score when centre Mike Winfield calmly booted over a 30 metre penalty goal against the wind.

Soon after we looked to be scoring a try in the corner when winger George Hilton beat his man on the outside but just put his foot in touch. Half time 3 - 3.

As the wind became icy and conditions difficult unfortunately for the watching spectators the second half followed a similar pattern, a typical 'New Year' game with lots of handling mistakes and wrong options mixed with good well organised defence from both sides. The game became a forward battle and skipper Brad Morrow was leading by example on the tackling front well supported by his front row partners, Dave Gallagher and Ray Sayle.

Hawcoat park had a chance to snatch victory at the end but Mike Winfield's penalty kick attempt just passed by the wrong side of the post. In all honesty from their determined performance Windermere deserved something from the game and a draw was probably the right result on the day.

The home side will need to step up their performance in the coming weeks, with a tough game away at Bolton this week.

The Hawcoat Park second team 2nd round of the Raging Bull cup away at Blackpool was called off the morning of the game due to a frozen pitch.

Saturday 12th December 2009

Old Bedians v Hawcoat Park 1st XV

Won 17 - 18

Preparations for the game were not helped when the Hawcoat Park mini bus would not start. Cars had to be 'magiced' up from all directions resulting in an arrival in Manchester just on kick off time.

Play was disjointed in the opening part of the game with Old Bedians dominating possession and territory. Their flyhalf just missed a couple of penalty attempts. The defence across the complete team had to be top notch to keep the Old Bedians team, it was clear they were fielding a powerful pack and tended to keep the play tight to their forwards. As usual back row Danny White was putting in some bone crunching tackles well supported by skipper Brad Morrow and the likes of Steve Slater and Tim Clark.

The penalty count continued to rise in favour of the home side and the maroon and whites were reliant on flyhalf Scott Kaighan's control and kicking game to relieve pressure.

Towards the end of the first half and a little against the run of play Hawcoat Park took the lead. Tenacious scrum half Sam Hilton was having a strong game, he spotted a gap and made a clean break, passing to the supporting Danny White who made good ground before parting to Scott Kaighan who shot under the posts, converting his own try. Half Time 0 - 7.

Soon into the second half we extended our lead, scrum half Sam Hilton was quick to pounce on a mix up behind the home sides line to touch down. Unfortunately the ball fell off the kicking tee when Scott Kaighan ran up to take the conversion, 0 - 12.

Old Bedians came right back and close to the scrum their centre ran a good angle strongly to burst through creating the space for the Bedians full back to touch down under the posts for a converted try, 7 - 12.

The Bedians forward had all the momentum at this stage and on the back of 4/5 penalties on the bounce camped on the Hawcoat Park line and it came as no real surprise when their hooker squeezed over the line, the conversion was just missed making the score 12 - 12.

Hawcoat Park then had a good spell of pressure during which replacements Callum Ramsay and Chris Thompson came on and both showed up well for the remainder of the game.

During this good spell flyhalf Scot Kaighan brilliantly booted over two penalty goals from 40 and 35 metres, one right out towards the touch line. This made the score 12 - 18. Old Bedians were not to be out done and came right back, from a good forward drive their impressive No. 8 crashed over. Thankfully their fly half was not kicking at goal as well as Scott Kaighan and the conversion attempt just missed.

With the score 17 - 18 and 10 minutes to go the vastly experienced Martin Kennedy, Dave Gallagher and Ray Sayle talked to their younger team mates and guided them through a nervous period to earn an extremely close win.

Not the best of performances by Hawcoat Park against a much improved and workmanlike Old Bedians side. The start of the day and late arrival did not help but the maroon and whites gladly took their first away win of the season. After hearing the A Team had also won the celebrations got under way for the club's annual Cabaret Night with a Royal Variety Performance theme.

Sam Hilton deservedly took the players Man of the Match with an all action display, with half back partner Scott Kaighan kicking very well and having his usual classy game. The Old Bedians back row were a strong unit and Danny White, Tim Clark and Mike Lightfoot did well to match them.

Saturday 5th December 2009

Didsbury Toc H v Hawcoat Park 1st XV

Lost 78 - 5

The Hawcoat Park RU selection committee picked a side to travel to Didsbury Toc H RU on Saturday, disadvantaged by six enforced changes from the team that won at home by 52 points the weekend previous. But on Saturday morning three more cry offs changed the situation again, departing late and with 14 players a chance phone call managed to restore the team to 15.

On a rain soaked pitch Hawcoat put pressure on their hosts many times during the game, but the toll of continuous tackling was starting to tell, and, as the first half progressed to the half time whistle, Hawcoat Park only got within 10 meters of the Toc H line three times with runs from Mike Winfield, Ricky Gadsden and Sam Hilton, where as Toc H had crossed Hawcoats' line five times and with 3 conversions to give them score line of 0-31.

The half time talk was centred around Hawcoats' defense, and for a number of times during the second half, they stemmed Toc H flow of possession and forward advantage. But again fatigue was weighing heavily on the Hawcoat Park team and this was evident as the game came into the last 10 minutes.

With nothing to lose, Hawcoat Park hit back from a Mike Winfield kick that put Toc H on the back foot. With minutes left, Dan White stole the ball and lunged at the line for a touch down gaining a well earned five points as Mike Winfields' kick skimmed the outside of the posts. The score line finishing at 5-78 to Toc H.

It would be wrong to pick out individuals, but as the coach I want victory at every game which means 100% effort from all the players and, although it can be classed as a heavy loss, I can only applaud the effort and commitment the guys put in under the circumstances.

Saturday 28th November 2009

Hawcoat Park 1st XV v Tarleton

Won 52 - 0

Preparation for the game was disrupted when centre James Howden tweaked a hamstring during the warm up and had to drop out. Fortunately former Barbarian tourist Paul Burns was on hand to add his experience to the team and have an influential game.

It was Tarleton who started the best and for the first 15 minutes camped in the Hawcoat Park half. Only good defence throughout the team kept them out with both full back Mike Winfield and back row Dave Gallagher pulling off try saving tackles.

Midway through the half against the run of play Hawcoat Park took the lead, a good forward drive created some space for fly half Scott Kaighan to draw the tackles on him and slip a very neat short pass to the strong running centre Matt Sayle to force his way over under the posts with Scott Kaighan adding the conversion. Winger Tom Shephard made a good run and went close, but after a very tight first half the score at half time was 7 - 0 to the home side.

This turned out to be the classic 'game of two halves' as the maroon and whites turned on a great performance for the home spectators as Tarleton started to tire and pick up a couple of injuries from the constant pressure they were put under.

The second try came when the ball was quickly moved out wide, starting with a good pass from scrum half Steve McArthur. When centre Paul Burns got his hands on the ball 40 metres out he went on a strong run, made good use of a dummy pass to his winger Matt Burrows and a strong hand off to the full back to touch down for a great try, 12 - 0.

This gave the Hawcoat Park side the confidence and freedom to play some great rugby. All the following trys came from the backs, but it was the forwards who drove into the heart of the Tarleton defence to put them on the back foot and allow fly half Scott Kaighan to control the game and distribute the ball out wide excellently. Winger Tom Shephard was first to benefit when he finished off well in the corner. In a short period of time centre Matt Sayle showed good determination to force his way over for two further trys and complete his hat trick.

Also to collect a hat trick was winger Matt Burrows who showed great pace and strong running to touch down three times in the club house corner. During this spell he showed the home followers and his team mates that he should see more ball as he is improving all the time and a really good prospect.

The final score of 52 - 0 was a little unjust on the Tarleton side whose effort and commitment particularly in the first half did not deserve such a beating. The second half style of play from Hawcoat Park side was great to watch and a performance to be proud of.

Back row Danny White was the Man of the Match and stand out player throughout, his strong defence, powerful running and all round distribution must make dad Bill a maroon and white stalwart himself very proud. Matt Sayle and Matt Burrows did very well to collect hat tricks but they would be the first to admit that it is Matt's dad Ray and the likes of Messrs. Clark, Slater, Morrow and Kennedy who do the hard work up front to provide the ball for half backs Steve McArthur and Scott Kaighan to distribute so well.

The one real down side was a dislocated shoulder suffered by combative hooker Adam Grainger. Adam like his dad Martin never takes a backward step and as a heart far bigger than his physical size.

It is always good to finish off a side with a few points but a hard test is to come next week with a trip to table toppers Didsbury TOC H in Manchester.

Unfortunately the Rossendale pitch was waterlogged and the A Team lads again missed out on a game.

Saturday 14th November 2009

De La Salle v Hawcoat Park 1st XV

Lost 31 - 0

Following the heavy rain all morning come the kick off time the pitch was not really playable. However, both sides got on with it and played out a good game of rugby considering the conditions.

The star performer though was Mr. Ian McKenzie, the Manchester Society referee, whose control and man management of the difficult game could not be faulted.

The early stages were pretty even with both sides regularly putting boot to ball and the De La Salle full back demonstrating he had a kick on him like a mule!

Fifteen minutes into the half De La Salle scored their first try after applying a sustained spell of pressure they moved the ball out wide for their centre to crash over for a try which was converted, 7 - 0.

The team had suffered further late cry offs and as the game he was due to referee was cancelled Ciaran Trainor volunteered to stand in at full back and he and both wingers, Tom Shepherd and Mark Trundle were fielding and returning the ball well.

With Callum Ramsay securing good line out ball and all the pack working hard and following skipper Brad Morrows example by making those short hard drives, the Hawcoat Park forwards were matching their opponents. In the backs De La Salle had very direct centres and pacey wingers and full back and the patched up Hawcoat Park three-quarters were doing a good job defending and covering each other to keep them out.

Twice before half time we were stretched out wide for the strong running De La Salle winger to touch down for unconverted trys. Half time 17 - 0.

The first spell of the second half was all Hawcoat Park as we camped in the De La Salle 25. All of our back row, Steve Slater, Tim Clark and Mike Lightfoot were very close to forcing their way over but the De La Salle defence just managed to hold out. It was during this that we really deserved to score a try. A couple of kickable penalty kicks were turned down as a positive approach was taken and even with scrum half Sam Hilton driving them on it was just not to be.

With the front row of Ray Sayle, Adam Grainger and Brad Morrow not taking a backward step the scrum was going really well and as the game progressed we got a couple of really good push ons.

In the final part of the half De La Salle scored two further converted trys through a centre and winger. The second one only coming when full back Ciaran Trainor pulled a groin muscle when going for a kick through which allowed the De La Salle centre to kick on and regather. Final score 31 - 0.

This really was a good team performance from all the maroon and whites in very difficult playing conditions. It was great to have the influential Callum Ramsey back in the team, and centre James Howden took the Man of the Match award with his driving runs into the heart of the De La Salle defence and his centre partner Matt Sayle was not far behind him. Wingers Mark Trundle and Tom Shepherd also did very well.

A final word also for De La Salle who have a reputation around the league for over enjoying the physical aspect of our game. There was no problem at all in the respect and they were always hard but certainly fair throughout the match and very hospitable and friendly after the game. In a nutshell everything you look for in a game of junior rugby at our level.

Saturday 7th November 2009

Hawcoat Park 1st XV v Hutton

Won 20 - 10

On a difficult wet day for rugby, Hawcoat Park ground out a good win against a Hutton side who beat them at home and away last season. After an even first 10 minutes Hutton's impressive backs showed a couple of glimpses of what they were capable of and took the lead with a classic wingers try when they moved the ball wide through both centres to give their winger the space to score in the corner.

For the remainder of the game the Hawcoat Park backs, with centres James Howden and Matt Sayle working well together, did well defensively to prevent the Hutton backs the chance to dominate the game, although they always looked capable on the counter attack.

Mid way through the first half Hawcoat Park bounced back with a great try of their own. From a scrum just inside our own half No 8 Tim Clark picked up and passed to scrum half Sam Hilton whose neat pass created some space for fly half Scott Kaighan who went on a great jinking run and leave defenders in his wake as he dived under the posts, he converted his own try 7 - 5.

The heavy rain was making open rugby difficult but Hawcoat Park stretched their lead when winger George Hilton latched on to a loose ball on about the half way line and showed good determined running to touch down for a try.

Hutton applied some late pressure in the first half but Hawcoat Park defended well, including holding Hutton up over our line to hang on for a 12 -5 half time lead.

Into the second half indiscipline in technical areas meant Hutton always had sufficient penalties to keep the home side in their own half. As the score remained 12 - 5 the few home fans who had braved the weather rather then watch the International match on the telly felt a Hutton try was about to come and if converted the score would be a draw. At this point winger Matt Burrows pulled off a great try saving tackle when it looked like his opposite number was sure to score a try. Debutant Kev Wright was showing up well at full back and could be heard marshalling his 'troops' ahead of him.

With time running out Hawcoat Park scored the try that gave some breathing space. The industrious and tall Danny White charged down an attempted clearance kick from the Hutton fly half, he did well to regather the ball and commit two defenders before slipping an over head pass to his mate Sam Hilton who slid over for a try.

From the restart the home side applied further pressure and fly half Scott Kaighan coolly slotted over a drop goal, 20 - 5.

In the second half, in particular, skipper Brad Morrow and the home sides scrum had dominated the Hutton pack. For the final 15 minutes the game went to uncontested scrums when the Hutton prop hurt his shoulder. It was from one of these uncontested scrums that Hutton scored a consolation try when they moved the ball out wide for their winger to score in the corner, final score 20 - 10.

This was a good workmanlike performance from the whole Hawcoat Park team to earn this victory. Hooker Dave Gallagher who is not available every week certainly showed what we are missing both with his determined runs and defence and along with the likes of Steve Slater and Jim Steele did all the hard work that the conditions needed. No. 8 Tim Clark put in a couple of his trade mark runs at the right times. All the three-quarters worked well as a unit against the impressive Hutton backs with winger George Hilton deserving his try and brother Sam making those brave committing runs that a scrum half has to make on bad days for rugby.

Saturday 31st October 2009

Bury v Hawcoat Park 1st XV

Lost 22 - 20

After an horrendous journey down the motorway there was no warm up available and it was straight on the pitch for the kick off.

It appeared to have no adverse effects as all the play came from Hawcoat Park from the start with Scott Kaighan, Danny White and Steve Slater all prominent. From this pressure fly half Scott Kaighan slotted over a 35 metre penalty goal. As it turned out Bury played a tremendously disciplined game after giving away no further kickable penalties and only a further five penalties all game.

Soon after the Bury flyhalf levelled the scores with a similar penalty goal.

The rest of the first half was all Hawcoat Park. The first try came when props Brad Morrow and Andy Kent making strong drives into the Bury defence, the ball was quickly moved out wide by scrum half Sam Hilton and centre Matt Sayle slipped a neat pass to number 8 Tim Clark, who forced his way over out wide.

Building on the pressure the second try was an individual effort from centre Matt Sayle. He put up a high kick which the home full back could not gather, Sayle took the ball on the bounce and had the strength to stretch over near the posts, Scott Kaighan converted.

All was looking good at half time with Hawcoat Park leading, 15 - 3.

Into the second half with the penalty count constantly increasing against them Hawcoat Park struggled to get any real foot hold on the game. With all the territorial advantage it came as no surprise when all the Bury pressure created a try. Their flyhalf booted across field and their winger took a good bounce to touch down. A penalty goal and drop goal followed. In between a clean Scott Kaighan break created a try for Steve Slater only to be pulled back for a forward pass which the referee did well to spot from 30 metres behind play. This decision even had the Bury supporters near to us shaking their heads in disbelief.

With a slight 15 - 14 lead and the time running out, Hawcoat Park scored their third try thinking it would be decisive.

Good play from hooker Adam Grainger and second row Martin Kennedy (returning to his former club) created some space for fellow second row Lorcan Martindale who showed good determination to get over the try line wide out.

Unfortunately there was still time for Bury to boot another one of their penalties and in the last five minutes scored their winning try, when their back row showed some good strength to force his way over.

It is really difficult to put into words how we lost this game after looking the better team all game. Even the most die hard Bury fan would have to admit they used their 'get out of jail free' card to win this one.

There were good performances across the whole team. A turning point was Danny White having to leave the field with a head injury, he was showing up well in both attack and defence playing out of position in the centre. This meant back row Steve Slater who has having a great game in the pack had to move out into the backs.

Full back Gareth Jesson had a strong game and put in one crunching tackle that prevented a try. Fly half Scott Kaighan took another opposition Man of the Match award but this really was a game we should have returned with the two points.

Saturday 17th October 2009

Trafford MV v Hawcoat Park 1st XV

Lost 52 - 13

On a perfect big pitch and on a perfect day for running rugby the patched up Hawcoat Park side were always going to be up against it playing the unbeaten and table topping Trafford side in Manchester.

The scoreline reads as a hammering, however, it in no way reflects the commitment and effort shown throughout the whole Hawcoat Park team. As a quality unit the Trafford side had the ability to make the most of every Hawcoat Park mistake or missed tackle.

In the opening minutes the Trafford Centre showed for the first time the quality he was going to show throughout the game, slicing through at pace to touch down.

We dug deep and had a good spell during which fly half Scott Kaighan booted over two long-range penalty goals to give Hawcoat Park the lead for the one and only time, 5 - 6.

As to be expected Trafford stepped up a gear and back row Danny White despite an injured hand was putting in some crunching tackles on the homeside, and at one point diminutive hooker Adam Grainger felled the man mountain of a Trafford prop with a perfect tackle. Despite the all round effort shown by the Hawcoat Park team Trafford managed 3 more trys before half time, 24 - 6.

Early in the second half back row Mike Lightfoot picked up a chest injury and with no recognised replacement club stalwart and assistant coach Martin Grainger put his hand up and took up the hooking position and at the same time fulfil an ambition of playing first team rugby with his son Adam. It also made it again a side that contained two father and son combinations with prop Ray Sayle and son Matt in the centre.

Two more converted Trafford trys came before Hawcoat Park had their best moment of the game. The ball came loose when Ian Irvine and George Hilton put in a combined spot tackle and No. 8 Tim Clark picked up the loose ball and went on a barnstorming (his words) run into the Trafford half, he drew the full back and slipped the ball to the supporting Scott Kaighan who side stepped the remaining cover to touch down under the posts and convert his own try.

With lads carrying knocks and no replacements to call it was no surprise that Trafford scored a further two converted trys before the end of the game, one of which coming from the impressive back row forward replacement entering the game fresh and keen to show what he could do against a tiring Hawcoat Park side.

Stand in skipper Brad Morrow put in his usual grafting performance from the front row but can be proud of the effort of his team mates around him.

Trafford rightly selected classy fly half Scott Kaighan as the Hawcoat Park Man of the Match. The players picked Ian Irvine helping out at scrum half and showing good distribution and defence skills all game.

Young second row Lorcan Martindale must have pushed very hard for this award as he showed up well with the ball in hand all game and looks a good prospect for the future. His vastly experienced second row partner Martin Kennedy also had his usual solid game and certainly makes an impact with his sound effects and clear calls throughout the game.

Saturday 10th October 2009

Hawcoat Park 1st XV v Littleborough

Lost 10 - 24

Littleborough's late arrival did not prevent them from hitting the ground running at the start of this game. For the first 20 minutes or so the home side only got into the Littleborough half on a couple of occasions. The Hawcoat Park play was not helped in the opening minutes when influencial Danny White had to leave the field with a nasty finger injury, he was to be joined at hospital a little later by full back Jon Moses with an ankle injury. With two Hawcoat Park players sin binned for technical offences and two Littleborough lads also going to hospital it was a bit of a disjointed game.

The only real surprise in the first half was that Littleborough only scored 10 points through a penalty goal and a converted try, scored by their impressive No. 8 forward when he caught a ball at the back of a line out to storm over under the posts.

Playing towards their favoured club house end the Hawcoat Park lads stepped up their game and applied some good forward pressure with Dave Gallagher and Brad Morrow both going close to scoring. The ball was eventually moved out wide for Scott Kaighan to slip a neat pass to winger George Hilton who ran well to force his way over in the corner.

The home side were in for a shock if they felt they were going to kick on from this score. Five minutes or so later the Littleborough back row forward peeled off a maul situation to force his way over near to the posts for a converted try, 5 - 17.

With time starting to run out Hawcoat Park again reduced the deficit when the ball was moved out wide for Matt Sayle to slip the ball to winger Matt Burrows who also ran well to force his way over in the corner. With both wingers scoring the only trys perhaps they did not see enough of the ball during the game?

Hawcoat Park were pressing for a converted try which would have levelled the scores but Littleborough broke away for their rangey centre to run down the left hand side beating a couple of tackles to run round and score by the posts. The try was converted, final score 10 - 24.

The injuries and sin binnings did not help but this was a flat performance by Hawcoat Park, Littleborough worked very hard for each other as a team and certainly deserved to win. However, with a bit better application this was a game Hawcoat park could easily have won.

The Hilton brothers, Sam at scrum half and George on the wing both had good games, working hard both in attack and defence. Back row Mike Lightfoot had a solid game throughout, stepping in to replace Callum Ramsay as the main line out ball winner and putting in some crunching tackles. With a comibed age of over 100 props Jim Steele and Ray Sayle both tried their hardest to lift their teammates but it is a performance that will have to be improved upon with table topping Trafford away awaiting next week.

Saturday 3rd October 2009

Garstang v Hawcoat Park 1st XV

Lost 36 - 5

An understrengthed Hawcoat Park side travelled to play Garstang on a windy and difficult day for rugby. Right from the start it was clear the bigger and more powerful Garstang pack had a clear dominance in the scrum and using this advantage hit us with everything they had from the kick off. Jonny Burrows was, as usual, tackling everything that moved and the defence from the complete team was solid. However, from constant pressure something had to give and 10 minutes into the game the big Garstang prop forced his way over from close range under the posts, the try was converted.

Against the wind scrum half Steve McArthur and flyhalf Gareth Jesson were doing a great job trying to keep Hawcoat Park going forward, but the game followed a similar pattern with the heavier Garstang pack proving difficult to contain. Their game plan involved bringing a strong inside centre onto a crash ball. The Hawcoat Park centres, Jon Moses and James Howden were tackling well but eventually space was created on the outside for their centre to touch down.

Mike Lightfoot, Danny White and Tim Clark made some crynching tackles and the whole Hawcoat Park team were working hard, nevertheless there was still time for Garstang to score two further converted trys before half time, both coming from back row forwards, half time 31 - 0.

Not long after the restart the Garstang centre scored a further try at which point the Hawcoat Park lads heads could have easily dropped. This was not to be the case and everyone of the team worked for each other. Both winger Matt Burrows and full back George Hilton both went close to scoring, centre Jon Moses pit one crunching but fair tackle on a rampaging prop which resulted in the Garstang lad having to leave the field. The front row of Ray Sayle, Brad Morrow and stand in prop Tim Clark were working hard to keep the well drilled Garstang side out.

Before the end there was just time for Tim Clark to force his way over for a deserved consolation try. He had worked hard and cover tackled all game.

There is no disgrace in getting beat by a better team if the effort is put in. A word for the Manchester Society referee who had a very good game.

Second row Lorcan Martindale had a good game with ball in hand and ran well. George Hilton had a solid game at full back, never an easy position in such windy conditions. A word also for Peter Steele, who made his own way to the game from University and certainly had a very solid game when coming on as a replacement.

Disappointingly Orrell could not raise a team to travel to Barrow and the A team game was off.

Saturday 26th September 2009

Hawcoat Park 1st XV v Bolton

Won 16 - 13

You can win a game with free flowing 'champagne' rugby or you can grind out a win with grit and determination and this victory against a good Bolton side certainly fell into the second category. There is no doubting Bolton will have returned down the M6 disappointed not to have taken something from the game.

Hawcoat Park were a little short in the three-quarters and from the start it was clear Bolton had pacey and elusive three-quarters who were difficult to keep out. As the game developed Bolton did not really make the most of this advantage, but were also prevented by a workmanlike defence displayed by the home side.

It came as no surprise when Bolton took the lead 15 minutes into the game when good hands right across the line allowed their full back the opportunity to put their winger in right at the corner. The conversion was missed.

Slowly we got a foot hold in the game with Scott Kaighan's tactical kicking making ground and before the half time whistle there was time for the impressive fly half to boot a 35 metre penalty goal, 3 - 5.

The start of the second half followed a similar pattern with both packs grafting hard to earn any ground, in the line out Callum Ramsey and Mike Lightfoot were working hard to provide a good supply of ball.

Hawcoat Park were in the fortunate position of being able to bring on the very experienced Jim Steele and Dave Gallagher to bolster and freshen up the pack and this presence was certainly to make a difference.

With 15 minutes to go Hawcoat Park took the lead for the first time when Scott Kaighan calmly slotted over a 30 metre penalty goal, 6 - 5.

With the attitude Bolton had already displayed, there was no way they were gong to sit back and accept this to be the final result. Sure enough a good handling movement allowed their strong running centre to crash over right at the corner flag. The conversation was missed, 6 - 10.

Scott Kaighan reduced their lead with a 30 metre penalty goal. but this was immediately evened out by the Bolton fly half, 9 - 13.

There was just enough time for Hawcoat Park to snatch the win in a 'grandstand' finish. The forwards put on a great drive with war horse Jim Steele and Tim Clark to the fore, the ball was slipped to former skipper Dave Gallagher who scored one of his typical trys forcing his way with three defenders hanging on to him. Scott Kaighan booted a tremendous conversion from wide out, 16 - 13 final score.

It would be wrong to start to pick out individuals in what was a very determined workmanlike showing from Hawcoat park, a performance that was appreciated by the good crowd. However, all action scrum half Sam Hilton took the players Man of the Match award and Callum Ramsey demonstrated what we will be missing with him heading off to Nottingham Uni this week. Andy Kent is another one returning to Newcastle Uni and he has done a great job standing in at prop at the start of the season.

A big thank you to referee Gary Walkden for stepping in at late notice and controlling an exciting game well.

An enjoyable night in the bar was made better when news came through that the A Team had won away at Colne and Nelson and remain unbeaten.

Saturday 19th September 2009

Ashton -Under-Lyne v Hawcoat Park 1st XV

Lost 20 - 11

Hawcoat Park made the long trip to Manchester for what was anticipated to be a tough game. Not to be disappointed this was a tight arm wrestle with both teams only managing to cross for one try each.

Ashton were a big pack particularly the second row pairing and No. 8, applying some real pressure in the first scrum, the ref spotted an offence and the Ashton fly half slotted over a 35 metre goal.

With back row Mike Lightfoot leading by example the Hawcoat Park defence had to work overtime to keep Ashton out, as they cranked up the pressure.

With Scott Kaighan's leadership and kicking game and with centres Matt Sayle and James Howden running strong we gradually moved up field and scored a good try that had the Sayle name stamped all over it. From a good Callum Ramsay line out win, Dad Ray drove for the line, scrum half Sam Hilton recycled the ball quickly and son Matt ran strongly to force his way over.

Soon after fly half Scott Kaighan booted a 30 metres penalty goal to extend our lead 3 - 8.

Skipper Matt Knagg and his pack were having to continue to work hard to keep Ashton out, and avoiding scrums where possible with Callum Ramsay and Mike Lightfoot holding their own in the line out against big lads. However, they could not prevent a couple of penalty goals, slotted over by the efficient kicking home fly half, half time 9 - 8.

Soon after half time the ref spotted another offence and another home penalty came, 12 - 8. Hardworking Hawcoat Park hooker Brad Morrow took a knock to the back and had to be replaced by Adam Grainger. Adam joined the fun by straight away putting in a couple of crunching tackles. He was joined by winger Rick Gadsden who stepped inside to make a couple of timely tackles.

With time running out Hawcoat Park turned down a penalty kick chance to go for the try needed for victory. The tap move did not come off the ball went to ground, the home sides giant No. 8 snapped up the lose ball and set off down the pitch. Nearly scoring himself, our winger Matt Burrow, just managing to stop him, the ball was moved out to the home sides winger for him to touch down. The conversion was missed but soon after the home sides fly half kicked a drop goal, 20 - 8.

Hawcoat Park came back and applied some more pressure but there was only time for Scott Kaighan to boot a penalty goal with the last kick of the match.

Scott Kaighan deservedly took our Man of the Match award but had no chance in the drink off against the home sides 6 feet 6 inch No. 8. Mike Lightfoot was close behind him and had his best game for some time putting in some crunching tackles and doing well in the line out. Scrum half Sam Hilton playing his first game of the season grafted as hard as normal. This was a game we could easily have won but there was no doubting the effort was put in by the whole team in making this a very close game.

Saturday 12th September 2009

Hawcoat Park 1st XV v Old Bedians

Won 42 - 17

On a perfect day for rugby and a pitch that was asking to be played on Hawcoat Park first team welcomed Old Bedians to Barrow for the first ever game between the two sides.

The Didsbury based side made light of their long bus journey and started the game competitively and the game was territorially even. It took a couple of 35 metre penalty goals coolly slotted over by fly half Scott Kaighan to settle the home sides nerves. Slowly we started to get on top and from a position 30 metres out scrum half Adam Grainger went on a run across the pitch and timed his inside pass to Tim Clark perfectly, as the No. 8 went on one of his barnstorming runs to touch down by the posts, Scott Kaighan converted.

Not to be out done, Old Bedians came back and after a good spell of forward pressure their second row deservedly forced his way over for an unconverted try, 13 - 5.

Slowly the home side started to get on top up front, particularly in the set scrum where the front row of Ray Sayle, Brad Morrow and Andy Kent were strong. Using this advantage we built on our lead, Tim Clark scored another strong running try after taking a pass from back row partner Mike Lightfoot. Scott Kaighan converted. The three-quarters next got into the act, the ball was moved out wide quickly and Neil France slipped a neat pass to winger Matt Burrows who took his chance well to touch down. Half time 25 - 5.

Hawcoat Park kept up the pressure into the second half, after a spell of short forward drives, led by skipper Matt Knagg and his second row partner Callum Ramsey, No. 8 Tim Clark forced his way over and scored his hat trick try and 'jug of beer buying try'! Soon after fly half Scott Kaighan showed his class and after spotting a gap in the defence jinxed his way over and converted his own try. At 37 - 5 the home fans were anticipating Old Bedians heads to drop and a few more trys for the home side. This was not the case, we were pressing near their line when the ball went loose, the Old Bedians centre with his two knees bandaged in all honesty did not look capable of scoring but he showed good determination and some speed to run the 70 metres to score a try, which was converted. Next up the same centre showed good strength this time to force his way over from close range, 37 - 17.

After quite some time on the side lines Simon Burns came on as replacement scrum half and straight away looked his usual lively self, going on darting runs and showing good strength to make good ground.

Before the final whistle there was just time for the home side to sore the best try of the game. Centres James Howden and Matt Sayle and full back George Hilton all showed good hands to create some space for winger Matt Burrows who once again ran well with determination to score wide out, 42 - 17.

It was a good all round display by Hawcoat Park to earn their first victory in this league. Whilst not featuring on the score board back row Danny White was at the heart of all that was good, both in attack and with his work rate and big hits in defence. At times Old Bedians could not touch the strength of No. 8 Tim Clarks running and he deserved his hat trick.

Scott Kaighan also makes a big difference with his classy ball distribution and all round kicking game.

Saturday 5th September 2009

Birchfield V Hawcoat Park 1st XV

Lost 33 - 20

For their first game in North Lancs. Division 1, Hawcoat Park had a difficult away game at Widnes against Birchfield. From the kick off we got on the wrong side of the referee and the first eight penalties went to the home side so with all their territorial advantage it came as no surprise when Birchfield booted a penalty goal to go 3 - 0 up.

Slowly Hawcoat Park settled down and using the wind advantage started to play a bit of rugby in the Birchfield half. From a good forward drive involving skipper Matt Knagg, his second row partner Chris Thompson and most of the pack we camped close to the line.

Quick thinking scrum half Adam Grainger went blind, showed a great dummy to touch down. Fly half Joe Mason booted a great conversion.

Birchfield came back and after moving the ball out wide their winger chopped over the defence, regathered the ball to race in for a converted try to make it 10 - 7 to the home side.

Fly half Joe Mason was really prominent with his classy distribution and kicking and booted two long range penalty goals, one from the half way line.

Before half time there was just time for the aggressive and powerful Birchfield pack to force their way over wide out with the second row getting the final touch down. Half time, 15 - 13.

With the use of the wind advantage Birchfield started the second half very strongly with their strong running centres making good ground in support of their pack play.

They added three further unconverted trys and one penalty goal. Two of the trys coming from their promising winger to complete his hat trick.

There was just time for Hawcoat Park to score the best try of the game. No. 8 Tim Clark had a powerful game throughout and went on a strong run parting to the supporting Adam Grainger who then passed to Joe Mason who ran well to beat the cover and touch down converting his own try. Full time 33 - 20.

It was a good workmanlike team effort first up from Hawcoat Park and something to build on.

Stalwart club man Ray Sayle covered for injured skipper Jason Priss at prop and had his usual solid game and of course joining his son Matt in the team. Along with his centre partner James Howden, Matt did well up against two powerful centres, with as usual, hooker Brad Morrow and No. 8 Tim Clark to the fore the pack did well against a strong Birchfield set of forwards.

Just a world also for replacements Mark (mad dog) Hanley and Martin Kennedy who both played well after coming on.

They may be tough opponents on the field but off the field the Birchfield club were very sociable hosts, making everyone most welcome. Just what rugby union is all about at our grass roots level.

Saturday 29th August 2009

Friendly

Hawcoat Park v Millom

Hawcoat A team entertained Orrell on Easter Monday for the top of the table clash to try to gain an advantage in the final games of the season, Both sides fielded a strong line up from the start which contributed in a close game for 80 minutes, Hawcoat took an early lead through a Matt Burrows try in the corner after strong forward work and neat passing through the backs. Orrell then came on the attack and put Hawcoat under pressure before Daz Carter cleared Hawcoats' lines to force the game into Orrells half, shortly after Matt Sayle slotted over a penalty to make it 8-0 to the home side. Orrell hit back soon after with a try and conversion to make it 8-7. Back on the attack Hawcoat put Orrell under more pressure Daz Carter chipping over the Orrell defence and Nick Johns chasing up forced the Orrell winger into a mistake Johns picked up the ball to put in Neil France who backed him up for the try. The first half was nip and tuck with Hawcoat coming out stronger in the forwards and the backs, all the forwards were having a great game and supplying good ball for the backs to run on to the first half ended 13-7 to Hawcoat.

The second half was a more even contest Orrell getting stronger in the forwards and putting Hawcoat under extreme pressure in the scrum after some dubious decisions going Orrells way Hawcoat got a break and after some great work Neil France crossed over for his second try of the match, Matt Sayle adding the conversion to make it 20-7. Orrell hit back within ten minutes with a try under the stick to make it 20-14. With the second half taking on an end to end style one more penalty a piece was scored to make the final score 23-17 to Hawcoat.

I must thank all the players who got on the pitch for their efforts regardless of how long they were on the pitch this was an important game for the team and the club and the spirit they showed in holding a very good Orrell side has to be commended, next Saturday Hawcoat play their final match of the season away to Rossendale a win will guarantee top spot in the league.

Hawcoat Park A team Played a rescheduled game on Good Friday against a young but determined Colne and Nelson team, there were some changes with Tim Clark, Sam Hilton, James Aitken (welcome back) and Eddy Aitken coming back to the team. Hawcoat started quite well with the forwards showing their massive power in the first scrum from which after fast slick passing (the road runner Rob) Davies touched down in the corner for his first and well deserved try of the season, Sean Balfour then added a conversion from the touch line to make it 7-0 in the first four minutes. Hawcoat continued with their dominance Sam Hilton playing really well urging on the pack and distributing great ball for the backs, which culminated in him scoring a great try under the sticks. Midway through the first half Tim Clark, Mark Harper and Ben Woolveridge came on to add fresh legs to the game all the replacements showing straight away their desire to do well with great runs from Harper and Clark Woolveridge with his dancing feet having a steady game. Not long after being on Tim Clark added to the scoring tally with a typical strong unrelenting run to touch down. Eddy Aitken added another try as did Gaz Dewey. One more try was added to the score before the break to seal Hawcoats' dominance.

The second half saw Skipper Jase Trundle come on for Sam Hilton James Aiken returned to the team after a long absence the second half was a much quieter affair with Hawcoat only scoring a further two tries one from the greatly improving Jamie Milligan. The team as a whole played really well showing great supporting runs As ever the forwards were in the thick of the action Dave Gallagher having a solid game as was the returning Lee Minhinnick who after a 35 metre run was still eager to power on. The team now look forward to hosting Orrell on Easter Monday for the most crucial game of the season for Hawcoat a win is the order of the day. A special mention for Ryan Brown who pulled on his boots for Colne as they were short a front row replacement this is the third time he has done it for the club this season a real measure of sportsmanship Thanks Ryan.

Saturday saw skipper Jase Trundle take a radically changed Hawcoat side travel to Grasshoppers, with Eddy Aiken called up for first team duties (well done Ed), Mark Burrows unable to travel, Andy Bennett, and Gaz Dewey missing as well as three props missing this was going to be a challenge. The game started with Preston putting Hawcoat under pressure straight away resulting in their taking the lead with a well taken penalty. Steve Macarthur soon hit back with a try from a tap penalty after good driving work from Mark O�Halloran and Tom Dodson. With a to and fro half continuing, Martin Heywood was next to score with a ball put through hands from the backs and a nice side step from Heywood saw him dive over for a well worked try.

The second half was a messy affair from Hawcoats' point of view trailing 11 -10 at the start a previously unknown lack of discipline was coming to the surface and it began to cost penalties. Preston must be praised for pinning Hawcoat in their own half for at least 25 minutes of the second half until Hawcoat regained some shape and started playing again, Rob Davies was in fine form and from his good running and slick passing he helped to start off two different moves which had a hand in two tries for Hawcoat one from Mark O�Halloran the other from Nobby France the game finished 22-11 to Hawcoat Park.

Heading into the Good Friday and Easter Monday matches Hawcoat will have to be on their toes to beat Colne and Nelson (Good Friday) and Orrell (Easter Monday). Knowing that a victory over Orrell will put Hawcoat in with the chance to win their league with one game left to play.

Thanks to Paul Jeffries, Martin Heywood, Nobby France and the rest of the lads for getting the win on Saturday see you all on Friday ��

Hawcoat Park a team travelled away on Saturday to play Clitheroe for the second time in two weeks, everybody knew from their first encounter that it would be no picnic. The game started at a fast pace with both sides trying to dominate key areas. Hawcoat were dominating the scrums and Clitheroe the line outs with Steve McArthur getting a good platform to distribute the ball to the backs the first try came after good straight running from Nick Johns and Eddy Aitken to put Jamie Milligan in the corner for the score, Jamie�s sixth try in seven games. Hawcoat then poured on the pressure and ran hard at every opportunity at the Clitheroe line after good attacking drives from Pete Cargan and Lee Minhinnick Steve Macarthur popped the ball out from the ruck for skipper Jase Trundle to touch down for the second try. The remainder of the first half was a hard contest and ended 10-0 to Hawcoat as Clitheroe picked up their game again not long before the break.

The second half started with Clitheroe attacking Hawcoat through the middle of the pitch and gaining substantial territory on one of their few visits into Hawcoats' twenty two, Strong defence meant that their attack was stopped after the ball was turned over in the ruck and Hawcoat came away in a counter attack lead by Andy Bennett and Eddy Aiken. Mark Burrows having another good game lead the next attack with some great running from the base of the solid Hawcoat scrum only a desperate Clitheroe defence stopped Hawcoat just short of the line. Clitheroe then had a period of sustained pressure for about ten minutes midway through the second half as all the hard work from Hawcoat seemed to tire them a little and the talking on the pitch seemed to go quiet, Hawcoat still held out to stop a brave Clitheroe from scoring, The team then seemed to galvanise itself and after some more great work from Mark Burrows, Pete Cargan and Liam Ducie, Rick Halfpenny launched himself through Clitheroes' line to touch down for the score. Hawcoat then piled on more pressure and as ever Andy Bennett touched down for the last score of the game. A game that was strongly contested in every part of the pitch was enjoyed by the players and spectators alike, Clitheroe have to be praised for their efforts again as they pushed even harder this week to score, Big praise to Hawcoat a team as they have for the fourth game in a row kept a clean sheet scoring 176 unanswered points a massive achievement. With only six games left in the season Hawcoat know only to well that we have to keep this up to be near the top of the league, Thanks to all the lads who turned up to travel this week a big thank you to Stan Steele who came on again and did well, a massive thanks to all the forwards who did a proper job on the pitch in attack and defence, a big thanks to all the backs who ran hard all game and played some great rugby again.

The A team took to the field on Saturday to play Clitheroe with a few points to prove to themselves. They did so with a truly awesome performance. Clitheroe put Hawcoat under pressure for the first ten minutes or so with strong running from their backs and good rucking from their pack. Then Hawcoat got a grip on the game, the first scrimmage was a deciding factor in the battle for forward dominance with a great shove to hurtle the Clitheroe pack off the ball. This would be the tale all game, with the forwards dominating in such a way this created a good platform for the half backs Steve McArthur and Sean Balfour to get the backs running hard 15 minutes in and Andy Bennett crossed for the first try of the game. The first half was a hard fought affair but the dominance of the Hawcoat team as a whole produced three more tries from Eddy Aiken, Gaz Dewey and Jamie Milligan, who scored the pick of the first half tries, after a massive shove in the scrum the ball was fizzed out through the backs for Jamie to score in the corner a text book try!!

The second half saw some changes skipper Jase Trundle coming off for Ryan Brown to return to the fold at hooker, Rob Davies on for Jamie Milligan on the wing, Clitheroe picked up their game and started coming on strong attacking where they could but the Hawcoat defence was equal to the task, Gaz Dewey ran in a superb try after the ball went through several fazes across the pitch he picked the ball from Andy Bennett and burst through a gap to touch down. Shortly after Stan Steele came on for Sean Vasey who on return from a bad injury before Christmas had a great game. The last try for Hawcoat was scored by Andy Bennett after another great move; the final word should have gone to Clitheroe but their scrum half knocked on after he crossed the try line.

The performance was undoubtedly one of the best of the season and with the lads travelling to Clitheroe this coming weekend we all know what is expected of us and them.

Saturday saw Hawcoat a team playing at home for the first time in a few weeks hosting Burnley for the first meeting of the two clubs for some time. Burnley showed up with only 13 players so from the off Hawcoat had the advantage, Adam Grainger (returning from injury) and Dean Lloyd-Roberts offered to make up the numbers for Burnley making the sides even for the kick off. Hawcoat had an abundance of players to choose from including Pete Cargan and Lee Minhinnick returning to the club to play for the first time in a while as well as Lorcan Martindale and Lee (matelot) Wombwell . Making his club debut was Mark Harper.

From the kick off it was evident that Hawcoat were the stronger team within ten minutes after strong forward play and slick hands through the backs Jamie Milligan had run in two tries, showing he is improving with every game he plays. The pack were struggling slightly in the scrum so manager Andy Murray brought on Lee Minhinnick to bolster the front row which paid dividends immediately and the forwards started driving the Burnley scrum backwards taking a couple against the head. Due to lack of successive games the first half was a little disjointed at times although the intent was there to play well it was a little frustrating for the players and with a wealth of players waiting to come on half time was a good chance to put things right.

Mark Harper, Lorcan Martindale, Lee Wombwell, Tom Sheppard, Rob Davies and Nick Johns all came on at half time with Matt Robson ,Steve Macarthur, Jamie Milligan, Ben Woolveridge, going to the Burnley team, Adam Grainger came back to Hawcoat to stand in at scrum half, skipper Jase Trundle came off to allow players to get a game. The second half carried on in the same vain as the first with Hawcoat creating chances almost freely but the final ball letting them down on a few occasions.

Midway through the first half Jase Trundle came back on to replace Adam Grainger at scrum half. The Burnley team for all their endeavour were not creating much to worry Hawcoat but they must be congratulated for their efforts and for traveling with less than a full team which is more than most others have done this season, I am sure with time they will build a strong team to challenge again next season in the league. The final score was 62-0 to Hawcoat the tries being scored by;

The stand out players on the day were Mark Burrows who also stood in as skipper while Jase Trundle was off the pitch (good job mark!!!!), Rick Halfpenny never stopped running, Liam Ducie and the two centres, Andy and Eddie, and the two props Pete and Lee.

There are a few things to work on for next Saturday�s home game but as a whole it was a good performance well done again boys.

The Hawcoat A team travelled to Blackpool expecting a tough encounter to a home side that were so far unbeaten in the league. The team led by skipper Jase Trundle took just fifteen players after work and injury forced a couple of players to pull out.

After arriving a little late due to minibus problems the game kicked off with Hawcoat starting very strongly. Adam Corrie running the ball back some twenty metres from the kick off before Blackpool got a tackle in, the rucking by the forwards was excellent, they immediately secured the ball Steve Macarthur spinning the ball out to the skipper (playing in an unusual role at fly half), who then released the backs to run at Blackpool. Jamie Milligan received the ball out on the wing to cross over for his first try of the season. From the kick off Hawcoat had their tails up and were driving in hard at the Blackpool side making ferocious tackles all over the pitch again the counter rucking from the forwards securing valuable turn over ball, After a couple of hard drives at the Blackpool line Pete Steele was held up just short Ryan Brown found his hands on the ball and touched down for the second try.

The next ten minutes or so was again all Hawcoat, lots of passing and interplay between back and forwards with excellent support all round, this produced the third try of the game after strong running from Liam Ducie and Rick Halfpenny through the midfield supported by the strong Tom Dodson and Matt Robson who seem to impress and improve with every game the ball was passed through hands very quickly for the reliable Andy Bennett to score his first try of the game. Shortly before the half time break Eddie Aiken seemed to hand off most of the Blackpool team before running in to touch down from what seemed around fifty metres out from their try line. The half ended 36-0 To Hawcoat Park.

The second half for some reason began a little shakily for Hawcoat , Blackpool in the first five or ten minutes coming close to scoring on two occasions, but for some good strong tackling in defence they should have scored. This woke up Hawcoat and after some very good running from the backs and forwards got to within fifteen metres of the Blackpool line, Blackpool were penalised for hands in the ruck, Steve McArthur took a quick tap passed to Tom Dodson Who ran in unmolested to touch down for his first try of the game. This seemed to drop the heads of the Blackpool players although they continued to put up some resistance the result after Tom�s Try was never in doubt, Yet again after good counter rucking and forward play Nick johns, Liam Ducie and Rick Halfpenny lining up with the backs to charge the ball forward, Jase Trundle took the ball on and gained twenty metres before off loading to Andy Bennett who touched down to round off a great move. Nick Johns again with the marauding back row then rounded off another good pattern of play running in from fifteen metres to score, Eddie Aiken then finished off the game with his hat trick try right at the death of the game.

This was a great performance by the lads who never stopped running at Blackpool all day; the commitment was awesome from every player on the pitch. Thanks go to Liam and Rick who played very well we hope to see you in the team again.

My personal thanks go to the team as a whole after no game for five weeks to play the way you did was great there was too many impressive performances to single any player out. Well done boys.

Saturday saw Hawcoat Park A team take on Garstang in the first return fixture of the season. A warm up injury saw Steve Morrison move from the back row into the centre to partner Andy Bennett and returning player Andy Kent step into the back row. From the first whistle Garstang were on the offensive putting Hawcoat under tremendous pressure, their pack was strong and making big gains into Hawcoat territory, the defence was equally as strong from Hawcoat and kept Garstang at bay. After about ten minutes Garstang took the lead with a well struck penalty, this seemed to lift Hawcoat and their game started to improve, Mark Burrows began to make darting runs from the back of the scrums and rucks bringing the whole back row into play and this started to combine with the backs Hawcoat started to play in the manner to which they have become accustomed. Steve Morrison was also taking the Garstang forwards on and was making some crunching tackles including one on one of their centres which almost made the ground shake. In one of their best first half moments Hawcoat threw the ball wide to the backs and with some slick quick passing Gaz Dewey dived in at the corner to score, a well worked try after a slow start to the game. Almost at the end of the half Hawcoat then drove for the line with Mark Burrows almost (according to the ref) touching down. Before the half ended Eddy Aiken came on to replace Steve Morrison for a spell 5-3 to Hawcoat Park at half time.

The second half was a different story. There was some pressure from Garstang which was held up by the combined work of the forwards and the backs in the first five minutes or so, then Hawcoat flicked a hidden switch and seemed to slip up through a gear or two. The forwards, minus skipper Jase Trundle with a slight reoccurrence to a shoulder problem, replaced by Steve Morrison and the backs started moving the ball well, Eddy and Andy combining as well as ever to get breaks through the Garstang lines. The combination in the half backs of Steve McArthur and Mike Winfield was also clicking into gear supplying great ball for the team to work with. Fifteen minutes into the half after slick passing Lorcan Martindale appeared between the centre and Ben Woolveridge Lorcan supplying the pass to put Ben over for the first of his eventual HAT TRICK after returning from first team duties last week. All three of Bens tries had the hand of Lorcan involved somewhere which he wouldn�t let anyone forget! By this point in the match Garstang were tiring somewhat but never gave up trying to put Hawcoat under pressure where ever they could. The Final whistle came with Hawcoat winning 27-3.

The game was a classic, two different halves, bad and good, this was evident by the self criticism in the changing room after the game the players were giving themselves. But to win when we have a bad day is just as welcome as a world beating performance and winning. Tom Dodson also played well in the match turning in a strong performance in the loose along with Matt Robson who seems to improve a little with every game, a mention for Adam Corrie as well who steps in to the role of prop when asked to without question to help the team. We have one more game before Christmas lets make it another win to finish the year unbeaten lads, Merry Christmas to all the rugby lads at the club and a happy new year.

Hawcoat park a team got back to winning way�s this Saturday at home with a good display against Preston Grasshoppers. Back in the side after an injury was Jase Trundle as skipper along with returning players Nick Johns, George Hilton, Gaz Dewey and Matt Knagg. Also back from 1st team duty were Steve Macarthur and Steve Slater, Paul Burns also made a welcome appearance at fly half. From the first whistle the team got stuck in and after a couple of minutes were a try to the good after some slick passing through the backs. The first half flew by with some great moves from both backs and forwards although this being only the second game in a five week period there were signs of rustiness creeping into parts of the play. Hawcoat�s back were clearly dominant over their opponents, as ever Eddie Aiken and Andy Bennett charging the ball in from all angles and bringing in both wingers and the full back to create opportunities. The forwards were also on top in the scrums with a formidable front row of Jim Steele, Brownie, and hooker Dave Gallagher, to their credit Preston were trying to disrupt as much of the Hawcoat ball as they could and did on more than one occasion present some problems to the home side at the end of a good first half Hawcoat led 37-0. (Apologies for not naming the try scorers I cant remember in which order they were scored)

The second half was much of the same although Preston still stuck to their game and tried to play some good rugby. Hawcoat should have scored more than 16 points in the second half but mistakes were creeping in to the game and Preston was defending stoutly. Near the end of the match Preston were awarded a penalty try for repeated infringements on their own line. The final score was 53-7 to Hawcoat Park.

This was a good display from the lads although some of the mistakes shouldn�t have occurred there are things to improve for next Saturday when Garstang arrive to play the return fixture from the second game of the season well done guys!

A gallant Hawcoat park team Played Millom in a friendly at home on Saturday, narrowly losing out in the end by a converted try.

The game started well with Hawcoat scoring inside 10 minutes when Andy Bennett kicked through then chased the ball down to score under the post�s, the try converted Hawcoat took an early lead to the surprise of Millom .However they hit back almost straight away in the corner the game was pretty hard going for all concerned as the A Team have not played for the previous two weeks due to cancellations from weather and teams disappearing from the league!!!!. Gaz Jesson came off in the first half after aggravating his groin Rob Davies replacing him for a spell, but as the game wore on a few knocks and niggles began to surface through the team. Andy Bennett was another along with Jamie Milligan the first half ended with Muzzer encouraging the team in his usual accustomed way!! .The second half proved a lot better for Hawcoat with a massive display from debut hooker Tom Dodson playing very very well Mark Burrows was also having a great game under lots of pressure Steve Morrison was another Kev (The Sarge) Wright marshalling and encouraging all over the pitch. Another debut player Mat Robson was also making big inroads into the Millom team. Even with two more tries for Hawcoat in the second half until the last few minutes they were only trailing Millom by two points. Sadly errors cost you games and today this was the case but the lads can be proud of a good performance as they played a Millom side boasting more than 70% of their first team.

Let�s get the show back on the road for the next home game and well done to Tom Dodson for being voted Man of the Match!!

A lovely sunny day was the setting for the top table clash between Hawcoat Park A and Aspull in Barrow.

The game started and barely a breath had been taken when the ball was gathered up by Hawcoat�s forwards, The ball was then released to the fly half Sean �beefy� Balfour who stepped through the Aspull defence and set off head long to the try line being stopped just short, he off loaded to Mr dependable Bennett who dotted down for the opening score � barely thirty seconds gone!!!- . For the next ten minutes or so Hawcoat had the better of the game, then Aspull broke through on the wing and should have scored but for Gaz Jesson and Mark Burrows bundling out the Aspull player in the in goal area to stop the score.

Shortly after this Mark Petcher came off with a dislocated finger which manager Andy Murray took great delight in relocating, This was then followed by Aspull scoring their first try of the game after a spell of pressure. Shortly after Beefy then added to Hawcoat�s score with a well taken penalty, Hawcoat then piled on more pressure both forwards and backs combining well to eventually force a gap for Dependable Bennett�s partner, Eddie �battering ram �Aiken to score himself to put Hawcoat Park in a deserving half time lead 15-7.

The second half saw Aspull start well pressuring Hawcoat at every opportunity eventually being awarded a somewhat dubious penalty, putting the score at 15-10 to Hawcoat. The game ebbed and flowed for a time with neither side making inroads until Aspull scored a try levelling the scores with a conversion to come, this being missed left the score at 15-15.

The game then became a battle of the forwards, the Hawcoat backs not really seeing any ball although there were some late surging runs by, you guessed it, Eddie and Andy the gruesome twosome always at the heart of everything good about the A team.

A late penalty missed meant that full time left the honours even. The A team never once stopped giving 100% out on the pitch a special mention to Mark Burrows and Steve Morrison who played a massive game and had a lot of influence on the match . I have thoroughly enjoyed A team rugby so far this season and this is down to a very good group of players who do everything out there for each other because of a massive desire to win - long may this continue!!.

Hawcoat park hit the road this week looking for a fourth win and an improved performance on last week�s close game, Skipper Jase Trundle set out what he wanted the team to do before the game and the players didn�t disappoint.

The game got underway and from Hawcoats point of view was a bit scrappy to begin with then the nerves settled with ball being sprayed out to the back line for them to run at Colne & Nelson. Strong running from Andy Bennett Eddie Aiken and Matt Boyle putting the home side under pressure, the ball went from one side of the pitch to the other From the resulting ruck Jase Trundle put a high kick up and chased through the, Colne fullback missing the catch The skipper chipped the ball on and scored the first try of the game. Straight away Colne came back at Hawcoat and broke through to score under the post�s to take the lead with a converted try. Hawcoat then settled down and began to make inroads after yet more great running from the two centres and great support from the forwards a break through from Andy Bennett put the ball in to Martin Kennedy�s hands for him to score in the corner. After the kick off the back and forwards combined together to provide the best support play they have shown all season everywhere they turned the was a Hawcoat player to take an offload Pete Steele doing tremendous work in the loose pinching ball and making big hit�s Paul Edgely making surging runs at the home side Ian Hopkinson was also proving to be a big headache for the Colne defence. The only area the team were coming second best in was the scrummaging as the Colne pack were bigger. Two more tries in the first half one from Andy Bennett who is proving to be a huge asset for the team saw Hawcoat leading at the break 20-7. The second half was as good as the first and Colne seemed to raise their game a little coming at Hawcoat from the off Mark Petcher Putting in huge tackles as well as Ryan Brown. Even with Hawcoat playing up hill this didn�t stop the back line running hard all the time Jonny Burrows was getting great ball from the ruck to Gaz Jesson who was having a very steady calming influence, always releasing the ball at the right time and following a great move across the pitch gaining 40 or so meters the ball was whipped out for Eddie Aiken to run hard at Colne - Jase Trundle was on hand to score the try .

Colne still did not give up and then came back at Hawcoat to score another try in the corner after sustained pressure after this was converted it made the score 27-14 to Hawcoat . Shortly after Jase Trundle came off having hurt his neck again Pete Steele moved in to prop and Ryan Brown to hooker . Hawcoat park then turned on their style and out played Colne The forwards and backs were immense more tries were to follow including another for Colne the final whistle went the score 37-19 to Hawcoat Park, It is hard to pick out any outstanding player as every one of the team played well, Neil Barrowman again a stalwart in the scrum the centre partnership of Andy and Eddie is firing on all cylinders, as a group of players they are proving to be a very good team who enjoy playing with and for each other long may this continue.

Prior to the game at home the changes in the side had been ringing round already, With a few players unavailable there were players playing out of position from the start this was to be no picnic for the a team.

Skipper Jase Trundle was playing at hooker with Neil Barrowman joining the team at prop Adam Corrie being the other prop. M Boyle was in on the wing in his second game for the team and new comer Jamie Milligan stepping into the fullback role in his first appearance for the team.

The game started a bit slowly then gathered momentum as the Hawcoat backs took the game to Chorley, Again Andy Bennett and Eddie Aiken using their speed and size to make breaks where ever they could and get the game moving. A penalty saw Chorley take a 3-0 lead early on. Almost straight away Hawcoat hit back with an Eddie Aiken try after some good work by the forwards and Steve Macarthur getting quick ball to the returning fly half Steve Rowlandson who in turn fed the ball on to the centres with Eddie Aiken scoring a try which was converted by the skipper. A head injury saw �Rolo� leave the field then subsequently go off to hospital with suspected concussion So in stepped Martin Heywood to the fly half spot and then leave the field not long after with an injury Andy Bennett then stepped into the fly half spot and Rob Davies came on at centre. The rest of the first half then went from one end to the other, Half time the score was 12-13 in Chorley�s favour.

More positional changes occurred in the Hawcoat team with Jase Trundle moving to fullback and Rich Dalton coming on to hook. The second half carried on much like the first with both teams making determined attacks and being thwarted at the crucial moment but as the half moved along Hawcoat gained a slight edge with Dean Lloyd-Roberts going over on the wing after sustained pressure from the forwards and very slick handling in the back line, With the conversion missed it gave the home side a slender lead, the lead was extended with a well taken penalty by the increasingly dependable Andy Bennett.

The game finished 20-13 to Hawcoat, it was a hard won victory and praise must be given to Chorley who time and time again threw all they had at the home team. For Hawcoat park this is three wins out of three in the league for a team that are getting better, still with things to build on at training they can all be proud of themselves.