Match Reports

The league champions Keswick were the visitors to Hawcoat Park for both the last game of the season and the last time in the name of BAE Barrow RUFC for the maroon and whites.

Determined to remain unbeaten throughout the season, as to be expected, Keswick hit the ground running and put the home defence under pressure, after going close on a couple of occasions skipper John Hine slotted over a penalty goal.

The depleted BAE team, a mix predominantly of the young, but with a few key experienced players showed good determination to have a sustained spell of play in the Keswick half. Veteran Mark Fitzgerald, starting his first 1^st team game, was showing up well and went close a couple of times. Midway through the half BAE took the lead, the strong running Lee Edwards slipped a neat short ball to Mattie Sayle who waltzed his way through under the posts. Mark Fitzgerald slotted over the conversion, 7 � 3.

Although holding our own up front, as expected Keswick were very slick and pacey in the three quarters and it came as no surprise when centre Mark Ireland had the speed to cut through, the conversion was missed, 7 � 8. Next came a rather controversial moment, the Keswick winger chipped over the oncoming BAE defender 30 metres out. The ball bounced dead before contact was made with the Keswick player. To the surprise of both BAE and Kendal followers a penalty try was awarded under the sticks, 7 � 15. A further penalty goal and brilliant individual try from Keswick skipper Hine followed before half time 7 � 25.

Particularly up front BAE matched Keswick for long periods in the second half and had spells pressing hard close to the Keswick line. Using their pace in all positions in the backs Keswick scored a couple of long distance trys in the second half to give a final score 7 � 36.

The mainly young BAE showed up very well and worked hard against a good Keswick side. Both sides agreed to playing rolling replacements, and during the game six more young lads came on, Peter Steele, Mark Hanley, Lorcan Martindale, Adam Grainger, Tony Irvine and Danny Moyes and all played well.

However, as they have all season, second row Callum Ramsay and prop Brad Morrow had storming games, Callum is superb in the line out and his general game in the loose is really coming on. Brad is a great scrummager and once again his work rate is top notch. They were well supported by a pack containing Messrs. Clark, Knagg, Edgley, Lightfoot ,

Kent

and Steele.

The three quarters worked hard to contain a very good unit, with Mark Fitzgerald controlling his troops from the back and Lee Edwards running hard in the heart of the opposition. Centres Steve Slater and Matt Sayle grafted hard

All,
My congratulations to Billy White and all the guys for their efforts at Windermere.
It looks like they enjoyed themselves.
Shame I couldn't have been part of it but I was thinking of them.
Best Regards,
Dizzy

Hawcoat Park Rugby Club�s over 35 veterans playing under the name �Vickers Vets� Reclaimed the Shepherd�s Crook trophy in the Annual Windermere Veteran�s Tournament in an energy sapping tournament on Easter Sunday at Dawes Meadow played in front of a large, appreciative crowd of family and friends..

With two games to play back to back it was always going to be a tough ask but the vets with an average age of around 45 used their wily skills to defeat both opponents.

First up were hosts Windermere and a tough encounter ensued. Defences were on top with former Craven Park favourite Mark Fitzgerald, at Fullback, rolling back the years putting in some crunching tackles. Vickers broke the deadlock just before half time when a quick line-out, illegally taken by the clubs usual referee Ciaran Trainor (who should have known better), was taken on by Colin Niven from half way. He found the back row of Bill White, Steve Slater and Tony Skelton walking up in support for Skelton to bag the try goaled by Niven.

The second half followed a similar pattern but eventually the superior handling and running of middle backs John Howard, Paul Burns and Ian France began to make holes in the home defence, Burns bagging two tries with Niven adding the extras.

In the final 5 minutes the forwards got on top with Bill White forcing his way over from a quick tap penalty and John Howard Side stepping his way over.

After a 5 minute breather Vickers then faced touring side Burton who rather worryingly had to make their team up with a number of their U21 team who were also touring but again the Veterans used all there skills to keep the game tight and only open the game up at the right time.

The Front five of Ray Sayle, Mike Beach , Grant Willets, Jim Steele and Martin Murray were outstanding as they won enough ball for Mike Garnett, Matthew Williamson and Brian Charnley, in vintage chipping mode, to peg their opponents back with some astute kicking.

Vickers scored in the last few minutes of the fist half with a text book catch in the line by Steve Slater followed by an unstoppable drive from 10M out, Steele getting the touchdown.

With tiredness, lack of fitness and old age sapping their strength Vickers rotated their subs Ray Mowatt and Steve Miles to good effect and just managed to hold on for victory.

Skipper Bill White, captaining his first ever team in a 30 year career gratefully received the trophy in the clubhouse followed by some much needed liquid refreshment and reminiscing with the host club and Burton.

After a 62 � 0 victory earlier in the season at home to Aspatria Seconds, the Eagles, a BAE team already depleted with injuries and non availabilities knew they were heading for �pay back time� when learning the powerful Aspatria 1st team did not have a game.

Although up against a big pack the BAE forwards made a good start and with some good short drives had the best of the opening exchanges but could not get over the line with the Aspatria defence holding strong.

Aspatria broke out and for the first time their full back showed he was a pacey exclusive runner before Ricky Gadsdon put in a good tackle to bring him down.

Soon after the Aspatria fly half put over a penalty goal from 35 metres out and slowly got on top in the remainder of the half with three converted trys, half time 24 � 0 to the home side.

A further two big Aspatria forwards came on at half time and with their South African scrum half controlling matters the second half followed a similar pattern. The work rate of the young BAE side was excellent as they worked hard to keep Aspatria at bay. Winger Gareth Dewey showed the way with his cover tackling but Aspatria still managed 3 further trys, one of which was converted.

The BAE spirit was uplifted in the last 5 minutes when, still pounding away at the Aspatria line, skipper Dave Gallagher who had once again led his young side by example all game forced his way over from close range. From wide out Mike Winfield who had kicked well all game managed to boot the conversion. Final score 41 � 7.

Everyone of the BAE players can feel proud of their performance in defeat. Peter Steele, son of legend Jim, took the players Man of the Match but not far behind were Steve Slater and Danny White, both preferring to play in the pack but sharing the centre position to help out the backs and also young prop Jason Priss who never took a backward step all game with his strong runs. In the backs Matt Burrows and Andy Bennett showed some good running with limited ball.

The start of this game was delayed because of a traffic accident and as a consequence a game of two distinct halves was produced. Resplendent in their new kit, sponsored by Studsvik, BAE�s opening strategy was to catch Cockermouth cold and hit them with everything. However openings were hard to find for the Cockermouth defence and they coped easily with the predictable BAE offence. After 10 minutes Mike Winfield did provide the break through, his quickly taken tap penalty resulted in the supporting Wayne Jones crashing over near the posts. From the restart, Cockermouth winning plenty of ball, began to take control. BAE defence struggled to contain them frequently giving away penalties to stall their attacking movements. A catch and drive from a lineout gave veteran Jeff Peet a try in the corner. A second quickly followed when Luke Reeson, deep in his own half, snatched up a loose BAE pass to sprint away to exchange passes inside before running under the posts. This gave Cockermouth a deserved 7-12 lead at the interval.

From the restart things could not have gone better for BAE, they scored two quick tries that seemed to shatter Cockermouth�s confidence. Neil France linked from fullback to level the score and Danny White, now playing at number 8, peeled away from a maul to touch down. Winfield converted to give BAE a five point lead. Cockermouth never recovered, heads started to drop, injuries and substitutions began to take their toll whilst BAE went from strength to strength. The changes made at the interval were having the desired effect; �Sharky� Wrathall and Andy Bennett injected pace as the three-quarters operated with a little more cohesion. Tries soon followed, trusting in his own judgment Bennett ignored the overlap to force his way over, White then completed the scoring with his second touchdown showing his instincts and awareness of where the try line is.

Hawcoat Park travelled up the coast to face a Netherhall side at the top of there game and second in the league. Right from the kick off the blustery conditions did not do a great deal for the away side getting pinned in there 22 by some superb kicking from the home team stand off. Front row partnership of Bradley Morrow, Andrew Kent and Jason Priss were doing there up most to try to stem attack after attack but with the back line lead by Mike Winfield were being starved of ball that could release the strong running Wayne Jones and Gregg Sykes.

A penalty and a converted try mid way through the first half seemed to spur on Hawcoat park with second row�s Callum Ramsey and Paul Edgley starting to win ball in the line outs. Mike Harrison was beginning to get a little more freedom with the ball in hand and produce some great moves, one of which nearly saw Matt Burrows in at the corner. Full back Neil France was playing well under some very high balls turning defence into attack time and time again, he was amply backed up by Gareth Dewey on the wing.

Towards the end of the half Back row combination of Mike Lightfoot, Dave Gallagher and Steve Slater started making inroads in to the Netherhall 22 and but for some resolute tackling would of scored.

Second half started with skipper Gallagher being replaced by Danny White who produced some great tackling showing the big home team second row a thing or two. Netherhall were in the ascendancy and came away with another two tryst late in the second half and a penalty to boot. Gregg Sykes left the field with a strain to be replaced by Peter Steele who performed well under pressure.

Final score ended 23-0 to Netherhall. Hawcoat park 1st team coach Jason Meadows said � the boys had a bad day at the office by there standard, just one of those days where nothing goes right. A team that hasn�t lost a scrum all season suddenly starting loosing them. The team did stick together and need to lift themselves quickly for the next game�

Hawcoat park 1st team is at home to Cockermouth next week which will not be an easy game as previous encounters this season have been very close.

Making the most of the perfect weather and playing conditions, BAE set off with a real determination to end their losing run and at the same time secure the double against Wigton Wanderers.

The BAE forwards set up a good platform and young Mike Harrison operating in the scrum half berth was very lively with darting runs around the base of the scrum creating space. Fly half Mike Winfield made good use of the ball and brought centres, the strong Wayne Jones and Greg Sykes who always made good ground, into the game. The forwards were supporting well and with good hands trys came at regular intervals through the first half. Firstly through full back Neil France, who came into the line at pace and then through Wayne Jones twice and Mike Winfield before Tim Clark ran with his usual determination to force his way over. Mike Winfield booted 4 conversions to give BAE a healthy 33 � 0 half time lead. Wigton strengthened their team with replacements at half time. The second half was certainly more even and at times the BAE defence had to work very hard to keep the big Wigton pack out. Towards the end young prop Jason Priss capped a fine display showing real strength to crash over fairly wide out. The final score 38 � 0.

Coach Jason Meadows can be justifiably proud of the whole teams performance after suffering a few defeats recently.

Mike Winfield enjoying playing at fly half and receiving good service from Mike Harrison controlled the game and took the players Man of the Match award. However, in the bar the talk was about the performance of the young front row with 18 year old props Jason Priss and Brad Morrow not only dominating the scrums but showing up regularly in the loose with the �old action� style of play. The centre partnership of Wayne Jones and Greg Sykes looks good and will only get better as they develop their understanding.

A word also for referee Ciaran Trainor who controlled the game well with a sensible approach always allowing the game to flow.

The playground pitch at Whitehaven was a little tacky underfoot but it was a perfect day for open rugby. The Whitehaven 2nd Team backs were impressive at Hawcoat Park the week before and sure enough the 1st Team backs were a step up and certainly the best we have faced this season. All game their fly half controlled the game bringing his young pacey backs into the game with a mixture of long passes and set moves.

The BAE cause was not helped when scrum half Steve McArthur had to leave the field with a neck injury resulting in further disruption and back row forward Mike Lightfoot again having to move to centre.

Whitehaven trys came at regular intervals mainly shared by their centres and wingers, but it could have been a lot worse if, for example, skipper Dave Gallagher and winger Gareth Dewey had not pulled off tremendous try saving tackles in the first part of the game. The score line did not do justice to the effort put in by the whole team and replacements. Whitehaven did not have it all their own way in the attacking stakes, for 10 minutes just before half time BAE camped on their line with stalwart Mike Winfield and debutant centre Greg Sykes working hard to move half breaks with winger Matt Burrows showing good determination and going close twice.

Not long before the end Jason Priss scored a consolation try when the ball was moved along the line a couple of times and Jason who had come on as replacement after bravely getting out of his sick bed to travel to crash over.

All the pack worked really hard to match the bigger Whitehaven. Young prop Brad Morrow getting a real rap off his New Zealand man mountain of an opposite number for his technique and performance. Former county U21 hooker Andy Kent worked hard and took a couple of strikes against the head.

It was debutant Greg Sykes who took the players Man of the Match award with his all action display both attacking and for grafting in defence.

In their first home game since the restructuring of the club BAE were given a glimpse of the hard times that lie ahead both on and off the pitch. This was a strange game that seemed to contradict any pre-match conceptions of how the game would progress. The pitch was in perfect condition with a strong, chilling wind blowing down the length of the field. This I assumed would be of considerable advantage but poor use of the boot meant both teams performed better when facing the wind.

Playing with the elements in the first half and in blue rather than their traditional maroon and white hoops, (a choice of colour that would probably reflected the mood in the changing room after the match), BAE struggled to contain a free running Greengarth side. Visiting fullback Madden was always alert for attacking opportunity�s, he created the openings for three exciting touchdowns all scored in similar fashion. Good possession from the lineout saw Madden link and exchange passes inside with centre Magoogan before sending wingman Sparshot away for the first try. Minutes later he was there again this time on the left wing. Aided by half hearted arm tackling he burst through to put Murphy over in the corner. Now settled, Greengarth played with greater confidence and moved the ball wide whenever possible. Sure enough as half time approached in came the ubiquitous Madden with a show and go to run on score himself. Giving Greengarth a well-deserved 0-15 lead and a possible rout beckoning in the second half.

The obligatory huddle took place during the interval, in it words were spoken and opinions exchanged as to why things were going so badly wrong. The second half started with a dreadful kick-off that didn�t go ten metres, the spectators feared the worst but BAE were not shot yet .A scrum against the head triggered off a siege on the Greengarth line.that seemed to last the rest of the game. The introduction at scrumhalf of Hilton certainly brought more urgency to the home side. A score looked certain for BAE as Bennett twisted and rolled his way to the line, though his head and shoulders crossed the line he was unable to ground the ball. Then Lightfoot barged his way over but with so many players in attendance the referee was unable to see if the ball was grounded. Geengarth�s stubborn defence held as BAE tried to bludgeon their way over time and again. Lacking any guile to break down the opposition they eventually became predictable in their efforts .The threequarters were just frustrated witnesses to the process. Greengarth did crack towards the end; their scrum was driven back from five metres out allowing No8 Clark to drop on the ball as the line was crossed. This was only of consolation value for there too little time left to effect the result, which gave Greengarth the double over their lacklustre opponents. Despite BAE�s poor performance lock Callum Ramsey and Sam Hilton stood out on the day

BAE travelled to Carlisle to play Creighton and just as for the reverse fixture at Hawcoat Park at the start of the season were really stretched through non availability of backs. This was made worse with both selected centres having to cry off.

Nevertheless the young side was up for the difficult task and was aware Creighton are a strong side with pacey three quarters.

Creighton started strongly and during the first 20 minutes their full back accurately slotted over two penalty goals.

BAE came back and during the first spell of sustained pressure in the Creighton half scored a try. Steve McArthur quickly tapped a penalty and made good ground before passing to No. 8 Tim Clark who showed good strength and determination to force his way through tackles to score in the corner.

As to be expected Creighton came back and before half time scored two unconverted trys both really through good handling in their backs. The first when their winger squeezed in at the corner, the second when good defence initially kept the move out but their back row was quickly up in support to force his way over from close range.

Creighton extended their lead with an early penalty and a further penalty mid way through the second half. However the young BAE were giving as good as they got and had periods of the half when they camped in the Creighton 22 but could not force their way over for a try, at times through very good Creighton defence and once or twice through the wrong option. There was time just before the end for BAE to score the only try in the second half. The forwards made good ground with skipper Dave Gallagher leading from the front as he did all game. Fly half Mike Harrison moved the ball through good hands by make shift centres (normally forwards) Steve Slater and Mike Lightfoot out to winger Gareth Dewey who showed good pace to touchdown. Final score 22 � 10.

Broken down it was 2 trys each but Creighton had a good kicker who booted 4 penalty goals, with all the cry offs BAE had no recognized goal kicker.

Two young lads Joe Fallon at scrum half and Matt Burrows on the wing made their 1st Team debuts and neither looked out of place and will hopefully continue to develop.

The pack again played well inspired by skipper Gallagher with the young front row of Jason Priss, Andy Kent on his return from injury and Brad Morrow all working hard. Steve Slater took the players Man of the Match after playing the second row then centre. In the backs Ricky Gadson had a solid second half covering at full back, and stand in centre Steve McArthur worked hard before retiring injured.

BAE were rusty after the journey and Workington certainly started the best team. Most of the play was in the BAE half and after getting on the wrong side of the ref�s penalty count it came as no surprise that the Workington fly half booted over two penalty goals.

With young Callum Ramsay and Steve Slater winning some great line out ball against bigger opponents we slowly got back into the game and 30 minutes into the half scored a try. Centre Wayne Jones made some good ground down the right hand side, the ball was recycled and moved to the left, skipper Dave Gallagher drew the cover and slipped a pass to Tim Clark to romp over. This was the last Jones was to play in the game as he strained his hamstring in his run. There was just time left in the half for Workington to boot another penalty 9 � 5 to the home side at half time.

Workington made four changes at half time and really beefed up their pack. The fresh faces brought a real urgency to the Workington play and the BAE lads had to really play as a team and show good determination in defence to keep them out.

Midway through the half sustained Workington pressure did result in two trys in quick succession, the first when their strong running winger touched down wide out, the second when a back row cut inside to score under the posts, this try was converted.

Heads could have very easily dropped at 21 � 5 down. Far from it though we had our best spell towards the end of the game. This was summed up by scrum half Steve McArthur who individually showed great determination to charge down a clearance kick and then was pulled back by the home full back as he was about to win the chase to the loose ball in the dead ball area. The ref rightly awarded a penalty try which stylish centre Mike Winfield converted 21 � 12.

We came right back and �camped on� the Workington line for a 5 minute spell but with solid defence could just not force our way over. That was until skipper Dave Gallagher playing his usual game leading from the front managed to force his way over from close range. Unfortunately the ref was the only one who was not in a position to confirm the try (the Workington lads confirmed it was a fair touch down after the game).

Disaster struck at the resulting 5 metre scrum. The ball went lose as we attempted to move the ball, the Workington winger kicked on and then scooped up the ball to score a 90 metre try under out posts, which was converted. Final score 28 � 12.

A really disappointment, this was like a 14 point try to the home side when we should have scored by the posts ourselves and Workington go the full length of the field to score themselves.

Workington Zebras always are a tough test in the forwards and the BAE young pack really stood up to the test with Callum Ramsay on his 18th birthday in particular putting in a Man of the Match performance, his line out work is superb for such a young man. Jason Priss and Brad Morrow did not take a backward step in the front row, and former skipper Steve Slater showed his fitness level covering every blade of the big Workington pitch.

In the backs winger Andy Bennett made good ground when in possession and Gareth Jesson was solid at full back before moving into the centre.

The effort went in from all the BAE team and 28 � 12 was certainly not a fair reflection of the game.

After a few days very heavy rain, as expected the pitch was a little tacky but still good for rugby. Testament to the efforts of Andrew our grounds man, but equally the team of volunteers under the new club set up led by Eddie France and Nobby Clarke.

From the kick off we put Egremont under pressure and early into the game full back Neil France slotted over a penalty goal and this really set the pattern for the game. Our young pack won good ball and fly half Mike Harrison showed good hands throughout bringing his �minder� centre Wayne Jones and Gareth Jesson into the game to make ground before stretching the ball out wide. Winger Andy Bennett scored the first two trys, the first in the corner and the second a good individual effort when he kicked through a couple of times to score under the posts. Skipper Dave Gallagher, covering for the injured Andy Kent, at hooker was as usual leading from the front and touched down himself before half time.

Young fly half Mike Harrison was at the heart of everything that was good about our play in the second half. He made two long range clean breaks one producing a try for centre Gareth Jesson with a neat inside pass, the other with Wayne Jones tackled just short. Soon after a clever short pass allowed the strong running Jones to touch down under the posts. Skipper Gallagher collected the other try when the game was stretched from side to side to create space for him.

As to be expected from an Egremont side they never threw in the towel at any stage and during the second half deservedly scored two trys and a penalty goal Also our full back Neil France had to pull off three last ditch try saving tackles during the game.

Final score 39 � 13 in a game thoroughly enjoyed by all the home supporters. Most pleasing was the performance in the pack with two props Jason Priss and Brad Morrow, second row Callum Ramsay and back rows Mike Lightfoot and Danny White really looking the business. Of course, young packs need experienced support and this certainly came from Messrs. Gallagher, Slater and Clark.

Diminutive fly half Mike Harrison had one of his best games for the club as he continues his development and certainly looks to be appreciating having big Wayne Jones in the centre as his minder.

Steve McArthur slotting in at Scrum half for another injured, 18 year Sam Hilton, showed what a good player he is always encouraging and moving the ball well. It was good to see winger Andy Bennett seeing the ball to collect a brace of trys. All in all a good team performance from all.

It was a perfect winter�s day for rugby, cold but with no wind or rain. Despite all the recent rain Hawcoat Park was firm and asking to be played rugby on.

Millom were well organized and certainly started the strongest with their pack working hard to get on top, on a couple of occasions they went close to scoring but last ditch defence from BAE just managed to keep them out. It came as no surprise however when they took the lead 15 minutes into the game. From broken play 40 metres out centre Ricky Kershaw set off on a typical powerful burst and leaving defenders in his wake scored, after a weaving run, the conversion was missed.

From mid way in the half BAE slowly got into the game and had a spell of inserted pressure when a couple of clear charges went begging. When �camped� on the Millom line good defence by the visitors kept us at bay. Just before half time we got back on level terms when the ball was moved out wide well and winger Andy Bennett showed good strength to squeeze in at the corner, again the conversion was missed. Half time 5 � 5.

Into the second half Millom perhaps surprisingly continued to stick with their �10 man� rugby strategy, whereas on occasions in the tight game BAE took the lead when the ball was stretched both ways to eventually get an overlap position with centre Wayne Jones slipping the try scoring pass to the delighted Gareth Dewey on the wing.

As to be expected Millom hit back determined to get back into the game. After four scrums close to the BAE line and despite sterling defence work from young Brad Morrow and stalwart Steve Slater in particular a Millom forward forced his way over from close range.

BAE certainly had the best of the final exchanges and could easily have snatched victory. With almost the last kick of the game full back Neil France hit the cross bar with a 35 metre penalty goal attempt which bounced back. Unbelievably he had done the same thing in the first half.

The BAE team particularly the young lads showed real good determination to stand up to the confident and powerful Millom team. Prop Brad Morrow continues to show great potential both in the scrum and in his work rate in the loose. It was good to see both wingers Andy Bennett and Gareth Dewey collecting the trys and Dexy, Dean Lloyd Roberts, showed good touches in his last game as a single man. Best wishes to both him and Anna on their wedding next week.

BAE travelled to top of the table Keswick on Saturday in what was expected to be a hard fought game, and BAE were not disappointed.

BAE kicked off the game in windy wet conditions playing against the wind. Right from the off, Keswick�s speedy back division were at BAE and were awarded a penalty early on in the game which the Keswick Stand off dually slotted between the uprights bringing the score to 3-0. This seemed to give BAE the lift with the pack lead by captain Dave Gallagher taking complete control of the forward dominated game.

Young props Bradley Morrow and Jason Priss were taking the game to the Keswick pack pushing them back time and time again at a great rate of knots. Amply backed up by Chris Thompson and Paul Edgley, the forwards didn�t let there foot of the peddle. It wasn�t long before all the pressure paid dividends with back row combination of Danny White and Dean Lloyd Roberts forcing the rampaging Tim Clarke over the line for a try. A missed conversion into the wind brought the score to 3-5 to BAE.

Sam Hilton at scrum half was having one of his best games for the club but with poor weather condition Mike Winfield very rarely saw the ball. Centre partnership of Mike Lightfoot and Steve McArthur, both of whom were playing out of position, had to be on song bring a holt to some strong running by the Keswick backs.

Kicks over the top by Keswick were dealt with by Neil France who was covered time and time again by wing men Andy Bennett and Gareth Dewey. It wasn�t long before a one off foray by Keswick lead to a penalty which was taken bringing the half time score to 6-5 to Keswick.

Second half kicked off as the first had finished with BAE playing some great rugby and should have taken the lead again but for a poor referee decision. Sam Hilton broke through the Keswick defensive line and popped a great pass off the Dean Lloyd Roberts, Roberts was hauled down a couple of feet short. Priss drove forward to clear the ruck only to be adjudged to of gone over the top to the complete dismay of the young prop.

Keswick were opting for the kick over the top ball to clear there line and from one of these the home side broke through a sloppy tackle to score an unconverted try bring the score line to 11-5.

BAE made changes with Steve Slater coming on along with first team debutant Paul Wrathall with the later pulling off some outstanding tackling during his first appearance for the first team. Time and time again BAE took the game to Keswick and but for a couple of dropped balls would of surely had the game won. Richard Gadsden came into the field of play but couldn�t stop one final try for Keswick bringing the final score to 16-5 to the home team.

Sam Hilton took man of the match but the overall display was superb, and if the team continues to show such grit and determination then the future looks bright for the Hawcoat Lane club.

Three weeks after our narrow League victory we travelled again to Cockermouth this time in the 4th Round of the Junior Vase Cup.

The game was played on a heavy pitch in poor conditions very wet and windy and at times almost pitch black. Through injuries and unavailability�s we were missing quite a few players from the previous weeks resounding home win including the full front row however making good use of the wind we started well putting Cockermouth on the back foot. After ten minutes we took the lead ,fly half Mike Harrison chipped over the defence and although he was impeded in his attempt to collect his own kick back row Danny White was quick to react and dive on the ball over the line. Mike Winfield�s conversion was narrowly wide.

The bigger Cockermouth pack were more experienced and started to get on top through their close support play up front. Mid way through the half they booted a penalty goal and just before half time they took the lead when again putting us under real pressure with short forward drives resulting in their back row forcing his way over in the corner from close range. The conversion was missed half time 8-5.

With the wind advantage the home side camped in our half for almost all the second half. It was only a great team defensive effort that kept them out for so long. Time and again we managed to keep them out very close to our own line with Steve Slater and young Danny White catching the eye along with his former Colt team mate from last year prop Jason Priss. Two further Cockermouth forward drive trys did come as we tired towards the end both conversions were missed.

There was time for us to finish with a flourish and a fine try after managing to break away into the Cockermouth half. Dean Lloyd Roberts made a great drive into the heart of their defence, the ball was moved out wide one way and then back again really stretching the home defence before good hands from young Mike Lightfoot allowed enough space for his mate Danny White to force his way over for his and our second try. Final score 18-10.

Making his first start in the back row Danny White was the stand out player earning the man of the match from all the players with a powerful game against bigger opposition. It was great to see Peter Steele come on as a replacement to make his debut on a day when his Dad the evergreen Jimmy was helping out his mates once again by playing the full game at prop. Not only that Peter�s girlfriend Gemma was once again working very hard for the team in her vital Physio role.

In summary Cockermouth with their bigger forwards played the conditions better but Skipper Dave Gallagher can be proud of the efforts of the much changed team who gave their all. Perhaps it will be a Twickenham trip next year!

Aspatria Eagles (2nd team) travelled to Hawcoat Park for a Cumbria League game on a day when the windy conditions were not really suitable for expansive rugby. A minute silence was held before the kick off for Chris Massey the very popular former player who had tragically lost his life in a work accident during the week. The home side were just too strong for the very game Aspatria side who despite always being on the back foot worked extremely hard and the final score of 62-0 certainly did not reflect the solid endeavours put in by the Aspatria lads.

Whilst the success was built on a solid platform up front with Paul Edgley securing some great line out ball and 18 year old prop Brad Morrow and the back row showing up well in the loose. The ball was well used in the threes and the spectators witnessed a few of the best running and support play trys for some time. Young Mike Harrison was showing great hands from the fly half berth and was working very well with his centres the strong running Wayne Jones and elusive Mike Winfield. Occasionally individuals tried to do that little bit too much but all in all the general team work and support play when breaks were made was good to watch. Trys came a regular intervals with the half time score 27- 0.

Try scorers were Skipper Dave Gallagher (2) Tim Clark (2) Mike Winfield (2) all of whom knew they would have to buy a jug of beer for the lads if they had scored a hat trick! Full back Neil France Winger Gareth Dewey Wayne Jones and Steve McArthur. Centre Mike Winfield booted 6 conversions.

Wayne Jones took the players man of the match however it was a good team performance all round with young Sam Hilton continuing to impress week on week in the scrum half berth. Rugby is a squad game these days so also just a word for good club lads Steve McArthur, Dean Lloyd � Roberts, vice captain Neil Barrowman and Ross Troughton, who all started from the bench this week but certainly all played their part when coming on the pitch.�

With the wind advantage Cockermouth certainly started strongly and put us under a lot of pressure. Although we were playing as if "we still had the bus in our legs" our defence was very good as the lads worked hard for each other to keep Cockermouth out. Steve Slater and Wayne Jones in particular putting in two timely big individual hits.

It was really 25 minutes into the game before we started getting a foothold. When we got some sustained possession we moved the ball wide well and stretched Cockermouth on a couple of occasions, making good ground. From this pressure right on half time Mike Harrison showed great hands to put the strong running Wayne Jones under the posts only to realise the referee had not allowed any advantage after giving us a penalty. Mike Winfield slotted over the 30 metre penalty goal to give us a 0 - 3 half time lead.

As in the first half Cockermouth started the second half strongly and with the added advantage of a disappointing penalty count put us under pressure. Fifteen minutes into the half their fly half scored the only try of the game, when he spotted a gap close to the line to force his way over, the conversion was missed.

Frustrated at some of the referees decisions we struggled to make ground. From a rare penalty Mike Winfield shaved the outside of the post from 40 metres and then after this managed to slot over a similar attempt to give us a 6 - 5 lead.

We went close a couple of times and also had to defend well to keep Cockermouth at bay, but managed to hang on to our narrow 6 - 5 victory.

Mike Lightfoot took the players Man of the Match and just beat his opposite award among the Cockermouth lads in the drinking competition. He must have been pushed by Steve Slater on his return from a three week foreign business trip. Mike Winfield coolly put over his two penalty goals and looked on his game throughout.

Taking all factors into consideration this was a good team win on the road. Cockermouth will be looking for revenge when we travel to them again in the next round of the Junior Cup in a couple of weeks.

It was a perfect day for rugby but it was unfortunately the home side who started the strongest and after five minutes their full back slotted over a near 35 metre penalty goal. Soon after they added a try, when their powerful No. 8 picked up from the scrum, made good on the blind side and drew in the cover before slipping a neat pass to their winger to touch down wide out, 8 - 0 to the home side.

Slowly but surely we started to get on top, with our young line out jumpers Mike Lightfoot and Callum Ramsey winning good ball and the pack scrumming well. Although the remainder of the half was played in the Wigton half through knock on's and some wrong options the only score we could get was a late Mike Winfield penalty goal, 8 - 3 at half time.

The older and bigger Wigton forwards were starting to visibly tire as the half time approached and a pep talk from manager Nobby Clarke highlighted the need to get some width on the ball as we looked lively in the three-quarters.

Five minutes into the half the advice was listened to and good passing allowed full back Neil France the space to run strongly into the line and force his way over, 8 - 8.

Fly half Mike Harrison and centre Mike Winfield were now starting to stretch the Wigton defence with their astute passing and running skills as our pack really were giving their opposite numbers a hard time.

After a spell of forward pressure No. 8 Tim Clark spotted a gap and forced his way over in his normal manner. Soon after the ball was moved well and skipper Dave Gallagher slipped a neat pass out to winger Gareth Dewey to take his try well. Replacement Lee Wombwell then scored a smashing try showing good strength and determination to run hard, beat a few attempted tackles and stretch his long arm out to touch down, Mike Winfield slotted over his first conversion, 25 - 8.

There was just time for fly half Mike Harrison to score a good individual try, he had moved the ball well but this time neatly chipped over the defence, re-gathered his own kick to touch down under the posts, again Mike Winfield slotted over the conversion. We went close a couple more times as we finished very strongly. Final score, a win 32 - 8.

Mike Winfield took the players Man of the Match, but young Sam Hilton (son on former stalwart Alan) really does improve on a game by game basis in the scrum half berth.

All the pack played their part with the likes of Messrs. Slater, Kent and Morrow all doing the graft up front and centre Gareth Jesson making good ground with his strong running. The second half in particular was another strong team performance with the five 18 year old's mixing well with the experienced older members of the squad.

After a couple of disappointing weeks, the lads prepared well for the game, determined to get things back on track. Equally Whitehaven arrived early and looked a confident squad after a good start to their season.

The early exchanges were fairly even, but as Whitehaven got the journey out of their legs they slowly started to look strong, and after 15 minutes it came as no surprise when, after a sustained spell of pressure, they moved the ball out wide and their strong running centre spotted a gap to fall his way over, 0 - 5.

The remainder of the half was close and keenly contested, our young forwards, Callum Ramsay in the line out, Mike Lightfoot and Brad Morrow all showed up well as our pack attempted to get on top. Half time 0 - 5.

We started the second half well and Mike Winfield slotted over a penalty goal to reduce the deficit. The game remained a real tight 'arm wrestle' but was brought to life with one of the best trys we have scored for a while, Dean Lloyd-Roberts made a strong run, fly half Mike Harrison popped a nice short pass to Gareth Jesson, the three-quarters drew their opposite numbers and full back Neil France passed to winger Ross Troughton who ran strong to cut inside and score under the posts, Mike Winfield booted the conversion, 10 - 5.

Soon after we extended our lead following good work by Steve McArthur, the ball was again moved along the backs, Neil France kicked through and managed to touch down himself, 15 - 5.

Just when things looked a bit more comfortable Whitehaven scored an absolute brilliant individual try through a 'flying machine' winger 5 minutes from the end. The home fans were asking just why did Whitehaven not look to get more ball to him during the game?

Whitehaven can return up the coast perhaps feeling a little disappointed not to get something from the game. However, this was one of our best 'team' performances for quite sometime. Every single player young and old was playing for each other and it was certainly appreciated by all the home fans.

Young scrum half Sam Hilton took the Man of the Match award with a usual tenacious display, never taking a backward step. However, there were many others not far behind, 18 year old prop Brad Morrow did well in the scrums and was very busy in the loose. Mike Winfield looked good for his first game of the season, but all in all skipper Dave Gallagher can feel proud of everyone of his squad today.

It was very much a case of after 'the Lord Mayors show' this week following the great win at Egremont. It is not often we are 'nilled' at home and it is not often the opposition score over forty points at Hawcoat Park but that is exactly what Creighton did yesterday, final score - 41!

Creighton were right up for it from the start and with a pack of forwards who combined well together and pacey three-quarters were much too good for us on the day. Trys came at regular intervals and the half time score was 0 - 18.

No excuses but five of the three-quarters who played at Egremont were not available for varying reasons, it is not often you play second row and then the following week centre but that is exactly what stalwart Steve Slater did, his centre partner Dean Lloyd Roberts who was in the back row the week before.

Our pack just did not seem 'fired up' to compete with the Creighton pack although skipper Dave Gallagher did take a 10 minutes rest for a mistimed tackle.

Simon Burns tried hard at scrum half behind a beaten pack and Steve Rollinson, playing his first game of the season, had his usual steady game at full back.

The selectors named a team for the away trip to Egremont which reflected the progression plans, i.e. it was a mix of last years successful Colts team and experienced campaigners who have served the club so well in recent years.

There was a disruption with young Sam Hilton having to cry off with a nasty illness, dependable skipper Dave Gallagher moving from the back row to fill in.

The bigger Egremont pack were really fired up from the start and in perfect playing conditions for the first 30 minutes put us under real pressure. Somehow we managed to keep them out and the team spirit to cover and make tackles for each other really was showing through.

From a rare period in the Egremont half we took the lead, young back row Mike Lightfoot making his first team debut and as he did all game put the Egremont backs under pressure from an Egremont scrum win. Their full back dropped the ball over the line and Mike pounced on the loose ball to score a debut try. Skipper Gallagher neatly slotted over the conversion, 0 - 7.

The second half was totally different, possibly the big Egremont pack wilted in the heat but we slowly started to control the game. Our pack were more mobile, Gareth Jesson ran the ball up hard to make ground every time and his partner Greg Bawden looked pacey in space and nearly managed to get over on a couple of occasions. Our forwards camped on their line and 25 minutes into the half we scored a crucial second try, Gareth Jesson was stopped just short of the line but managed to role over and touch down, again Dave Gallagher booted the conversion, 0 - 14.

There was time for Egremont to get a good late try out wide but not enough for them to close the gap further. Final score 14 - 5 to BAE.

This really was a great team performance, summed up by the fact we had a strong bench with Richard Dalton, Matt Knagg and Rick Gadsden but found it difficult to consider changes that may have disrupted the performance. All three did in fact enter the fray and play their part.

Mike Lightfoot on debut took the Man of the Match award for his all action display, but all across the team the lads could be proud of their performance. Four eighteen year olds in the pack and two in the front row is encouraging for the future. Jason Clemence learnt the hard way, collecting a 'shoeing' early on when on the wrong side he bravely carried on well supported by his Colts hooker Brad Morrow and at the other end of the scale Pete Cargan with over 400 1st team games.

Callum Ramsey continues to look the part and again blends well with the experienced stalwart Steve Slater in the second row.

The Cumbria League for season 2007/2008 started with a visit from Workington Steelers (2nd team) who have joined the league this season following the promotion to the league above of Workington Zebras last season.

The early exchange and in fact all the first half had a real first game of the season look about it, with both sides play rather 'rusty' with a lot of mistakes. After 10 minutes we took the lead when No. 8 Tim Clark forced his way over from close range following a strong run from new skipper Dave Gallagher.

Last years colt, the diminutive Mike Harrison, was more and more starting to control the game from fly half and his clever passing created some space out wide with firstly Andy Bennett and full back Neil France touching down. Without Mike Winfield or a recognised kicker non of the trys were converted. Half time 15 - 0.

Workington bounced back early in the second half when from our poor kick option they supported each other well for their rangy winger to score under the posts (15 - 7).

Nerves were settled for the remainder of the game as further trys were scored by Tim Clark (2) to complete his 'jug buying' hat trick, winger Ross Troughton and deservedly Mike Harrison, showing great determination, scored under the posts, Skipper Gallagher taking his turn managed to convert this one for a final score of 27 - 7 to the home side.

Young Mike Harrison deservedly took the Man of the Match award for his creative play, but there was encouraging signs from the Colts players in the team, Sam Hilton at scrum half and Callum Ramsay in the second row and overall an encourage team performance first up.

With so many lads away at Twickenham watching Leicesters disappointing performance it was a patched up 15 (with no replacements) who travelled to Penrith for the quarter final of the Cumbria Shield Cup.

As to be expected Penrith were a big experienced pack of forwards and certainly had the best of the early exchanges, it was only solid defence from BAE that kept them out until 15 minutes into the game, when from close range, their No. 8 forced his way over from a scrum.

Slowly but surely the BAE pack managed to match their counterparts and looked to be more attacking in the backs. The ball was moved to Neil France in the centre, he made good ground with a strong run, the ball was recycled and good forward play resulted in Tim Clark forcing his way over with his usual determination.

Unfortunately Neil France injured his ankle setting up the try and had to leave the field, this was the possible turning point in the game, as for the rest of the game we played 14 men against 15.

Penrith started the second half strongly and again it was only great team work and defence that kept them out. Club captain Dave Gallagher as usual putting in some great tackles and young Adam Grainger at one point picking up a forward twice his size and dumping him to the ground.

Midway through the half Penrith took the lead when a BAE clearance kick was charged down and their back row forward just got to the ball before it rolled dead. Soon after a long BAE pass was intercepted in the centre for the Penrith player to go 40 metres to touchdown. Again, the conversion was missed 15 � 5 to the home side.

The 14 man BAE team showed great determination to get back into the game. Danny Moyes and Chris Thompson grafted in the second row and No. 8 Matt Knagg was making good ground with his forceful running.

BAE, after a good passing move and support play, resulted in stalwart Billy White delivering the final pass for Tim Clark to again force his way over in the corner.

Soon after we took the lead, good play by winger Matt Burrows resulted in fly half Danny White spotting a gap to run strongly to touch down, Rick Gadsden calmly slotted over a good conversion to give BAE the lead for the first time 17 � 15.

As to be expected Penrith came straight back and with the complete 14 man BAE shattered through their tackling stint the Penrith forwards just managed to create a try which was converted. Final score 22 � 17 to Penrith.

This really was a tremendous effort from the complete BAE team. A special mention needs to be given to Billy White, finding out through son Danny we were short he not only volunteered to play but agreed to stand

Keswick	24	23	1	0	839	115	724	47	0
Netherhall	23	20	0	3	601	147	454	40	0
Whitehaven	24	17	0	7	722	266	456	34	0
Millom	21	14	2	5	537	212	325	30	0
Moresby	21	13	0	8	387	273	114	22	-4
Greengarth	24	11	0	13	303	448	-145	22	0
Creighton	22	11	0	11	421	329	92	20	-2
Hawcoat Park	23	9	1	13	362	504	-142	19	0
Aspatria Eagles	23	8	1	14	291	575	-284	17	0
Cockermouth	23	8	0	15	279	508	-229	16	0
Egremont	24	6	1	17	306	491	-185	13	0
Workington Steelers	23	3	0	20	210	886	-676	6	0
Wigton Wanderers	23	3	0	20	183	687	-504	4	-2