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| HFH U17's Season 2009/10 (From January 2010 Onwards) |
10 Jan 10, Orrell St James v's Halton F H [EDGE HILL UNIVERSITY NWC CUP - Quarter Finals] CANCELLED
17 Jan 10, Orrell St James v's Halton F H [EDGE HILL UNIVERSITY NWC CUP - Quarter Finals] CANCELLED
24 Jan 10, Orrell St James v's Halton F H [EDGE HILL UNIVERSITY NWC CUP - Quarter Finals]
31 Jan 10, FREE DATE
07 Feb 10, Woolston Rovers v's Halton F H
14 Feb 10, Halton F H v's Bold Miners [EDGE HILL UNIVERSITY NWC CUP - Semi Finals]
28 Feb 10, Halton F H v's Crosfields
07 Mar 10, Halton F H v's Bold Miners
14 Mar 10, Wigan St Patricks v's Halton F H
21 Mar 10, Halton F H v's Leigh Miners Rangers
28 Mar 10, Halton F H v's Crosfields [EDGE HILL UNIVERSITY NWC CUP - FINAL]
10 Jan 10, Orrell St James v's Halton F H [EDGE HILL UNIVERSITY NWC CUP - Quarter Finals] CANCELLED
THE EDGE HILL UNIVERSITY NORTH WEST COUNTIES CUP COMPETITION - Quarter Finals.
12:15pm KICK-OFF.
C A N C E L L E D - Snow covered and frozen pitch (reported as low as minus 12 degrees celsius).
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17 Jan 10, Orrell St James v's Halton F H [EDGE HILL UNIVERSITY NWC CUP - Quarter Finals] CANCELLED
Original fixture was Woolston v's HFH.
THE EDGE HILL UNIVERSITY NORTH WEST COUNTIES CUP COMPETITION - Quarter Finals.
12:15pm KICK-OFF.
C A N C E L L E D - Snow covered pitch.
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24 Jan 10, Orrell St James v's Halton F H [EDGE HILL UNIVERSITY NWC CUP - Quarter Finals]
THE EDGE HILL UNIVERSITY NORTH WEST COUNTIES CUP COMPETITION - Quarter Finals.
12:15pm KICK-OFF.
Conceded by Orrell St James.
HFH U17's now progress straight into the Semi Finals stages of the Edge Hill University NWC Cup Competition.
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31 Jan 10, FREE DATE
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07 Feb 10, Woolston Rovers v's Halton F H
11:45am KICK-OFF.
After a lay-off of some nine weeks, the HFH U17’s finally got a 2010 game under their belts – and what a result!
It was Woolston Rovers who got this game under way when they kicked-off to the HFH U17’s. After three sets, the Hornets lost possession in trying to force the play, and this resulted in a scrum feed to Woolston.
On the five minute mark, Brett Mikalauskas had to leave the field left the field after suffering an elbow to the throat – an incident which set the tone of play from Woolston for the rest of the game.
It was some good handling from the Woolston side, working the ball wide, which lead to the Woolston Centre stepping inside to score in the corner. This was first points to Woolston at 04 - 00.
Determined to make amends, the HFH U17’s followed up the restart kick with some excellent tough tackling. This resulted in an early forced error, and for the Hornets to retrieve the ball. Some great inter-passing led to Ste Shone cutting inside to take the ball through the Woolston Fullback and score just to the right of the posts. Danny Price kicked the conversion to put the Hornets in the lead 04 - 06.
The Hornets continued to make inroads and put on a fantastic and enthusiastic defensive performance. The very and usually over aggressive Woolston players stretched the rules to the limit with continuous flops, punches, elbows and knees, not seen by the referee.
The Hornets created a good move when they worked the ball out to the left hand side and newly introduced Mike O’Brien (replacing Jack Williams for a well deserved rest), stormed through a small gap in the Woolston defence and took the ball over the line for a great try. Danny Price was good again with the conversion to make the score line 04 – 12 at half time.
For the second half restart, the Hornets kicked off to Woolston and the HFH players continued their fantastic defensive efforts. Moving the ball through fast hands to the Hornets left, Jordan Holland stepped inside and powered over the line for another good try. Danny Price was on hand again for the conversion and the score increased to 04 – 18 for the Hornets.
At this stage in the game, the Hornets were dominating the rugby, as they stood up to the intimidation and ill disciplined play of the Woolston forwards.
Craig Glover took another blow to his right knee and unfortunately had to leave the field.
Taking their foot off the pedal, the Hornets conceded a sloppy try near the posts, after poor line speed allowed the Woolston forward to burst over the line. That made it 10 – 18.
Taking control of the game once again, the Hornets pressed Woolston and forced a knock-on allowing Hornets to feed the scrum. Mike O’Brien, picking-up the ball up from the back of the scrum, sped on the blind side and dived over the line near the sticks. Danny Price gladly put the conversion over to make it 10 – 24.
Again, the Hornets were thinking the game was won, and a couple of silly penalties allowed Woolston to press the Hornets line. Lazy ‘marker work’ enabled the Woolston Hooker to dive between the so called defenders, to score a try. With a good conversion, the score moved to 16 - 24.
As ever, it was some harsh words from Team Head Coach Neil Meadows, which reignited and revved up the intensity and work load of Hornets players.
Displaying some excellent Rugby League, the Hornets once more pressurized the Woolston line. A quick PTB and a superb face-ball across Jordan Holland, allowed Jimmy Hiltons to basket the ball and dive over the line for a fantastic try in the corner. This time, Pricey was unlucky with the touchline conversion and the score read 16 – 28.
There was only enough time for a short kick-off, and as Sam Slavin turned to chase the ball, the Woolston No 10 deliberately pushed Sam in the back. This was an ‘off-the-ball’ incident and it sent Sam to the ground. As a consequence, Sam received a dislocated shoulder and had to be taken to hospital.
This was yet another disgraceful act and one of total disregard to the rules of Rugby League, and something which was prevalent throughout the whole of the game from the Woolston side. The referee was eager to then blow his whistle to signal the end of the game, with a score line of 16 – 28 to the Hornets.
Overall, this was a very good effort and performance from the Hornets players. They were always being provoked and attacked by the Woolston players, but this never stopped the Hornets players from playing what they had travelled to Warrington for – to play Rugby League.
This was a marvellous display by the HFH U17’s, considering the fact that they have had a nine week lay-off and were somewhat rusty. It was a great win to secure yet another valuable two league points.
Next week, the HFH U17’s face Bold Miners at home in the Semi Final of the Edge Hill University North West Counties Cup Competition. Kick-off is 11:45am.
Tries Scored:
Mike O’Brien – 2
Jimmy Hilton, Jordan Holland and Ste Shone – 1 each
Goal Kicks:
Daniel Price - 4
Awards:
Man of the Match: Tom Spencer
Best Tackler: Ste Shone
Most Improved: TBC
Final Score:
WOOLSTON ROVERS (U17’s) 16 verses HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U17’s) 28
HFH U17’s Team:
Callum Hayes, Sam Slavin, Ste Shone, Jordan Holland, Jimmy Hilton, Danny price, Connor Henry, Scott McCann, Karl Bradley, Brett Mikalauskas, Tom Spencer, Jack Williams, David Meadows
Substitutes:
Mike O’Brien, Craig Glover
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14 Feb 10, Halton F H v's Bold Miners [EDGE HILL UNIVERSITY NWC CUP - Semi Finals]
12:15pm KICK-OFF.
Meadows Hero’s!
HFH U17’s reach the Final of the Edge Hill University North West Counties Cup Competition.
Head Team Coach Neil Meadows must have been undoubtedly the most pleased coach with this weekend’s results.
Due to a rack of injuries, the HFH U17’s were only able to field the essential thirteen players plus one substitute. Under normal circumstances, at least four of these players wouldn’t have even made the subs bench but such is the heart of the players in this squad.
Ironically, the HFH U17’s had several fit and recently signed new players from the folded Widnes St Marie’s Club on the side lines. Unfortunately these players were cup tied and illegible to play.
Playing a massive Bold Miners side that had a full seventeen named players, five of which had signed ‘Play & Pay’ contracts with professional clubs, the Hornets really had an uphill job on their hands.
In a crunching game, the Hornets scored first when Jimmy Hilton dropped on a loose ball over the Bold try line, following a boot down field by Craig Glover from the half way line. This was twenty two minutes into the game and on the first tackle, having won the ball from a scrum.
Four minutes later, Bold crossed in the corner and score line of 04 – 04 stood to half time.
Second half and a high kick by Craig Glover saw the two Bold players going for the ball collide. Craig was on hand to swoop the loose ball up and head for the try line. In support was Scott McCann who continued to make ground but he was then able to get the ball back to Craig Glover. Seeing Winger Callum Hayes on his outside, Craig flung the ball to him and Callum crossed deep in the corner.
Pricey took the touchline conversion but the Hornets luck was out! With the crowd behind Pricey cheering a beautiful kick, the ball flew in height and still ascending; hit the near top of the left hand side rugby post, dropped down, hit the cross bar and fell to the ground on the playing field side. This was a really unlucky miss for Pricey and the Hornets but they took the lead 08 – 04.
Having to tackle, tackle, tackle, the Hornets players were starting to get shot at and with 20 minutes gone of the second half, Bold mustered a try and conversion to make it 08 – 10 in Bolds favour.
A silly piece of mouthing off to the referee gave Bold an excellent chance to pressurise the Hornets line and come away with potentially six points. Instead they elected for the free kick and just took the two points to lengthen their lead to 08 – 12.
Time was running out and the HFH U17’s were facing defeat in the face but the gallant Hornets had left the final sting until the very end.
Pushing themselves to the extremes of endurance, the Hornets players amassed one final attack. Reaching the Bold quarter of the field, the ball went to Pricey on the last. A high cross field kick was beautifully place by Pricey to fall near the Bold try line. Several Hornets players had given chase, and in a multitude of Bold players, Hornets Full Back Davis Meadows was the one who jump the highest and out his name on the ball.
Collecting cleanly, David just fell to ground with the ball and levelled the scores at 12 – 12.
Up steps Pricey with the conversion. Placing the ball on the cone to the left of the sticks, there was total silence. With a run and swing of his leg, the ball gleefully flew over the cross bar with only minutes remaining but more importantly, the Hornets had now taken the lead 14 – 12.
The incensed Bold players ran to the half way line to restart the game and a low hard kick hit a Hornets player before going into touch. Scrum down, Bold out in and the HFH U17’s were now tackling for their lives. This they did impeccably and withstood the last few minutes of pressure before the whistle was blown to end the game.
Ecstatic Hornets players and supporters enjoyed some wonderful celebrations but the players were soon back under Neil’s control as he put them through their cool-down routines.
This was a wonderful performance and one that every single Hornets player can be proud of. You did yourselves, your coaching staff and the HFH Club very proud with today’s performance and result. You are surely all Meadows Hero’s!
Next Sunday, it’s back to league business when the HFH U17’s entertain Crosfields at Wilmere Lane Playing Fields with, 11:45am kick-off.
The Hornets face Crosfields once again but this time in the Final of the Edge Hill University North West Counties Cup Competition. This is scheduled for Sunday 28th March 2010, and will be staged at the sponsors Edge Hill University Campus. Kick-off TBC.
Tries Scored:
Jimmy Hilton, Callum Hayes and David Meadows – 1 each
Goal Kicks:
Daniel Price - 2
Awards:
Man of the Match: Jack Williams
Best Tackler: TBC
Most Improved: TBC
Final Score:
HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U17’s) 14 verses BOLD MINERS (U17’s) 12
HFH U17’s Team:
Jordan Holland, Jimmy Hilton, Daniel Price, David Meadows, Mike O’Brien, Jack Williams, Ste Shone, Thomas Spencer, Brett Mikalauskas, Scott McCann, Karl Bradley, Callum Hayes, Craig Glover
Substitutes:
Conor Henry
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28 Feb 10, Halton F H v's Crosfields
11:45am KICK-OFF.
The HFH U17's maintained their stance at the top of the NWC Premier League, with a resounding victory over Warrington side Crosfields.
Billed as the dry run to March 28th, when the Hornets take on Crosfields in the Final of the Edge Hill University NWC Cup Competition, this was bound to be an exciting game. True enough, a half time score of 12 - 06 in the Hornets favour, was an indication of the closeness and competitiveness in the game between these two honest and respected sides.
When Crosfields drew level at 12 - 12, eight minutes into the second half, the intensity of the game increased and the Hornets had to find another gear.
Starting the game with new signing Jack Moon in the thirteen line-up, it was Crosfields who drew first blood with a well taken early try, which was successfully converted to make it 00 - 06.
Not having any of it, the HFH U17's responded almost immediately, when Winger Jimmy Hilton crossed for a spectacular try. Pricey converted and it was now 06 - 06.
With twenty five minutes already gone, the Hornets were once more on the attack. This time it was Callum Hayes who collected the ball and commenced his dart down the right hand side wing. Hanging onto his shirt tails was the Crosfields winger who could do nothing but tug and tug at Callum's jersey after Callum had already made good ground. Delaying Callum in his stride, the Crosfields Winger had stopped but not immobilised Callum. Turning to his side, Callum spotted Danny Price, ferreting alongside him.
Without a second thought, the ball was laid to Pricey, who sprinted clear and saluted the crowd by punching the air, before putting the ball down under the sticks for a great supporting try. After getting his lungs re-energised, Pricey gleefully kicked the ball over the crossbar to put the Hornets in a 12 - 06 lead.
Team Head Coach, Neil Meadows then gave breathers to hard running Karl Bradley and influential Brett Mikalauskas. Taking to the field as their replacements were Conor Henry and another new HFH U17's signing, Anthony Jackson. Immediately, both players were in the thick of it and after a few minutes, the half time whistle was sounded, with the Hornets in the lead.
Eight minutes into the second half, and Crosfields scored an almost length of the field try, when the attacking Hornets team spilled the ball. The pacey Crosfields player, excessively out sprinted the defending Hornets players to score under the sticks. A conversion made it 12 - 12.
Another new signing, Joey Millar, got onto the playing area when Neil Meadows rested the very hard working Scott McCann. Mike O'Brien was also introduced from the bench with never say die Jack Williams also took a well deserved rest.
With the Hornets once more attacking and eighteen minutes gone of the second half, a ‘none-worrying’ (for Crosfields that is) floating high pass went to Standoff Craig 'Shabba' Glover. Jumping high to retrieve to ball, Craig put the ball into his two hands and weighed up the situation. With the whiff of a gap, Shab was through and placed the ball under the sticks for a beauty of a try. Pricey converted and it was now 18 - 12.
But the Hornets weren't finished there.
On twenty five minutes gone, the Hornets were attacking and in the Crosfields half of the field. Pricey collected a pass and decided to put in one of his cross field kicks. To perfection, the ball glided to its majestic height, while at the same time, travelling towards the corner flag.
Just at the right moment, the ball decided to head towards terra firma, but only after noticing Jimmy Hilton was on hand to collect and plonk the ball over the line for his second try. Pricey was consistent with his kicking, and a great touchline conversion was successful.
This put the Hornets ahead 24 -12 and that's how things remained for the last few minutes. But Crosfields kept hammering away at the Hornets try line, right up to the final whistle, and it was only doggered resilience in the tackling department that kept Crosfields at bay.
This was a great league result for the HFH U17's, and a moral victory ahead of the March 28th Final.
It was good to see the new signings fitting extremely well into the side, and the potential for much more from this side can easily be identified.
Well done fellas, this was a great result. You all deserve a pat on the back.
Tries Scored:
Jimmy Hilton - 2
Daniel Price and Craig Glover – 1 each
Goal Kicks:
Daniel Price - 4
Awards:
Man of the Match: Karl Bradley
Best Tackler: TBC
Most Improved: TBC
Final Score:
HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U17’s) 24 verses CROSFIELDS (U17's) 12
HFH U17’s Team:
Jordan Holland, Jimmy Hilton, Daniel Price, David Meadows, Jack Williams, Ste Shone, Thomas Spencer, Brett Mikalauskas, Scott McCann, Karl Bradley, Callum Hayes, Craig Glover, Jack Moon
Substitutes:
Mike O’Brien, Conor Henry, Joey Millar, Anthony Jackson
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07 Mar 10, Halton F H v's Bold Miners
1:00pm KICK-OFF.
Fielding the same selected thirteen that started the game against Crosfields the previous week, the HFH U17’s knew the pressure was on to grind out a victory, and semi secure the Championship.
But it was going to be really hard, as Bold Miners were of the same frame of mind, having only been beaten once in league games this season – by the Hornets. So a great tough, rough and pulsating game of rugby league was expected by all, and nobody can say they were disappointed by what they witnessed.
Chances were there for the Hornets, such as on their first set of six. Craig Glover kicked it high on the sixth and the Bold Full Back fumbled. Ste shone was there and about to collect the ball, with the way in front of him clear, when the referee shouted for the Hornets to give 10. Unfortunately, Ste didn’t realise the referee wasn’t shouting at him, and just as he would, Ste left the ball alone.
It took five minutes for the Hornets to make their first break, when Jack Moon romped through a gap, only to be caught by the Bold Winger.
On eight minutes, Hornets players were caught off-side on the half way line, and Bold blasted the ball into touch in the right hand corner. On their own line and under pressure, the Hornets held the big Bold forwards out, but when the ball was passed across their line, Bold scored in the opposite corner. The touch line conversion made it 00 - 06.
Twenty minutes into the game, and with all players working hard, Team Head Coach Neil Meadows, rested hard working Karl Bradley for Joey Miller. It wasn’t long before Joey was in the thick of it. Taking the ball towards the sticks, Joey had three Bold forwards hanging from him, yet he has able to get the ball out. There in support was Fullback, David Meadows, who score just wide of the sticks. Pricey converted and it was 06 – 06.
Bold broke through the Hornets defences but then a Hornets offence resulted in a free kick to Bold. On twenty five minutes, Bold had crossed the hornets line again, and goaled to make it 06 – 12.
With Conor Henry, Anthony Jackson replacing Brett Mikalauskas, Jack Moon, and Karl Bradley returning to the field for Joey Miller, the intensity of the game was building.
On thirty minutes, and with Bold attacking in the Hornets half, the ball was kicked on the last. It sliced off the side of the boot and went sideways. There to pick-up the ball was Pricey, who out sprinted the chasing Bold players to score a fine individual try to the left of the sticks. Pricey’s conversion made it all square at 12 – 12.
Hornets then found themselves on the attack again in the Bold quarter of the pitch, but a long racking pass to Winger, Jimmy Hilton, was intercepted by the Bold Winger. Stretching his legs, he flew along the wing with his run way clear. Had it not been for Callum Hayes covering from the other wing, a try would have been certain.
Brett Mikalauskas returned to the field for Karl Bradley, then on thirty three minutes, Bold were once again pressing hard on the Hornets try line. A long pass out to the Winger was collected clean, and with another touch line conversion, Bold had taken the lead again, 12 – 18.
With only minutes to half time, Jack Moon returned to the pitch for injured Ste Shone, and the Hornets were on the attack. On the last tackle, Craig Glover lofts a high ball into the Bold half and gives chase. In a one-to-one tackle, Craig stole the ball back and the Hornets finished the half camped on the Bold try line.
Second half, Pricey was rested due to a leg injury he’d sustained in the first half, and Bold kicked-off to the Hornets. Immediately the Hornets put themselves under pressure by knocking-on near their own line. Some dedicated tackling kept Bold at bay.
Three minutes gone, and O’Brien got his first feel for the game when he replaced Anthony Jackson, and it wasn’t long before Mike was charging forward with the ball.
A great break was made by right Winger Callum Hayes, who collected a neat pass and started to coast down the touch line. Some defensive cover caused Callum to kick ahead, and giving chase was Jack Moon who pounced on the Bold Fullback.
Joey Miller replaced Karl Bradley, and the Hornets were once again in attacking mood. The ball was flung out wide to the left, but it was gobbled-up by the Bold Winger again, who was brought down on the Hornets 25 yard line. But once again, the Hornets were self inflicting their own pain.
Anthony Jackson returned for never say die Jack Williams, and on fifteen minutes, two consecutive free kicks had got Bold into the Hornets half. When the Hornets regained possession, another wonderful run and kick by Callum Hayes was this time followed up by Conor Henry, who pinned the bold player to the ground.
Knocking-on, due to the tackle, the Hornets regained possession once again, but it was short lived as the Hornets then knocked-on themselves. On twenty minutes gone of the second half, Pricey was swapped for Brett Mikalauskas.
A lot of the play was contained to the centre of the pitch, and when Bold spilled the ball, there first was Conor Henry to scoop-up the loose ball. Running away from the Bold defenders, Conor was just restrained by a Bold player tucking at his jersey. Thinking smart, Conor looked to his side and there was supporting Scott McCann, who collected a neat ball, to score a great try. Pricey converted and it was now 18 – 18.
With about eight minutes to go, the Hornets pressed hard and got to the Bold sticks, thanks to Scott McCann and Mike O’Brien. On the last, the ball found its way to Pricey who, from a standing position, drop kicked the ball over the Bold cross bar. This now made it 19 – 18, in the Hornets favour and with little time left.
Unfortunately for the gallant Hornets players, Bold found that extra gear of determination, and were camped on the Hornets try line. It was tackle after tackle, for the Hornets players, and with the final whistle virtually upon all, Bold mustered a try wide out in the corner, to clinch a great advertisement for the game of amateur rugby league.
Next week, the HFH U17’s play Wigan St Patrick’s away, in another toughie league fixture. Kick-off is 11:45am.
Tries Scored:
David Meadows, Daniel Price and Scott McCann – All 1 each
Goal Kicks:
Daniel Price – 3, plus 1 Drop Goal
Awards:
Man of the Match: TBC
Best Tackler: TBC
Most Improved: TBC
Final Score:
HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U17’s) 19 verses BOLD MINERS (U17's) 22
HFH U17’s Team:
Jordan Holland, Jimmy Hilton, Daniel Price, David Meadows, Jack Williams, Ste Shone, Thomas Spencer, Brett Mikalauskas, Scott McCann, Karl Bradley, Callum Hayes, Craig Glover, Jack Moon
Substitutes:
Mike O’Brien, Conor Henry, Joey Millar, Anthony Jackson
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14 Mar 10, Wigan St Patricks v's Halton F H
11:45am KICK-OFF.
00 - 18
Conceeded - WSP injuries prevented the raising of a team.
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21 Mar 10, Halton F H v's Leigh Miners Rangers
11:45am KICK-OFF.
NOTE: This is the final league fixture of the season. Having not played Leigh M R in the current season, this fixture will result in the winning team being awarded all '4' league points.
A heartfelt ‘Thanks’ goes to Leigh Miners Rangers U17’s players for their courage and dedication to amateur rugby league. With only twelve available players, and having committed to the fulfilment of fifteen seasonal fixtures, (winning only one of them), each and every LMR player deserves a medal supported by the highest of accolades.
This was a game that had an inevitable conclusion right from the very start. Within a few minutes, Jordan Farrell crossed in the corner for what would be the first of three tries. Even though Pricey’s kick went wide, the ‘two pointers’ were to become irrelevant in the end.
This was a day to play as a team. To keep the ball alive and continue to go through the moves learnt in training. It was an opportunity to practice against a ‘live’ team, in readiness for the Edge Hill University NWC Cup the following week.
Callum Hayes was next on the score sheet, after making use of the space on the wing and stretching his legs out. He was followed by Jordan Farrell (another two tries), Tom Spencer, Danny Price and Conor Henry. With Pricey acknowledging the environment of the game, he conceded the conversion attemp for Conor’s try to Joey Miller and Joey didn't let him down.
Come half time, the score line read 36 – 00.
The second half was a mirror image with David Meadows scoring straight from the kick-off. With Mike O’Brien, Craig ‘Shaba’ Glover, Jack Williams and Scott McCann all scoring tries, in a half which had fizzled out way before the referee had blew for full time.
Nonetheless, it allowed Pricey to register five conversions, and hot on his heels was Joey Miller, who also reached the five figure. Watch out Pricey!
It was good to see the Hornets players giving the ball plenty of air, and for utilising the occasion, but next Sunday’s proposition will be an entirely different kettle of fish.
When the final whistle was sounded, the relief on the shoulders of the LMR players was evident to see. After exchanging handshakes, the LMR players were applauded from the field by the watching crowd of both clubs, while the Hornets players went through their cool-down routines.
The last league fixture of the 2009/2010 season had now been concluded but for the HFH U17’s, just one more game lay ahead of them.
On Sunday 28th March, the HFH U17’s travel to Edge Hill University Campus for the Final of the Edge Hill University North West Counties Cup, where they face tough opponents Crosfields. Any thoughts of semblance relating to today’s game can be immediately eradicated.
Crosfields a very good team; they contain some excellent players and as a team, perform like true professionals. The Hornets team is no different, and on the day, it’s the team who rises to the occasion, who makes the least mistakes, who takes the chances and who has that little bit of luck, who will come out winners at the end of the game.
Put the effort in boys, play beyond your capabilities by in-sighting a total endurance regime, and lift yourselves to the final plateau of finishing a great season by rewarding your coaching staff, parents, supporters and the HFH Club, with that silverware. You, the players, also deserve that accolade.
Come on lads, you can all do it!
Tries Scored:
Jordan Farrell – 3
Callum Hayes – 2
Thomas Spencer, Daniel Price, Conor Henry, David Meadows, Mike O'Brien, Craig Glover, Jack Williams and Scott McCann - All 1 each
Goal Kicks:
Daniel Price and Joey Jones – 5 each
Awards:
Man of the Match: Jordan Farrell
Best Tackler: TBC
Most Improved: TBC
Final Score:
HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U17’s) 72 verses BOLD MINERS (U17's) 00
HFH U17’s Team:
Jordan Holland, Jimmy Hilton, Daniel Price, David Meadows, Mike O’Brien , Ste Shone, Thomas Spencer, Scott McCann, Karl Bradley, Conor Henry, Callum Hayes, Craig Glover, Jack Moon
Substitutes:
Jack Williams, Brett Mikalauskas, Sam Slavin, Joey Miller, Anthony Jackson, Niall Taylor
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28 Mar 10, Halton F H v's Crosfields [EDGE HILL UNIVERSITY NWC CUP - FINAL]
12:45pm Kick-off.
The Edge Hill University NWC Cup Competition - FINAL
The HFH U17’s were crowned the Edge Hill University NWC Cup Champions after a hard fought battle against Warrington opponents, Crosfields.
Kicking off with the diagonal wind behind them, the Hornets kept Crosfields pinned in their half for their first set of six. A kick on the last resulted in a free kick to the Hornets for a Crosfields player being in front of the kicker. This initial pressure was maintained when a further free kick was awarded for a high tackle on Craig Glover. Tapping the ball, the Hornets forwards battered away at the Crosfields line. When the ball was spilled backwards in the tackle, it was Crosfields who reacted quickest to seize the ball.
After eight minutes, Crosfields had weathered the Hornets initial pressure, made their way down the pitch, and were now threatening the Hornets try line. But the Hornets held Crosfields out and came away with the ball. A couple of drives and then the ball found its way to Craig Glover. Holding and taunting the opposition with ball in two hands, Craig laid a neat pass to Winger Jimmy Hilton, who had run a slight angle to make space.
Jimmy latched onto the pass and sped down the length of the pitch without a finger been laid on him. He headed straight for the corner, and had created sufficient space between himself and any would be Crosfields player, that after crossing the try line, he was able to continue and score under the sticks. This made an easy conversion for Pricey and the Hornets had taken the first initiative at 06 - 00.
From the restart, Fullback David Meadows, caught a high ball and immediately put the Hornets back on the attack with a swerving break. Tom Spencer, who never let up in the game be it tackling or driving the ball forward, was on hand to make great yards towards the Crosfields try line. David Meadows hadn’t finished yet and he had another feel of the ball and forced his way almost over the line.
Eventually, it was Brett Mikalauskas who, from the play-the-ball, scurried over the line for the Hornets second try. Pricey once again had a less than difficult conversion for his standing and so he made it 12 – 00.
Even though things were looking rosy for the Hornets, the nerves of a Finals game were evident. After the restart, the Hornets knocked-on when it was the second tackle. That put the Hornets back on their 20m line and defending but fortunately the Hornets were awarded a free kick for indiscipline by one of the Crosfields players. The free kick took the Hornets forward, and from the tap the ball and pass, it was knocked-on and on the very first pass. The Hornets were peddling backwards again.
On seventeen minutes, Conor Henry was introduced to the game for Brett Mikalauskas, and two minutes later, it was Prop Forward for Prop Forward, as Joey Miller replaced the always hard working Karl Bradley.
In some respects, the Hornets were their own worst enemies when spates of consecutive free kicks were awarded against them for off-side. These got Crosfields really close to the Hornets try line, and then another free-kick for a high tackle, put them almost over it. Fortunately for the Hornets team, Crosfields knocked-on and the roles were reversed.
The Hornets weren’t so easily out of trouble, as Crosfields held them in their own 20m, and then got their set of six. Like two evenly contested sides as they are, the Hornets were now proving their defensive skills. On the last, Crosfields put a high kick in to the corner. There to collect the ball masterfully from the air was Jimmy Hilton, and the pressure was relieved.
From the resultant 20m tap, the Hornets swarmed (sorry about that!) forward with some good driving work by Jack Williams and Joey Miller. When the ball found the three quarters, some space had been created and Ste Shone, who goes about his business like there’s no tomorrow, realised this and flung the ball to Winger Callum Hayes. Like a bat out of hell, Callum tore down the wing giving little time for any Crosfields players to think. So much so, Callum latched onto new coordinates when he’s assessed the situation, and steered a course for in between the sticks. Another Pricey knock over and the score had risen to 18 – 00. Could this be true?
It was now twenty eight minutes gone, and Head Coach Neil Meadows made another substitution when he interchanged Mike O’Brien for toughie Jack Williams, who had never shrugged from his workload.
Hard running Joey Miller made a couple of fine bursts and breaks, one of which took him right up to the Crosfields try line. Still standing with would be Crosfields tacklers on him, Joey was able to turn and lay the ball back but it was the Crosfields players who reacted first.
On thirty minutes, Joey Miller was swapped for Karl Bradley, who had got his lungs working again. Several passages of play saw both teams competing for ground in the middle of the pitch. With only seconds of the first half remaining, Crosfields where in a prime location, under the sticks and right near the Hornets try line. A couple of inside reverse passes bamboozled the Hornets defence, and when the conversion went over, the whistle sound for the end of the first half, with the score board now reading 18 – 06.
After a bit of a telling off for letting a soft try in, right on the half time whistle, the Hornets players lined up for the start of the second half. Now facing the elements, it was a different kettle of fish, and it would be a test of the Hornets composure to maintain the lead. Uncharacteristically, Crosfields kicked the ball out on the full, but they’d realised the power of the wind, which was in their advantage.
It was to be David Meadows who shouldered the Fullback position and responsibility for defusing the ‘high bombs’ which the Crosfields kickers exposed him to. David made it look easy and caught everything thrown at him and never nerved once. It instilled a feeling of confidence into the other Hornets players.
Five minute gone, and Brett Mikalauskas and Jack Williams were reintroduced for hard tackling around the legs Conor Henry, and Straight running Mike O’Brien.
Crosfields seized the opportunity to attack the Hornets line as when and it took some resilient defence qualities to hold the big forwards out. On the last tackle, another high kick to the corner was defused by Jimmy Hilton, in a similar manner to the first half but this time it resulted in an under the sticks drop out.
Not venturing very far because of the wind strength, the Hornets were once again tackling like demons but it didn’t last. Crosfields crossed for a try and an unconverted kick left the score line 18 – 10.
Things were getting closer and David Meadows made another break to be stopped short of the try line. A knock-on followed and the Hornets had lost the chance to score again. Following another free kick, Crosfields used the wind to gain a territorial advantage. A couple of tackles later, Crosfields were awarded a free kick for out-side, and although close to the Hornets line, elected to go for goal. This narrowed the score line to 18 – 12.
The next run of play resulted in a constant change of possession ownership. David Meadows collected yet another ‘up and under’ and the Hornets challenged an attack, battling against the wind, but within the set of six, they knocked-on. A penalty was given against the Hornets for off-side, and Crosfields found touch, won the scrum, and then knocked-on at the first tackle. But Crosfields got the ball back!
Some indiscipline, by way of speaking to the referee, resulted in Crosfields gaining more yardage and, when the referee deemed the Hornets players had been laying-on, Crosfields got another penalty and where comfortably camped near to the Hornets line. Good stints of tackling by Spencer, Williams, Moon and Bradley, alleviated a possible Crosfields try and the Hornets gained possession. But it was short lived!
A stray Hornets pass was collected by the Crosfields player and the line pressure was immediately back on. The Hornets luck lasted out though, when Crosfields decided to run on the last and a resultant knock-on gave possession to the Hornets.
On twenty five minutes, Joey Miller was sent back on for Karl Bradley. The Hornets were awarded a free kick near the half way line, for off side but the ball didn’t make touch. With the play contained to the middle of the pitch, the hornets fought tooth and nail to stop Crosfields from scoring.
Craig Glover was unfortunate not to score when he broke from the Hornets half of the pitch but an ankle tap brought him down just past the half way line, and the ball spilled out.
With possession and on twenty eight minutes gone of the thirty five minute second half, the unthinkable happened. Crosfields scored a try, and right under the sticks. The score hade now moved to 18 – 18.
With full time almost up, extra time looked inevitable but eh Hornets gave it one last big push and hat away at the Crosfields try line. Calum Hayes was unfortunate not to score when he went for the corner but was forced into touch over the line.
The Hornets regained possession and weren’t going to relent with the pressurisation of the Crosfields line. Well positioned under the sticks, Pricey asked for the ball, drew his leg back and banged over a drop goal to make it 19 – 18. The Hornets players and supporters went ecstatic and all thoughts went to the team winning the cup.
With stoppage time the only element to play, Sam Slavin was introduced for the injured Jack Williams and the game restarted. A cunning kick-off caused the Hornets to knock-on and Crosfields had got their hands back on the ball. With the referee starting to raise his arm to put the whistle to his mouth to blow for full time, Crosfields caused dejection in the Hornets camp, when they also popped a drop goal over. The score line was now 19 – 19 and the referee immediately blew for full time. How close the Hornets were to securing a victory!
With a few minutes’ interlude and officials entering the field of play to ascertain the extra time ruling, a seven and a half minute each way extra time was announced. The teams changed ends and so the Hornets had the wind with them for the first half.
As would be expected from two teams in this position, neither side wanted to lose and it was Crosfields who first challenged to seize the lead. Their attack brought them to the Hornets sticks, and inches from the try line. Calling in the big guns, Crosfields banged their way over the Hornets try line, and it was only the sheer determination of Craig Glover and his tackling technique, that caused the Crosfields play to knock-on over the try line right under the sticks. What a let off for the Hornets!
The Hornets summoned up an attack, but on the last tackle, the ball was kicked high and the wind carried it across the Crosfields dead ball line – not a smart idea. With Brett Mikalauskas replacing Conor Henry, Crosfields were awarded a free kick for ball ripping on the Hornets line. Credit to the Hornets though, as they held the Crosfields attack out and then proceeded to counter attack. With the wind in their favour, they knew points were needed, and that is just what they did.
Tom Spencer was the man who made the break, after some good forward drives. Into the Crosfields half and with Crosfields players scrambling back, Tom knew he needed some help. There, on his left hand side, was Winger Jimmy Hilton, who accepted the pass from Tom. Running for the corner, the available width of the target line was diminishing rapidly, as the Crosfields cover gathered in multitudes. This had become Mission Impossible, as Jimmy approached the try line.
Unruffled by the attention of all the Crosfields bodies, Jimmy had his sights firmly focus on getting that ball over the line, before being forced into touch. His determination was rewarded when he stretched out and placed the ball over the line, before taking the full displeasure and disappointment of the Crosfields defenders.
The try was good but unfortunately, with the kick right on the touch line, and the blustery wind conditions, Pricey’s kick went wide with the score at 23 – 19.
For the Hornets, it was now a matter of retaining the lead into the second half of extra time, knowing that Crosfields had gained the wind advantage. It wasn’t easy! There was some heart stopping moments, in what was the longest ever seven and a half minutes in every Hornets supporter’s life who was watching.
An aura of euphoria exploded from the Hornets spectators when they heard the three blows of the referee’s whistle, with the Hornets players jumping for joy. This has been an epic battle of all proportions with, unfortunately a loser but that’s what Cup finals are all about, and this one certainly had everything possible. The large crowd had been treated to a delight of rugby league in a clean fought game by two equally measured sides.
Congratulations go to ALL the Hornets players, whether playing today, not selected for the occassion (only allowed seventeen players) or for any injured players, its been a year and a fitting end to a magnificent season. But remember though, none of this would have been possible without the guiding hand of Head Team Coach Neil Meadows and Coach John Goulding.
Gentlemen, the Hornets players take their hats off to you; long may it last.
Tries Scored:
Jimmy Hilton – 2
Brett Mikalauskas and Callum Hayes - 1 each
Goal Kicks:
Daniel Price – 3 and 1 drop goal
Awards:
Man of the Match: The whole team
Final Score:
HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U17’s) 23 verses CROSFIELDS (U17’s) 19
HFH U17’s Team:
Jordan Holland, Jimmy Hilton, Daniel Price, David Meadows, Jack Williams, Ste Shone, Thomas Spencer, Brett Mikalauskas, Scott McCann, Karl Bradley, Callum Hayes, Craig Glover, Jack Moon
Substitutes:
Mike O’Brien, Sam Slavin, Conor Henry, Joey Miller
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