Saints managed to win a close fought Plate quarter final game against our old friends Northwich. We have had many great battles against Northwich over the years and there has never been much in it.
Saints started the better and had all the early pressure without the cutting edge. A good move through several phases from right to left saw Lucas score with his usual clinical finish.
Again Saints had most of the ball but Northwich were fierce in their defence, well organised and uncompromising. They made it really hard for us. It was a try from man of the match Tempo that gave us some breathing space. He was excellent all day in defence, all over the pitch to the breakdowns and a real threat in attack. He picked up the ball went straight through a Northwich ruck came out with the ball, showing great pace running in from 50 yards beating several tackles on the way, try of the day!!. There was a further Tempo try before half time (15-0)
We hoped that we may be able to relax for the second half but Northwich made us fight all the way with some great tackles and defence to deny us. They also looked a threat with ball in hand but we defended well and starved them of the ball for long periods.
A mention for Matty C and Jacob A , both had to move last minute due to illness and unavailability with Jacob looking assured in an unfamiliar stand off position and Matty C marshalling the posession well at 9.
Happy birthday to Tom C. He was outstanding again with his hard straight running. We really need to work harder to support him and use the quick ball quickly and more effectively from his breaks. He was isolated too often leading to slow ball which is not as good to attack from.
Thanks very much to ref. Ian who kept the game flowing well and to our hosts for their usual hospitality.
Final score - Northwich U14s 0- 20 Saints U14s