Bolton U14s 10-8 Rossendale U14s

Rossendale travelled to Bolton to contest the quarter-final of the Blacksticks Lancashire plate competition on a pleasant morning (at least the rain held off!), and with both sides fielding strong squads, a close game was on the cards. Bolton kicked off deep into Rossendale territory and it was evident that they were keen to get revenge for the loss at Marl Pits earlier in the season. The Bolton forwards applied immense pressure right from the off, winning an early penalty which they elected to run with. They recycled well and squeezed the Dale defence, but Dale held strong and repelled the onslaught. Both sides fought immensely hard to gain the upper hand, with play moving up and down the middle third of the pitch; neither side really getting any time in the opposition twenty-two and both sides defending with strength and aggression. The break-through came with about 5 minutes left of the first half, when Rhys Tighe burst up field before passing to Ciaran Campbell, who in turn passed to Tom Haigh to sprint over to score.

The second half saw more of the same, with both teams fighting to impose themselves, but it was Bolton that sneaked around the Dale defence to level the score. However, the even contest continued, until Bolton were penalised in their own twenty-two for handling in the ruck. James Willetts successfully kicked for goal to give the visitors the lead with six minutes left to play. Bolton would not lie down though, and after Dale were on the wrong end of four consecutive penalty decisions, Bolton went over to score the winning try. There was not enough time left for Rossendale to do anything about this, and the game ended Bolton 10-8 Rossendale.

It was an excellent performance from every player today, with gritty determination and effort visible throughout, so it was difficult decision to single out the Man of the Match, Ciaran Campbell for his steely defence in midfield.

Good luck to Bolton for the remainder of the competition - if they continue to play like that, they have a good change of taking the silverware

Thanks to the lads who didn't really get on the field today - I promise you that you will get more than your fair share next week!