West Park St Helens Senior Colts 41 - 21 Rossendale Senior Colts

Despite missing three players to Lancashire commitments, Dale still fielded a strong line up with members of the junior colts moving up. It was West Park who opened the scoring with their large pack of forwards tight driving culminating in the ball being moved quickly wide for them to score their first try. It was converted and they soon scored another try in similar fashion.

Rossendale’s response was hindered by the loss of prop forward Danny Rylance to a knee injury, but despite this they got themselves back into the contest with a try from the full back Sam Lowthian. Another junior colt Sam Bedlow added the extras. Rossendale’s character was put to the test even further when they conceded another try before the half time whistle sounded. Some welcome liquid refreshment, on a warm day saw Dale regroup and begin a second half come back. However some weak first up tackling following the restart culminated in Park scoring in the corner despite a disputed final pass.

Further woe for the valley side saw another try conceded try following another controversial decision. A quick tap penalty was deemed legitimate, but it was Rossendale’s defence that was found wanting. Nevertheless the fleet footed and pacey Sam Lowthian went over for a converted try, soon after a quick sniping run by scrum half Fraser Chadwick saw them claim a converted try 27 -21. The visitors were now in the ascendency and sensed the comeback was on. Alas, despite their forwards running out of steam, it was West Park who broke through the defensive line to seal their passage to the final with two converted tries in the closing minutes.

This Sunday the valley Under 19’s get another chance of getting through to a final as they travel to take on Chester in the last four of the League Cup.