Rossendale vs Wythenshawe

After a long summer the first game of the season brought the newly formed and a welcomed addition to the rugby union family in the shape of Wythenshawe to Rossendale. The usual Rossendale weather for opening weekend showed its face with a torrential downpour for 24 hrs leading up to the kick off.
From the off Dale dominated the game, turning the ball over at the rucks and mauls, getting into their passing rhythm early and the traditional lung busting runs from Rowan giving Rossendale the early edge and building a healthy lead. With scores from Rowan, Jason, Oli and new recruit Alex crossing the line after dancing down the wing.
This season sees the introduction of contested scrums; both teams seemed to relish this challenge giving little away against the head and winning their own scrums comfortably.
The only downside from the first half Rossendale performance was the number of penalties given away with the majority coming for offside.
The second half was a much more evenly balanced contest with Wythenshawe sparking into life and going on the attack with some big surging runs through the middle (notable mention to Wythenshawe's no.7 for his determined run down the right flank and the thundering tackle from Harry, neither was taking a backward step).
As the game wore on and legs became tired on the big pitch more of the ball was seen in the trenches with Callum and Camron doing their best to make big yards and Michael wrestling his way towards the try line with four defenders on his back.
Wythenshawe managed to edge the second half in terms of try’s scored but Dale did their best to keep up, with scores coming from Harry, Jamie and Jack.
A good run out to start the season with and a good workout for both teams, both in terms of attack and defensive play. Plenty of plus points to take away from today and plenty of things to work on for next week.

As a side note, best wishes and good luck to Wythenshawe in their endevours in their first full season

Onwards and Upwards UTD!

Today's team –

Luke Entwistle
Callum Roberts
Camron Seldon
Jack Tracey
Elijah Jones
Michael Bailey
Jamie Boxall
Harry Anchor
Alex Lee
Oliver Whitehead
Rowan Tweedale
Jason Wilkinson