U13's endure the elements for a win at Ashton on Mersey

Knowing that Marl Pits would be out of bounds this time of year and that south Manchester is always a lot more tropical we had arranged a fixture with Ashton on Mersey who we last played as U8's...little expecting the Rossendale weather to have an away day down the motorway at our hosts' ground too.

The boys warmed up as the snow started to fall and by kick off it was some way to horizontal. Nevertheless a steely determination had befallen the squad as one. This was typified most, to the delight of the assembled parents, by Seb who picked up just a stride or two better than he left off at our last match with the opening try. As the weather continued to offer nothing the boys stuck at their collective task and won turn-overs, scrums and forced the opposition back to build a healthy half time lead.

Capitulation could have come after the break with the snow now in our faces but not a bit of it. Constant rotation of players to keep them warm didn't disrupt the tireless work of the pack and the incisions the backs were making. We squandered a couple of chances by going for glory but by that stage it didn't matter. All were relieved when the referee blew for full time. Apologies to Ashton for the enormous hot water bill from the showers which some enjoyed far too long. And thanks to them for being generous hosts who we look forward to seeing back at Marl Pits in March.

As the song says...always take the weather with you...