SALE SHARKS DIVISION 5 NORTH
PGRFC 5th XV 15 – 36 Bolton RUFC 3rd XV
(Picture of Chris Jenkins feeling the force of the Bolton side)
A chilly day at Lightfoot Lane where the 5ths welcomed Bolton who are looking for promotion back into the 4th Division. The home side was without usual skipper Mick Mortimer but was being steered by Az in his absence. An unexpected problem for the newest captain of the Hoppers family was the extra players at his disposal following the postponement of the 4th XV match at the last minute which gave him several extra players.
The game unfortunately was another example of what is becoming a ‘typical’ 5th team performance. Being slow to move out of 1st gear for the first 30 minutes, a lack of urgency in both attack and defence, missing tackles and wasteful discipline meant the away side was 28 points to the good before the 5ths found their 2nd and 3rd gears. The Hoppers response was a measly 3 points which was converted by DJ following a rare penalty in a decent position.
The 2nd half showed what the Hoppers were capable of, as they competed strongly with the top of the table visitors. The 5ths outscored the Bolton side with a spectacular try from former 1st team skipper JP (John Peterson), who picked the ball up about 35 metres out and showing footwork that would shock most people who know him, led him to beat 4 defenders before scoring whilst the free scoring Tinny added a further try for the 5ths in a productive second half.
If all the members of the 5ths can find a better start to their matches from the kick off, instead of waiting for someone to do something to fire them up then they could also be looking at promotion rather than making sure they avoid the wooden spoon.
MoM – Jay Plummer for outstanding performance at fullback. The high ball never a problem for the tiny dynamo and despite the score line his last man tackling was inspirational for the rest of his team mates.
DoD – Ruari Lloyd for try avoidance when not being able to catch the ball on the wing with no pressure in front of him.
Would you like to play rugby for the Hoppers? We accommodate players of all ages and experiences, from new starters through to veterans looking to keep fit within an organised but fun environment. If you’re looking to start or return to the game then please contact the club by email on info@pgrfc.co.uk providing your contact details and we’ll get back to you straight away.
