Whitchurch U13 vs Wirral U13

Wirral U13s travelled over the border to Shropshire for this encounter against Whitchurch.

Wirral had a squad of 17 (some players still being absent with injury), and every one of them made an impact on the field.

The game was very competitive, with neither side losing the will to win. Both sides started strong, but Whitchurch just couldn't find that extra inch to get over the whitewash.

A collapsed scrum early in the game saw both Wirral props (Will and Jimbo) go off injured - although Jimbo was able to return to the field later on. Hopefully, Will will recover from his knee injury quickly.

Matt, playing out of position on the wing, settled Wirral with two early tries.

Whitchurch fought back, and got within touching distance of the Wirral try line. In a highly impressive defensive display that lasted several minutes, the Wirralians somehow managed to keep the Reds from scoring. Tackling. Driving back. Pressurising. Eventually leading to the ball being spilled, and Wirral clearing their lines.

The Wirral forwards then showed a greater proficiency for retaining and winning possession. With numerous jackals from Ioan and Joseph, and ripped ball from the strong arms of Leon and Charlie.

This greater possession enabled the potent Wirral backline to stretch their legs; with tries coming from Starkers and Leon.

Matt then completed his hat-trick, with a contender for try of the season. The stand-in wing intercepted a Whitchurch pass in his own half, and sprinted down field. The Reds full-back was hot on his heels, and was going to catch him - but Matt had the presence of mind to send a grubber ahead. The ball required two more touches with the boot to get it across the line, with Matt winning the competition to land on it first.

Two more Wirral tries from second row Charlie, and a second for Leon completed the visitor's tally.

Whitchurch saved their scoring to the final 7 minutes of the game, with three well worked tries coming in quick succession; but Wirral were too far ahead for this to be anything more than a consolation.

This was an impressive squad win for the 17 Wirral players - with everyone playing an effective part.

Wirral tries: Matt (3), Starkers, Leon (2), Charlie.