Same again next week

Wirral XV’s were looking to extend their unbeaten run with a tricky trip to Crewe and Nantwich.
On a dry sunny calm day on a wide pitch it was obvious from the outset that we meant business with a high intensity warm up.
We were pleased to Welcome Chris Tyson and James Reeve coming down from the ones meaning that we were fielding another strong team and selection on Tuesday was a nightmare.
Wirral were soon into their stride and exerting pressure on the Crewe team with tenacious defence and a sensible precise kicking game from Josh Connolly and Ben Brooks.
Wirral were camped in the Crewe 22 and after 5 minutes were on the scoresheet. Following a series of excellent thrusts towards the line, the ball was spun blind where slick hands left a 2 on1 which Jimmy Yarranton superbly executed putting Skipper Mark Gidman in the corner. 5-0 and conversion missed.
Around 10 minutes and still in the Crewe 22 Wirral patiently worked forward until the ball was released to James Reeve who went through 2 would be defenders to score his first 2xv try of the year. The conversion was buried and 12-0 .
The next 15 minutes were played around the halfway line with both teams looking to attack. This showed how good the Wirral defence was with every Crewe attack repelled. Crewe struggled to make any gain line which resulted in them kicking away possession.
On 34 minutes after a strong scrum and break off. Tim Hodson found himself breaking free and was about to score only to be high tackled and penalty was given. Timmy was that close to the sticks, there are now rumours the post protectors are now pregnant.
The right decision was made and Wirral opted for the kick and this was converted by JC.
Half time and score was 15 -0 to the maroon and whites.
Changes were made and Hodson, Reeves and Adnams were replaced by Paton, Keane and Ludbrook (shouldn’t have bothered with that one).
Unfortunately within around 4 minutes of play Mike Ludbrook was sent back to the side lines and red carded for an alleged punch. This left Wirral down to 14 men and Crewe visibly had their tails up.
However, more defensive beauty was shown and for the next 15 minutes the boys were smashing all before them. Tom Stevens in particular enjoying the day and his tackle count must have been in the twenties. Tom was splendidly supported by the rest of the team who kept Crewe at bay.
On 58 minutes the defence on show resulted in a Wirral penalty at the breakdown that Ben ‘the boot’ Brooks tapped over from the 10 metre line. 18-0
On 62 minutes the game was secured and it came from an unlikely source. With the defence on top Wirral managed to steal ball (Jason Green) and Josh Stead passed to the blindside to Warren who had options inside and out , Mike Warren decided the inside ball was best and popped it to Chris ‘USAIN’ Tyson who outran the defence to score from 40 metres out to score in the corner. What a finish and what a man. Unfortunately he had to go off with a sore calf. The conversion was knocked over and 25 -0
The next try came on 67 minutes when the Crewe winger dropped the ball and the ball was secured again by Jason Green. There were 3 phases of recycled ball and Big Joe Adnams , bustled his way over to score. Conversion kicked 34 -0.
On 73 minutes a kick through and chase from Brooksy, finshed off the Wirral try scoring. The conversion was kicked and 39-0 with two minutes to go.
The last touch of the game resulted in Crewe scoring in the corner and this was much deserved for their efforts throughout.
The game was concluded and it was an excellent Wirral victory taking the spoils 39-5 in a good advert for rugby in this league. This was the best performance of the season to date.
Congratulations to Tom Stevens on winning the hit of the game (multiple hits) and for scooping the man of the match award.
Just a note in relation to Ludsy, anyone that knows him knows he plays hard but always within the laws of the game and in the 15 years I have had the pleasure to know him or play in the same team I am unaware of him being sent off before.
The team is doing well at present and constructive support would be much appreciated next Saturday the 15th October in what will be another tough game against Crewe.

Donno