Crosfields 6 - 1 Pilkington Recs ARLFC

A slightly later kick off today meant the sunshine was already out in force when Pilks took to the field against a superbly defensive Crosfields team.

Despite only having two subs to work with, Pilks started strongly. Our defensive line was good, Ethan Moore, Joshua Thiselton and Patrick Buckley once again fast off the line and straight into tackles which slowed Crosfields attack.

Cameron Cranny and Jacob Wilding were awesome today powering forward and gaining great ground to help us push the Crosfields defence. Luc Holloway and Daniel Sutton put in strong forward runs, and despite some good footwork from Daniel Tabern, Joshua Thiselton and Patrick Buckley we were unable to break down the wing, and Crosfields were fast off their line limiting our passing options throughout the game.

Saying that the first 10 minutes we held our own, and at only 1-0 to Crosfields we were still in the game. However whether it was the heat a few uncharacteristic errors led to frustration in the ranks and whilst Pilks were sorting themselves out the opposition scored 2 fast successive tries and we went in half time 3-0 down.

The second half went much the same. Jack Bailey, Joshua Burton and Max Tracey found some great gaps but were unable to finish, however Patrick Buckley showed great vision and made his way through to score Pilks only try of the game. Special mention again to Jacob Wilding was just as impressive in the second half, running forward and helping us gain those extra metres.

Once again our top tacklers worked their socks off today but the heat played a big part and Pilks couldn't find a way back,but the scoreline in no way reflected the massive effort by all who took part, and as parents we're all extremely proud of the boys on the field today.

After the match Graham introduced us to a new match trophy .. The Steve Matai Trophy .. or the Big Hit Trophy as the team will think of it as it will be awarded to the player who makes that tackle in the game everyone will be talking about!

MAN OF THE MATCH: JACOB WILDING
TOP TACKLER: JOSHUA THISELTON
MOST IMPROVED: ETHAN MOORE
THE STEVE MATAI TROPHY: CAMERON CRANNY