On the brightest Sunday of the year so far, the sun certainly shone on the righteous as TMV U16s faced off against Bolton in the Lancashire Vase Final.
Lending ample support at Leigh RUFC, both teams were backed by enthusiastic and vocal groups of parents, grandparents and siblings - creating an electric atmosphere in which to play the game.
Having won the toss, TMV elected to play into the, at times, blustery and challenging wind.
Unperturbed, this didn’t stop MV from starting unusually quickly; swiftly gaining a 10-0 lead with tries (also unusually) out wide from Josh and Jack. Meanwhile, Bolton struggled to find their rhythm; stymied by some strong defensive work from the MV backs.
However, the initial efforts took their toll on TMV’s energy levels and Bolton blithely exploited the strong wind with some accurate kicking for speedy wingers to chase.
Suddenly under the cosh, MV struggled to respond to this tactic and the tables soon turned, leaving the boys in black and white 10-14 down.
Impressive handling soon produced a third Bolton try, nudging the scoreline to 10-19 and leaving Trafford with a challenging scoreline in the run up to half time.
Thankfully, some fresh legs added the drive required to move up the pitch and create the necessary space for Luke to score MV’s third try, taking us into the break at 15-19.
With the conditions now in MV’s favour, the team came out fighting in the second half, making substantial inroads into Bolton half.
However, a turnover resulted in a breakout by the Trotters (look it up). And while some dogged MV defence held the opposition out near the MV line, a quick turn of the thumbscrews earned Bolton a penalty. Seizing the opportunity and moving the ball wide led to a well worked try, taking the score to 15-24.
Clearly under pressure, MV found themselves in what was an unusual situation in what has been a testing season.
Undeterred, the lads skilfully strung phase after phase together; never panicking or looking for the miracle pass, rather driving down field with control and accuracy. The pressure bore dividends as a gap opened, allowing Elias to sprint through unopposed, upping the points to 20-24.
With all eyes on the clock and ears straining for the final whistle, MV made a last valiant push, working their way down field and forcing penalties from the opposition.
MV’s beautifully functioning lineout and strong carrying through the centre, took us within spitting distance of the Bolton tryline. Another penalty and a quick tap and pass saw Lewis score the ball squarely under the posts, taking MV ahead at 25-24.
To seal the deal, Charlie W shrugged off the pressure; cooly converting the try and signing off the scoreline at 27-24.
The referee’s last blast brought cheers, tears and much jubilation, with TMV U16s winners once more - a fitting end to not only this season, but to the team’s Junior rugby careers.
Next stop Colts. BRING IT ON!!!
