TraffordMVRFCC

 

A nice long walk to the pitch was a warm-up in itself, but a short, sharp run through got us match ready. One thing we've done well lately is start matches with some high intensity, and this was no different. Some good early territory gave us the momentum we needed, and we scored a couple of tries which was what we deserved. Tom Shepard getting himself a first-half hat trick before going off injured was the impact we needed from a back line that were organised and played as a unit. This 2nd team lately have been playing like a unit and defending together as a team and it's given our defence a great edge. Some strong forward runs from Eccles forced a lot of tackles all over the pitch, and some great turnovers and field position followed. After a strong maul try from Eccles that was hard to stop, we still had some work to do to see the half out, and we were able to get to half-time with a decent lead, 24-5.

 

Some decisions and actions weren't too favourable in the first half and tensions were raising, with a yellow card being given to an Eccles player shortly before, half-time was welcomed. We knew we needed to not let tempers overshadow what was a strong performance so far. This being our focus was the right thing to do seemingly, as our 2nd half was controlled and we were able to create a lot of chances. Another yellow card and a red card given to Eccles players helped our play plenty. All replacements were needed throughout the match, and they provided great energy in the 2nd half which gave us a very strong full 80 minutes. Eccles never gave up and made us work for our territory and our metres made, support lines were fantastic from MV and some lovely tries were scored thanks to creativity from our backs, leading to tries from Dan Clark, Adam Mason and Joe Walls which put some distance between MV and Eccles. Eccles scored another try late on with a brilliant line ran from their back row. After some more back and forth, an MV uncontested scrum gave us the ball to put it out of play, full time whistle blown 59-12.

 

Another full team display, individuals are on the scoresheet and fully deserved to be, but every single player worked hard to create the opportunities for tries - a great effort from everybody. A great match to round off the 2s 2025. Rest up everyone and enjoy the weeks off, then hit the ground running in 2026!

 

Much love - Gotta love MV

 

Final score: 59-12

 

Tries: T Shepard x3 A Mason x2 D Clark x2 L Ryan x1 J Walls x1

 

Conversions: L O'Shea x6 J Parker x1

 

MOTM: Malachy Barnes DOTD: Joe Walls