Keswick start their campaign in the Cumbria League Cup

A good size crowd waited with anticipation for the start of the new season as the players of both sides took the field. They were not to be disappointed, as they witnessed an open, high scoring game.

The first try came from a strong break on the 22 area by Andy Wallace, Keswick's evergreen veteran full-back. The conversion was missed, five nil to Keswick. The game ebbed and flowed as Windermere put in a strong defensive spell over the next 15 minutes. Keswick forwards were beginning to dominate with strong runs and drives from Aaron Thompson and Carrick Wharmby alongside Mike Tait. A great take at the line out by Karl Smythe and fast hands along the back line lead to Oliver MacPherson's first try on 20 minutes. The conversion was just missed by Andy Muir. Keswick 10 Windermere nil.

The third try came five minutes later after a good line break by Andy Wallace galloping in for his second try. Again the conversion was just missed, Keswick 15 Windermere nil. At this stage of the match, Keswick were totally dominant and scored three more tries before half time. The first came on 29 minutes after good support from Louis Thompson saw him go in near the corner. Andy Muir converted to take the score to 22 nil. The next try came on 37 minutes from a front peel at the plane out expertly delivered the score for Louis Lindsey who finished well. The final try of the first half came on the stroke of half-time after a bustling run by James Benson. 32 nil to Keswick.

The second-half started with Keswick allowing Windermere back into the game. Led by their skilful fly half, Windermere fashioned a score through their open side wing forward to come back into the game. This sparked some life back into Keswick, which then saw tries through Ollie MacPherson, Louis Thompson and a speedy Ryan Weir. One try was converted by Thompson. The score had now moved on to 44 pts to 5. Windermere added one more try before Jake Winter wrapped up the scoring with an excellent try on his first team debut. Final score Keswick 53 Windermere 10.

Overall, this was a good start to the season from Keswick who showed some signs of rustiness after the off-season but who also showed glimpses of skilful play. There will be tougher opposition as the season progresses, but this was a satisfactory start for all. An enjoyable game for Keswick supporters and one which gives optimism for the season ahead.