Keswick travelled to Kendal with low numbers (13) but were optimistic about their chances. The game was played in artic conditions with a large amount of snow on the surface of Kendals 4G pitch. With driving rain making the prospect of an expansive game impossible.

Kendal would score 2 quick trys one of which was converted to establish a 12 point lead after only a few minutes. The Keswick players struggling to adapt to the conditions did have a few bright spots but handling was proving near impossible with the many dropped balls quickly being engulfed in icy snow. Against a much improved Keswick defence Kendal would however score 2 further trys take a 26-0 lead at half time.

The second half was much more even with Keswick scoring a try through a strong close range carrying from George Johnson.
With only one recognised front row forward available Johnson stepped up to play loose head prop. Encouraging was the fact that he saw this as a challenge and it only meant that he had a different position to stand in at scrum time.

Forward of the Match Junior was also playing a slightly different role today as line out thrower. After a shaky start he took a little of the pace off his throw and started to accurately find his team mates. He also showed great skill in the set scrum which was at times under pressure by hooking the ball cleanly back to Alfred Grave at 9 allowing the Keswick backs to launch attacks. The backs defended well in the wide channels with special mention to Robert Maguranyanga and Joseph Giddings. They kept fighting throughout the game trying to nullify Kendals pacey outside backs. This was not easy due to the large pitch, Keswick only having 13 players and Kendals fresh legs from the bench.
Kendal would score 2 further trys late on in the second half when conditions really started to affect some of the team. The full time whistle was welcome in the end.

Jacob Palmer was awarded back of the Match for a second game running. His decision making and clever kicks to relieve pressure were excellent. It wasn't a day to be an outside back but they all linked well and tried to play rugby in the correct area of the pitch dictated by the conditions.

The coaching team were impressed that at no time the lads gave up. The big lesson learned was that ball retention is key. Having put a team out over the half term break with around a dozen unavailable shows we are starting to develop strength in depth. The lads are looking forward to the open training session on Thursday afternoon and hopefully a decent number can attend.