The format for the day was 4 x 15-minute quarters, with the aim of giving all 21 players valuable game time ahead of our upcoming County Cup fixtures. A number of combinations were tested, with the coaching team keen to see how the lads would cope against a strong Creighton side who had caused us problems in our previous meeting.
The first quarter set the tempo for the remainder of the game, with the aggression and organisation of the defence particularly impressive. Captain Noah Gruner led from the front, supported by centre George Johnson and front-row forward Jimmy Wilson. Debutant Talhaa made some excellent tackles and showed great potential, and we look forward to seeing his continued development within the squad.
The scrum was dominant throughout the match. Jimmy Wilson, Junior, James Cartmell and Bobby Stewart rotated through the front row, showing excellent work rate both in the set piece and around the park.
James Hattrick stepped up to organise the lineout, which remains a work in progress but functioned well throughout the game. Harry Benson and Charlie Sams provided strong options in the air, competing well from James Cartmell’s reliable throws.
The backs were also heavily rotated, allowing different combinations to develop. Stan Bardsley and Alfred Grave shared the scrum-half role, providing quick service and helping maintain a high tempo throughout the game.
Further out, Robert Maguranyanga and George Johnson combined well in the wide channels. Marco Walsh and Jacob Palmer rotated between stand-off and centre, both looking to move the ball quickly and showing accuracy from the boot.
It was great to see Thomas Downie return for his first game of the season. He made an immediate impact, scoring a great try after linking well with Jacob Palmer in the wide channels.
Having a squad of this size puts the team in a strong position heading into our next competitive fixture away at Kendal on Sunday 1st November.
Training is Thursday 17:30–19:00.

Try Scorers:
N. Gruner
T. Downie

Conversions
J. Palmer
M. Walsh

Team photo courtesy of Ben Challis