2006-07 Season Summary
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P W D L For Ag Pts Position
2nd XV 22 11 2 9 337 379 57 5th Miller Homes Division 3 North
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Saturday 14th April 2007
Fylde 18 v Bolton 3
The day didn't start well, an exploded tire on the way to Fylde was changed in quick time by our resident team mechanic. While the tyre was being changed, many of the team also abandoned their cars and played an impromptu game of 'throw the ball as hard as you can at someone who's not looking'. Whilst being reasonably entertaining I nearly had to retire from the field of play with a serious nut injury.
We got to Fylde and it was hot, damn hot, real hot... infact it was hotter than the sun - and thats no word of a lie.
Bolton started off well - pushing Fylde hard, and got the first score of the game in the form of a penalty - converted after some delay by Matt Hurst, one day he'll figure out how the kicking tee works! From this point the heat seemed to take its toll on the team more or less immediately and the fitness of Fylde started to show (that'll be me doing some running over the summer!). Things went from bad to worse and through the course of the game Bolton lost both Dave 'Swinging Arm' Hulme and Lloyd ''Never playing 2nd row again my backs killing me'' Green to injury. Hulme left the field muttering that ''stepping should be banned in rugby'' however several onlookers commented after the game that the only step they'd seen him take was forwards! Despite a reshuffle Bolton never looked convincing and although they held their own for a while, with back row Lee Mc making a cutting break through the centre of the field and unfortunately being held up over the line, the win never appeared to be within reach for a misfiring Bolton.
Bolton then retired to the club house to get in some much needed drinking time. Prop forward JP ''step to one side and let them fly right by'' Singleton got more excited about the ''wonderful, amazing'' beer on offer in the Fylde clubhouse than he'd seemed all day!!! And as for Hurst, he retired home to the comfort of his bedroom muttering something about the high standard of the Fylde players other halfs!!!
When we arrived back to the Bolton clubhouse it was disappointing to note that many of the second team had retired home rather than stay out for a beer at what had become the more or less official end of season do. Still, the team members who had stayed out never let their heads drop and collectively consumed enough beer to make it seem that the whole team was out. Its been an 'interesting' season, with lots of ups and down however the 2nd team has managed to carve themselves out a hard fought 5th place finish. I look forward to next year and the opportunity to seriously contend for a higher placed league position.
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17th March 2007
Preston Grasshopper 5s 10 Bolton 2nd XV 14
Good afternoon Rugby fans, Stand in reporter Phil Caswell in for missing Dave Hulme to report on Bolton travelled to play against Preston Grasshoppers. Before a disappointing result from England on the weekend, an understrength Bolton 2nds travelled to Preston to face the grasshoppers and hopefully give the people of Bolton something to smile about! Starting off with only fourteen men, Bolton were looking down the barrel of a difficult afternoon! The match started well on what seemed like quite a good pitch with early exchanges of possession from both side failing to provide an great result. Strong work from pack members Plimmer, Parrish and Hardman, secured the ball that Stuart Paul was looking for to execute his trademark up and under. Centres Caswell and Ryan chased well and put the Hoppers defence under pressure, a poor tap back from their centre allowed Caswell to hack the ball forward to for Bolton's winger to chase and beat the hoppers fullback to the line. Paul missed the difficult conversion, 5-0. Hoppers are not a team to take being behind at home lightly, and came back strong in Bolton's face. Stalwart defending all round from Bolton, in particular from winger Will Swift, was simply not enough to prevent hoppers crossing. The conversion missed, 5-5. Again Hoppers entrenched themselves in the beleaguered Bolton's half, and finally managed to work the overlap and defeat Bolton's defence once again With Caswell failing to tackle the Hoppers winger in time as he went over in the corner. with the conversion missed, the half ended shortly afterwards with the score line at 10-5, not reflecting Bolton's dogged determination and commitment.
The second half began, with Si Walsh having arrived, with Bolton up to full strength and full of renewed vigour. the wind now in their favour, Bolton
looked to let the kicking of Stuart Paul dig them out of trouble when required. Hoppers appeared to have lost their wish to fight for the game and hold on to their lead. Bolton, not wishing to miss this un-characteristic lull from their opponents, hit hard. Excellent line-out control from Quegan and fast thinking from Ash Cooper at no. eight, gave the reds the impetus needed to head back up the pitch. great mauling and fast to the rucks with support coming from all areas of the pitch began to force the errors from Hoppers as they began to visibly tire. Three excellent penalties from Paul gave Bolton a narrow lead, which a score from the opposition could easily destroy. It was therefore, the reliable strong tackling that has been a hallmark of recent matches to which Bolton looked to hold off the ever dangerous Hoppers from ruining Bolton's day. The match ended 14-10 to Bolton as good form continued and they achieved what England could not, at least there was some rejoicing in that corner of a Preston field that is forever Bolton!
Next week our usual intrepid reporter should be back to give the commentary as Bolton travel, again, to Fleetwood.
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10th March 2007
Vale of Lune 2s 10 Bolton 2nd XV 26
With no first team game, the seconds boosted by the return of several players went to north Lancaster to face a Vale of Lune team which were one place below Bolton. Hoping to consolidate a top 5 finish at the end of the season Bolton were up for this game, and from the kick off the hard tackles rained in! However it was VOL who scored first as Bolton defended well, great hits by Jamie Henderson and Stephen Beesley ment that VOL could only score in the corner. 5 – 0 as conversion missed. This motivated Bolton even more, but ill discipline put them on the back foot. Once the game settled down, Bolton began to show why they are one of the best teams in the league. As Bolton pack marched forward VOL gave a penalty away. Quick thinking from Mike Singleton saw him run across the pitch around the slow moving defence and pass to full back Simon Walsh who went over in the corner. Chris Turner missed the conversion 5 – 5. Bolton now saw that this game was there for the taking and began to dominate. The second try came as the backs received good line out ball from Alex Quegan, neat passing along the backline found Jez Rees on the outside of his man, Rees powered on, a great step on the fulkback sent him under the posts. Chris Turner converting, 5 – 12 to the visitors. There was no let up now as Bolton continued the pressure. With Quegan dominating the line the forwards were driving the ball forward. This released the backs with only last ditch tacking from VOL preventing more tries. However, Bolton did score to more tries as both centres Mathew Hurst and Phil Caswell powered through the opposition and touched down under the posts. Chris Turner converted, half time score 5 – 26.
The second half was less eventful in terms of points, but the action kept coming. VOL looked to put the early pressure on and as Bolton defended superbly, Fly Half Dave Hulme spoke out of term one too many times to the referee and was sin binned. VOL now camped in the Bolton 22 tried everything to cross the line, but Bolton Held firm. As the match went on Bolton finally got some ball in the VOL half, but an attempted drop goal from Hulme, although looking good missed the target. VOL continued the pressure and Bolton found themselves back to 14 men as Phil Caswell was sin binned for Bolton being consistently offside. VOL this time took their chance and their winger went over in the corner. Missed conversion 10 – 26. The final minutes were played out and Bolton were victorious! Next week Bolton travel to Preston for another tough clash.
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3rd March 2007
Bolton 2nd XV 24 Leigh 5s 22
Due to the fact Tongy will utterly down play one of the tries of the season with " Bolton scored first with a well worked try", I'm writing the match report. Suffice to say I scored the try but we'll get to that bit soon! A glorious day shone upon the spring filled meadows of Avenue Street on Saturday, with the visit of League leaders Leigh. Beaten only once in their 17 matches to date Leigh were strong favourites, however they soon realised they were in for a hell of a game! Injured captain Paddy 'bad knee' McGrath cobbled together a strong team with several third team players making the jump up to the seconds. Evergreen prop Dave O'Byrne gave the pack some well needed experience and the return of Stuart Paul to inside centre was to be a master stroke.
The game started with Leigh pressing. With their humongous pack driving hard at the Bolton line, however massive defense led by the impressive Matt Parrish was blunting the forages forward. Even Leigh's 20 plus stone prop was being denied yards and Leigh's frustration at Bolton's mean defense was showing. Paul kicked astutely and Bolton survived the first 15 minutes to keep it scoreless. A penalty infringement 40 meters from Leigh's try line set the platform for Bolton's first try and what a cracker. With his shoulder firmly back in place, Fly-Half Dave Hulme conjured a piece of wizzardry not even JK Rowling of Harry Potter fame could muster in her over active imagination. Hulme took a quick tap penalty and ran at the defence, with support outside him Hulme threw a dummy and jinked through. With the impressive Leigh full back to beat, Hulme had two choices; kick in the turbo and power around said full-back or float a delicate chip over his head and gather and score. Considering the first option was ridiculous as Hulme has all the speed of an asthmatic slug, on crutches, in treacle...he chipped over, the ball bounced kindly (although Hulme convinced few that he intentionally back spun the ball!) and he gathered to score under the posts. Paul converted 7-0. Leigh responded immediately, with a soft try under Bolton's posts to make it 7-7. The game then became a stalemate as each team battered away at the opposition defence but to no avail. However with minutes remaining in the first half Bolton hit Leigh hard. Great recycling of the ball by the forwards saw the backs attack, play broke down and flanker Ash Cooper and hooker Leigh McDermott were there in a flash to secure ball. However little did Leigh know that McDermott was about to hit them with his obligatory try. McDermott picked up the ball from the ruck and flew blindside. He outpaced the winger and the three covering tacklers all went high on the Bolton powerhouse...when will this league learn, "YOU DONT TACKLE BIG McD UP TOP!". McDermott was now in open field with the outside centre to beat who was trundling across. Much like a young gazelle playfully bounding the plains of the Serengeti, McDermott gracefully made his way to the posts. Paul converted 14-7. The half came and Bolton knew the game was there for them!
The second half started well, great defence again blunted Leigh's early salvos and Bolton again hit back like the master counter-punching boxer.
Spilt ball by Leigh was gobbled up by outside centre Caswell. The extremely deceptive pace of Caswell kicked in...or was it the deceptive lack of pace of Leigh's backs?...anyway whichever, Caswell eventually went the 70m to score under the posts in what seemed like an eternity! Paul added the extras 21-7. Leigh then hit back hard, true league leaders find a way of getting back into matches and Leigh were no different. A sustained period of pressure saw Leigh score, luckily enough the Leigh ten couldn't have kicked a conversion if the posts were 10 miles apart and Leigh trailed 14-12, However, Leigh continued to pressurise Bolton's line and scored two more tries to take the lead 22-21. With five minutes to go most teams would have wilted to defeat and said we pushed them close, but not the second team. Urged on by the screaming Hulme Bolton fought their way to the Leigh 22 and the experience of O'Byrne shone through as he picked and drove, inducing a penalty from Leigh which Paul cooly converted. Bolton led 24-22. The next two minutes saw Bolton defend manfully and win an exciting encounter. With bodies battered and bruised Bolton walked off with the best victory of the season! Next week sees Bolton go to Vale of Lune who are one place below. Another hard game is a certainty, will the result be the same???
24th March 2007
Fleetwood 2s 21 Bolton 2nd XV 5
Bolton travelled to top of the league Fleetwood who have secured promotion last weekend. After several great performances Bolton were looking to continue this run. However, straight from the kick off Bolton were on the back foot. Only good defence stopped Fleetwood scoring. Bolton’s defence was looking strong and began to get back into the game, although Fleetwood took the lead with a penalty. The rest of the first half saw Fleetwood run in 2 tries as they got round the outside of the Bolton backs with quick ball and good running lines. Bolton did come close to scoring but Fleetwood defended well. Half time 15 – 0
The second half started in much the same fashion as Fleetwood put pressure on. However they could not score as due to a collective Bolton defence. Bolton look to come back into the game and great drives from Lloyd Green and Pete Rob push Bolton up the pitch. Bolton’s first time in the Fleetwood twenty two ended in a score. A great maul from a line out was driven towards the line. As Fleetwood concentrated on stopping the maul, Captain Alex Quegan peeled off to score. Stuart Paul missed the conversion, 15 – 5. Bolton went looking for more points but failed to produce. Fleetwood got two more penalties but failed to cross the line, which was the first time at home this season they had not scored a try in a half. Final score, 21 – 5.
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A glorious day shone upon the spring filled meadows of Avenue Street on Saturday, with the visit of League leaders Leigh. Beaten only once in their 17 matches to date Leigh were strong favourites, however they soon realised they were in for a hell of a game! Injured captain Paddy 'bad knee' McGrath cobbled together a strong team with several third team players making the jump up to the seconds. Evergreen prop Dave O'Byrne gave the pack some well needed experience and the return of Stuart Paul to inside centre was to be a master stroke. The game started with Leigh pressing. With their humongous pack driving hard at the Bolton line, however massive defense led by the impressive Matt Parrish was blunting the forages forward. Even Leigh's 20 plus stone prop was being denied yards and Leigh's frustration at Bolton's mean defense was showing. Paul kicked astutely and Bolton survived the first 15 minutes to keep it scoreless. A penalty infringement 40 meters from Leigh's try line set the platform for Bolton's first try and what a cracker. With his shoulder firmly
back in place, Fly-Half Dave Hulme conjured a piece of wizzardry not even JK Rowling of Harry Potter fame could muster in her over active imagination. Hulme took a quick tap penalty and ran at the defence, with support outside him Hulme threw a dummy and jinked through. With the impressive Leigh full back to beat, Hulme had two choices; kick in the turbo and power around said full-back or float a delicate chip over his head and gather and score. Considering the first option was ridiculous as Hulme has all the speed as a asthmatic slug, on crutches, in treacle...he chipped over, the ball bounced kindly (although Hulme convinced few that he intentionally back spun the ball!) and he gathered to score under the posts. Paul converted 7-0. Leigh responded immediately, with a soft try under Bolton's posts to make it 7-7. The game then became a stalemate as each team battered away at the opposition defence but to no avail. However with minutes remaining in the first half Bolton hit Leigh hard. Great recycling of the ball by the forwards saw the backs attack, play broke down and flanker Ash Cooper and hooker Leigh McDermott were there in a flash to secure ball. However little did Leigh know that McDermott was about to hit them with his obligatory try. McDermott picked up the ball from the ruck and flew blindside. He outpaced the winger and the three covering tacklers all went high on the Bolton powerhouse...when will this league learn, "YOU DONT TACKLE BIG McD UP TOP!". McDermott was now in open field with the outside centre to beat who was trundling across. Much like a young gazelle playfully bounding the plains of the Serengeti, McDermott gracefully made his way to the posts. Paul converted 14-7. The half came and Bolton knew the game was there for them!
The second half started well, great defence again blunted Leigh's early salvos and Bolton again hit back like the master counter-punching boxer. Spilt ball by Leigh was gobbled up by outside centre Caswell. The extremely deceptive pace of Caswell kicked in...or was it the deceptive lack of pace of Leigh's backs?...anyway whichever, Caswell eventually went the 70m to score under the posts in what seemed like an eternity! Paul added the extras 21-7. Leigh then hit back hard, true league leaders find a way of getting back into matches and Leigh were no different. A sustained period of pressure saw Leigh score, luckily enough the Leigh ten couldn't have kicked a conversion if the posts were 10 miles apart and Leigh trailed 14-12, However, Leigh continued to pressurise Bolton's line and scored two more tries to take the lead 22-21. With five minutes to go most teams would have wilted to defeat and said we pushed them close, but not the second team. Urged on by the screaming Hulme Bolton fought their way to the Leigh 22 and the experience of O'Byrne shone through as he picked and drove, inducing a penalty from Leigh which Paul cooly converted. Bolton led 24-22. The next two minutes saw Bolton defend manfully and win an exciting encounter. With bodies battered and bruised Bolton walked off with the best victory of the season! Next week sees Bolton go to Vale of Lune who are one place below. Another hard game is a certainty, will the result be the same???
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Sat 24th February 2007
Southport 2s 24 Bolton 2nd XV 15
Bolton second team travelled the long distance to Southport. Due to traffic they had to start the game with only 14 men. Unfortunately this allowed Southport to get the upper hand as Bolton struggled out wide. Good tackling from Lloyd Green and the other Bolton players kept Southport out. Southport continued to pressure and eventually it led to the first try. Bolton
responded quickly as a great chase from the kick off led to Southport conceding a kickable penalty. Mathew Hurst slotting the kick to make the score 7 – 3. However, it was Southport who got the best of Bolton as they ran in 3 more tries. As Bolton finally got up to 15 players at the end of the half, they began to show their quality. Newly on the pitch Dave Hulme kicking ahead, great chase by Mathew Hurst enabled him to get the ball and the race to the line was on. However as Hurst was chased down his pop ball to Mike Maccoy failed to go to hand. Half time 24 – 3.
Bolton started the second half in confident style as they pushed straight on the attack. Mathew Parrish and Alex Quegan making great runs while Hulme, Hurst and Phil Casswell were all a constant threat and it was Casswell who managed to get the first try as he burst down the wing, managing to stay out of touch and score, conversion missed. Southport look to up their game and went to score in the corner however full back Jez Rees and Quegan put the winger into touch. Bolton continued to spur on and got the second try. A great run by Green saw him knock a Southport player clean off his feet with one hand as he charged up the field. Two more carries and Southport were stretched. Hulme found Maccoy who picked a great angle to score under the posts. Hurst converted 24 – 15. Bolton pushed on but could make up points lost in the first half. Final Score 24 – 15.
10th February 2007
BAE Warton 9 Bolton 2nd XV 17
Bolton seconds travelled in this rearranged fixture to face a tough Warton side. Having lost to Warton in the cup, but won in the league already this season, Bolton were looking to make it two wins in the league. With captain Pad-dog put down by injury, the arm band fell to the newly named Paul ‘Tonka’ Tonge (don’t ask). With match preparation in one car down to talking about the art of sailing, the best chick flicks ever made, and the fact that the scenic root was far superior to just going on the M61, some players were trying not to think about the match ahead. The thought of tackling ‘big Jeff’ however had some chomping at the bit! Big Dave and Jamie ‘slow arms’ Henderson were fully ready for the show down. The match kicked off with Tonka deciding Bolton should play into the wind in the first half. Bolton started the brighter putting in big tackles to keep Warton pegged back. The forwards working well as a unit were driving the ball on, and Bolton’s dominance at set pieces was giving great ball to scrum half Craig Lewis and fly half Mike Singleton. The dead lock was broke however as Bolton conceded a penalty in front of their posts. It was duly slotted over to give Warton a 3 – 0 lead. Bolton however continued to surge forward, Alex Quegan jinking through tackles and good runs from Alex Sugden and Simon Walsh nearly saw Bolton hit straight back. But it was Warton who scored through a second penalty in front of the posts. Warton kicking penalties certainly indicated the great defence Bolton had put up as they saw no other way through. Bolton looked dangerous on the break and especially down the blind side. Good running and hands saw Alex Quegan supporting to score Bolton’s first try of the afternoon. A tricky conversion missed 6 – 5. This lifted Bolton to keep pressing forward, the forwards were winning everything, especially in the rucks, where Paul Sutcliffe and David Ormes were first to everything. The backs when released were also causing problems as Matt Hurst and Phil Caswell (reunited at last!) looked to get past their slower counter parts. Bolton’s second try came from the forwards again, as good line out put Bolton on the front foot. Great clearing out saw quick ball driven on, leading to Mathew Parrish going over in the corner. Another tricky conversion into the wind missed 6 – 10. The final points of the half went to Warton, as they kicked another penalty in front of the posts. Half time 9 – 10.
The second half saw Bolton get on the front foot straight away. Bolton using the wind and kicking to the corners, put Warton under pressure. With the scores tight, Bolton look to do the same and began to maul. 2 of these both from 5 metre line outs saw the Bolton pack go other the line in a 5 minute spell. Both times the referee said he did not see it and Mathew Parrish, Paul Sutcliffe and the Bolton pack were left unrewarded. Bolton’s frustration allowed Warton to creep back into the game although Bolton held firm. Great tackling, if not sometimes illegal, kept Warton at bay. Bolton looking for the final try to kill of the game picked up the pace through their half backs. A great run saw wing Ryan Wignall kick ahead only for the covering Warton wing to get there first. The decisive try for Bolton eventually came as Bolton again attacked down the blind side. Quick thinking from Craig Lewis set Paul Tonge free. Side stepping (training technique) one Warton player and heading for the line. With the full back to beat, Tonge unselfishly passed inside to four supporting Bolton players. Paul Sutcliffe the scorer! Conversion scored by Singleton, 9 – 17. Warton pushed forward but the game was up and Bolton came out much deserved winners.
It was great win considering the past 3 weeks and moved Bolton to forth in the league. It was also the first time Warton had not scored a try at home all season. Next game in two weeks away to Southport due to the withdrawal of De La Salle from the league.
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3rd February 2007
Bury 2s 23 Bolton 2nd XV 7
Bolton travelled the 10 miles to play local rivals Bury. With the fog holding back, the game went a head. Bolton look to right some wrongs from their last few weeks and did so. Set pieces worked well for Bolton especially the lineouts as Alex Quegan to good ball and pressured the Bury lineout. Defence was much better, although Bolton could not stop a driving maul for the 1st try. Bolton continued to push forward in serch of points but every time got pegged back. A further penalty and try from Bury left it 13 – 0 at the break.
Bolton look to respond quick in the second half. Good ball to the backs saw Jez Rees make a break, however his pass could not go to hand. Bolton the lost Captain McGrath to injury and had to play out the game with 14. However Bolton struck as a loose ball was picked up by the ever improving Phil Caswell. Caswell rounded the winger and spinted for the line evading a last ditch tackle. Conversion scored 13 – 7 to Bury. Bolton looked in search of a winning try, however it was Bury who scored and converted. A penalty made the final score 23 – 7.
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27th January 2007
West Park St Helens 59 Bolton 2nd XV 10
Luck was definitely not on Bolton’s side as 4 late cry off’s meant they travelled to West Park with only 14 players. However the team knowing the odds staked against them rallied together and tried to play some rugby. The difference came as Bolton’s set pieces were put under pressure from the start as a seven man pack was controlled by a much bigger forward unit. The pressure on the forward meant the backs were left exposed to good moves from the opposition. West Park began to cut lines trough the Bolton defence and were 49 – 0 before Bolton got a deserved response for their efforts just before half time. A quick tap penalty was driven up by Mathew Parrish. As Park infringed again another quick tap penalty saw Paul Tonge take the ball on. As he was being tackled Paul popped it to an on running Kevin Mcgill who bashed through the West Park defence to score. Good direct rugby. 49 – 5.
The second half saw Bolton take encouragement from the score and began to take the ball to the West Park forwards. Several times Bolton came close to scoring as James Singleton organised phase after phase. Eventually the try did come, as broken field led to fly half Ryan Lewis outpacing to West Park players and passing inside to James Singleton who ran in at the corner. 49 – 10. The rest of the half was quite even, although West Park scored 2 late tries. Final score 59 – 10, a disappointing day but Bolton can take heart from this fixture.
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Saturday 20th January 2007
Bolton 2nd XV 26 Sedgley Park 3s 30
Bolton seconds starting the game 7th in the league came up against a team equal on points and one place above them. Everyone expected a close game, however Bolton were forced into eight changes due to injuries occurred in last weeks hard fought victory. The huge change in personnel was clear to see as Sedgley got on the front foot straight away and pushed over from 5 metres. Clearly shell shocked Bolton knew they had a mammoth task on their hands. Playing into the wind however this was going to be tough. Sedgley looked to use the advantage of the wind (something we will see used to its full advantage later!) as they went over 2 more times in the first 15 minutes. With all conversions missed due to wind, Sedgley led 15-0. Sedgley’s lead should have been more but for strong defending from Bolton, Kevin McGill and Mathew Parrish putting in the big hits. As Bolton’s defence started to impose itself, turnovers began to happen and Bolton started to get moving forward. With the backs beginning to see some ball they manage to pass round the Sedgley defence. Will Swift skipping round his opposite number and making good metres. Bolton’s first try came as Bolton broke into the Sedgley twenty two; Mike Singleton broke the line and ran in under the posts. Mike Singleton converted to make it 15-7 to Sedgley at the break.
The second half saw Bolton with the wind at their backs, as Bolton had been spoiling Sedgley’s lineout, Bolton’s backs kicked to the corners to pin Sedgley back. This is where the wind was used to its full potential. As the lineout on Sedgley’s five metre line was disrupted, the ball hit the deck and the big boot of JP Hardman kicked it over the Sedgley line. Like Storm from the X-men, JP hands were aloft and a tunnel of wind began to move him towards the ball. Hardman followed up his kick just to beat to Sedgley players to the ball. Conversion missed (as Chris Turner could not keep the ball straight), 15-12. Sedgley realised they had a game on again and began to respond, using the rolling maul to make metres up the field. Bolton had no answer and this led to Sedgley’s forth try, 20-12. With more injuries, Bolton lost two key forward as Alex Metcalfe and JP Hardman went off. Even with this Bolton bounced back and a good break by the backs led to Leigh McDermott scoring in the corner. Mike Singleton converted a very tough kick (no Chris Turner involvement), 20-19. Again Sedgley responded to Bolton’s come back by mauling the ball back up into Bolton’s half. Although Bolton’s forwards tried their hardest, the well practiced Sedgley machine went over for another try. Conversion missed, 25-19. With five minutes left, Sedgley thought they had won, however Mike Singleton scored the try of the day! Singleton received the ball from the ruck, he dummied to go wide and beat the Sedgley ten. As he went through the gap he shrugged of a Sedgley tackle and ran towards the full back. Side stepping the full back he then out paced the winger to the line! Fantastic. Singleton composed himself to slot the conversion, 26-25 to Bolton. With two minutes left Bolton looked to have won, just had to keep the ball. However, a scrum to Bolton was lost and Sedgley managed to find their centre and he powered over. Captain McGrath was devastated, as was the Bolton team. Final score - 30-26 to Sedgley.
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Saturday 13th Jauary 2007
Bolton 2nds 17 v BAE Warton 13 Written by regular and best selling author Dave 'Horatio' Hulme
We shall defend our pitch, whatever the cost may be, we shall fight them on the grass, we shall fight them on the mud, we shall fight them in the big dirty puddles and in the occasional patches of doggy-do, we shall fight;we shall never surrender." No not Mad Pad Dog the 2nd Teams captain pre match speech, but the editted stirring words of one of our eminent prime ministers, but never has a quote been so apt. On Saturday, hoping to maintain the recent winning streak and rise up the league, the seconds met the powerful BAE Warton in a match that was blood guts and thunder itself.
The seconds took to the fields of Avenue Street with spirits high as recent results put the seconds on top of the form league table. The match started off in spectacular fashion as BAE Warton tested Bolton's watertight defence by getting their big runners testing the line. Bolton held firm admist the early onslaught, early big hits from Ash Cooper and Dave 'One Armed Bandit' Hulme rocked the Warton onslaught. Even in the face of this early pressure Bolton chalked up. A big tackle from Marc 'Mr T' Burke coughed the ball from the Warton outside centre, quick thinking led Burke to put his knee 'on the line' as he hacked forward, unfortunately the Warton winger decided that his foot and knee were going in different directions. As Burke lay wounded number 8 Lee 'No Nicknames Needed' McDermott scooped the ball and brushed aside many to reach the whitewash to put Bolton up 5-0. Warton responded and pressurised Bolton and after an infringement bagged a penalty to make it 5-3. With Bolton down to 14 it was time to call on the big gun, and off stripped 'BIG' John Singleton and boy did Warton regret him coming on. Singy snr wrecked havoc all over the pitch as he rolled back the years to give a vintage display at number 8. Bolton back up to full power were begining to turn the screw. JP Hardman leading from the front was destroying the Warton front row and slowly it was looking to have worn down the Warton team. However credit where credit is due Warton were made of stern stuff and replied in the form of the hulking great big inside centre that crashed, swatted and shrugged 70m to score. 5-8. However much like the Incredible Hulk...'you wont like the second team when they are angry'...and boy did they get angry. A dubious decision denied Bolton a fair try. An astute piece of play saw the ball deflect off Warton into touch, quick thinking saw JP Hardman recieve a quick line out and feed Paul Tonge to score. However the linesman (of BAE Warton) claimed the ball had hit a camerman on the side line!!! So a quick throw in couldnt be taken...oh and it also came off Bolton anyway!!! Disappointed but not defeated Bolton took this and surged on finishing the half strongly.
The second half started and the first ten minutes seemed to seal Bolton's fate. Warton's Big Jeff rumbled into a Hulme tackle, then decided to dropped his not to puny frame onto the sqweeling flanker. With Hulme scrabbling around trying to remember the words to the famous song, the shoulder bones connected to the....arm bone...his shoulder popped back in but Hulme left the field. YOU WON THIS BATTLE BIG JEFF>>>BUT NOT THE WAR! (cue trumpets). What came next was the greatest 30 minutes in recent second team history. The Bolton lads dug deep, with men down, with all hope gone, with only a few bullets in the gun....they set about Warton. Wave after wave of attack ensued, forwards were hungry and recycled ball quickly, backs were incisive and clinical. Bolton chalked a score. Mike Singleton playing at fly half sparked the comeback as he put McDermott through a gap to nudge Bolton ahead, Meir converted. 12-8. Warton replied with a try, 12-13. With a peanlty deep in Bolton's half Singleton jr tapped and found a gap, he streaked through and jinked his way through. Hulme who at this point had hauled his backside out of the changing room had tears in his eyes at the beauty of Singleton's movement, but later found it was Paddy's tiger balm that he'd wiped into his eyes...Singleton drew the full back and young Michael McCoy was on hand to dive over to seal the victory 17-13. The final whistle sounded and Bolton chalked up their fifth straight victory!
The day eneded on a great note although at a price of several injuries, however the boys more than made up for it with a stirring performance. Bolton now find themselves in 7th place only three points behind 4th placed Oldham and with at least a game in hand on all above. Bolton's mighty defense has seen them only conceed 174 points in 14 matches...at an average of 14 (ish) per game...this kind of form will see them attain a healthy position once again.
Next week sees a mighty encounter with Sedgley Park, who are one place above on equal points...so a win is essential!
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Saturday 16th December 2006
Bolton 36 v Oldham 0
Saturday saw the continuation of the revival of Bolton seconds as they hosted 4th placed Oldham. With a pack resembling the group of reindeer, fed and honed on a strict diet of carrot and water, that pulls Santa's sleigh on Christmas Eve, Oldham looked like a handy outfit. However once kick off started they were made to look more like that big red suited man who gorges on mince pies and sherry, such was the quality of play. No team in the league would have coped with Bolton's start. With some familiar faces back in the fold Bolton set about the Oldham team like a giddy kid ripping open his christmas gifts. Marc 'Anger Management sessions for christmas please' Burke started brightly causing Oldham problems with his accute kicking game (yes Christmas miracles really do happen kids).
However after knocking on the door for five minutes Bolton were not rewarded until Burke slotted a penalty to make it 3-0. Bolton's pack were beginning to dominate and the young guns of Ash Cooper, Dave Ormes and Leigh Mcdermott were causing chaos. JP Hardman back in the side was turning the screw in the scrum and even trusty leader Paddy McGrath was catching the odd pass or two (good idea to get him those new hands for presents!). When the first try came...what a try it was. Slick hands from the backs saw the evergreen and versitile Dave Hulme burst through. His pass to McDermott was precision and the score was inevitable. Burke converted 10-0. Bolton just piled on the pressure. A penalty in Bolton's twenty two was quickly taken and Hulme fed fullback Simon 'Evil Kenivel' Walsh. Walsh gained many yards and kicked on and in the season of miracles flanker Paul Sutcliffe popped up to scoop and score. Reports are unconfirmed that Sutty was still on his way back from his last try but the fact he made 70 yards in the space of seconds is suspicious. The kick missed 15-0. However Bolton carried on...Paul Tonge was wrecking havoc and young Mark Crow becoming more of a force as the game went on and Oldham simply couldnt handle it. Slick recycling and quick hands put Hulme through a gap and he sped his merry way to score under the posts, kick converted 22-0. With the half drawing to a close and the Oldham team preparing for a second half fight back the game and Oldham appetite for the scrap was demolished by a Hulme-special. A little dink over the top by Burke was gently falling into the young Oldham wingers hands...McDermott and Hulme raced to see who could dial him first...McDermott being younger and faster got their first...Hulme being slower and wiser waited whilst the winger stepped...As the howls of dirty barstool rung out through the Haliwell crsip air Hulme answered several Oldham concerns that the tackle was high. However Hulme calmly argued the fact the a shoulder into the upper chest and unfortunately deflecting into the head is not a high tackle!!!
The half came to the close and Oldham trailed by 22-0. The 2nd half started much like the first ended and McDermott raced to make it another try, which was converted 29-0. Bolton should have piled on more but Paddy's constant talk of 'where to go on the night out' meant the focus went. The only notable second half incident saw Tonge making the sublime art of kicking a mockery as he put big 15 boot to small ball. As it rocketed 90 degrees upwards and about 10 yards forward all the great kickers of the past cried...Rob Andrew Grant Fox Michael Lyner Marc Burke. Tonge tried to plead innocence by saying the sun was in his eyes....yeah good excuse Tongy old boy. Bolton played out the remaining half at half pace to record a very comfortable win. Next week sees Bolton host Vale of Lune who lie one point and one place behind!!!
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Saturday 9th December 2006
BAE Warton 20 Bolton 2nd XV 17
Bolton’s second team travelled face Warton in a tie which would put the victor in the quarter-finals of the cup. Due to the weather the match was moved to neutral ground at Preston Arena. With a perfect pitch, it was set to be a good game of rugby and from the kick-off the match failed to disappoint. The game was end to end with both teams defending well. Boltons young back line led by fly-half Mike ‘senior’ Singleton, were putting in big tackles. However, indiscipline led to Warton scoring in the corner. Bolton responded well with the forwards making the hard yards and the backs getting round there opposite numbers. This led to the 1st Bolton try as Mike Singleton broke through the defense. His kick through was chased up by centre Ryan Wignall, who kicked the ball ahead and touched down! Simon Walsh converted to put Bolton 7-5 up. The match continued to go from end to end. Bolton’s defense held firm as Dave Evans, Paul Tonge and Captain Shaun McGrath put in big hits. Warton began to move the ball wide and this led to their second try as a mistake by 17 year old fullback Mike Maccoy let in the centre to score. In the process of the young fullback missing the ball he inadvertently got himself knocked out! As the rest of the player thought he was faking it, smiles soon turned to worry as nurse Wignall attended to the situation. Thankfully the young fullback walked off with a bad head, although he asked the incident not to be reported as “I don’t want my dad to find out as I won’t be able to stay at my girlfriends!” I’m sure he was thinking that his girlfriend would sort out his other bad head! The half continued to be end to end and Bolton were soon back on the attack. Another quick break by Mike Singleton down the right saw Bolton get behind the Warton defense, his pass found Marcus Odonohoe who touched down. Half time 12-10 to Bolton.
The second half started much as the first finshed. Warton hit back with a try through their big forward ‘big Jeff’, not even big Dave or Big Tonge Dog could stop him! 15-12. Bolton realising the opposition was getting tired began to push forward, as the realised they needed points. Simon Walsh pushed a penalty just wide of the upright. Warton looked dangerous on the break and just as they thought the had score, Bolton fullback Simon Walsh kicked clear. His chase outpaced the turning Warton defense as Walsh collected his own kick, turned the full back inside out and scored under the posts! However, with his knees wabbling, Walsh was unable to convert and his kick hit the post! 17-15 to Bolton. As all good matches go there is always a final twist! Bolton began to control the game and began to keep Warton in their twenty-two. Bolton almost scored as a quick tap penalty from Paul Tonge saw him come inches short of the line! Warton repelled all Bolton’s attempts to kill the game off and a quick tap of their own led to the backs breaking through a scoring in the corner, the final score 20-17. Bolton took heart from this game knowing the will meet Warton twice in January in the league and with more performances like this, more wins look on the cards!
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Saturday 2nd December 2006
Kendal 3s 0 Bolton 2nd XV 19
The 2nd team travelled to a windy Kendal to encounter a tem at the wrong end of the table, but not to be under estimated. Due to the length of trip and even earlier kick-off 2pm Bolton had very little warming up time, however from the first whistle Bolton’s young side pushed forward. The first half of the game was played in Kendal’s 22 as Bolton looked to take advantage of playing slightly down hill! Good surges from Dave Evans, Paul Sutcliffe and Paul Tonge were giving the Kendal defence a real test. Due to the dominance of the forwards, the backs enjoyed some ball and breaks by powerful wing Manesh Tailor almost saw Bolton cross the white wash. After 30 minutes of persistant pressure Bolton knew they had to score. Evans and Tonge drove the ball close to the line, with Kendal stretched Dave Hulme found Dave Meir who jinked over. Simon Walsh added the 2 points. Half time, Bolton 7-0 up.
With Bolton now going up hill the expectation was that Bolton would be on the back foot, however this was not the case. Fly Half Hulme used the wind to kick Bolton back into the Kendal 22 and pressure began to build again. It was not long before a Tailor drive coming off his wing was well supported by Sutcliffe and Tonge. Sutcliffe picked up from the ruck and drove over. Conversion missed. The game continued to be played in the Kendal 22. The 3rd try came as the forward pushed forward again sorry forgot who scored it! Conversion missed, 19-0 Bolton. Kendal then looked for a consolation but there forwards only found David Ormes and Dave Evans in fantastic tackling form! Evans tackling 4 Kendal players, one after the other! Final Score Kendal 0 Bolton 19.
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Sat 25th November 2006
Bolton 2nd XV 14 Fylde 3 Vikings 3
Bolton got back to winning ways with a strong performance against Fylde even though several regular players moved up to the first team.
Sat 11th November 2006
Oldham 2nds 19 Bolton 12
Wet, wild and windy....second team fantasies or the state of play at Oldham on Saturday...I'll let you decide! However Bolton seconds travelled to the foothills of the Peninnes to visist the rugby heartland that is Oldham. Hit by some cry-offs and late selection changes the seconds arrived at Oldham with several faces from last years colts and the obligatory appearance by Steve Fozzy Forrester and Marcu 'Elvis Hips' Rigby. Bolton playing into the strong wind in the first half contained Oldham with great defence. Marc Burke playing out of position at number eight was immense all day and showed the Oldham lads he wasn't going to give thenm an inch by snuffing out their early work. However it was Oldham who crossed first after constant pressure to lead 5-0. Bolton's response was fantastic. A great kick by Ryan Wignall gave put pressure on Oldhams's winger who had to conceed a 5 m line out. A less than straight throw was missed by the ref and fly half Dave Hulme fed winger Manny (sorry dont know his proper name) to crash under the posts, Burke added the extras. 5-7. With only a few minutes left and Bolton dreaming of playing down wind a lapse saw Oldham score and convert to give a half time of 12-5. Bolton were dealt an early blow in the second half as vice captain Alex Quegan had to leave the field with a shoulder injusry whilst in the motions of scoring a try. Down to 14 men Bolton carried the fight. However a kick by Hulme deep into Oldham territory was antastically scored by the Oldham full back as he jinked his way through for a great score. The extras added to make it 19-5. From this point on however it was all Bolton but the last pass just never stuck at all. However a quick tap to Tommy Lee saw him bulldoze thirty meters to score and give a final score of 19-12.
Sat 4th November 2006
Bolton 2nd XV 0 Fleetwood 46
Due to injuries Bolton were left short of their usual quality and struggled to gain momentum against the runaway leaders in their league. Fleetwood were strong from the start, having arrived early. Although Bolton defended bravely, with Dave Evans and Mathew Parrish putting in big hits, Fleetwood were too strong.
Saturday 28th October 2006
Lymm 3rds 8 Bolton 2nds 24
Wealth, filthy rich dripping in gold, lighting cigars with fifties wealth. Saturday saw Bolton's finest travel to millionaires row to take on Cheshire big fat cat neighbours Lymm in the renowned Halbro Trophy. Arriving early, with full team and directions to said club was a pleasing novelty for the second team as the months were rolled back and Captain Hulme once again spliced the main sail and steered the good ship seconds to a stirring victory. With the 5 mile trip to the pitch from the actual club negotiated, it was Bolton who started the strongest. Bolton's first ruck saw the mighty Lloyd Green take the ball off impressive Scrum Half Mike 'Stingy' Singleton and oh how the Lymm inside centre wished he'd not decided to take the 'big fella down'. Little did the unfortunate chap know that Green had been fed and bred in the South African wastelands, creating a juggernaut of a forward. As his hand crashed into the chest and fended him off back up the hill, Green had set the tone for the day as he crashed through. However Green's break came to no fruition as obviously the many hours of altitude training has loosened some synoptic nerve which attaches brain to ear as he failed to pick out any of the 5 support runners who were trailing him like a baying pack of wolves. Indeed this was not an isolated break as Bolton made line break after line break only to be thwarted at the last. In fact against the run of play it was Lymm who notched on the post first to score a try. 5-0. Bolton came back strong and the ever improving Paul Sutcliffe was wreacking havoc. Dont be fooled by his soft Brum drawl, inside lives a crazeed flanker who was raking up the yards. One break by him led to the first try. Sutcliffe outpaced the cover tackle to break the line....yes outpaced. Green's disease seemed to set in as Sutcliffe failed to hear Hulme screaming like a banshee for the inside ball to give the skip a stroll in try. With the fullback to beat, Sutcliffe was snagged by the brave tackler. Steaming in Tom Lee scooped the bits and a driving maul was formed and who ended up at the bottom with 5 points to their name....yes sweet readers...SUTCLIFFE! With man of the match Rory Murray slotting the extras Bolton led 5-7. The onslaught continued. Lymm switched tactics and tried to kill ball and rough up the Bolton pack but Bolton repelled. With Chris Turner now adding extra weight to the pack Bolton turned the screw. A fluid passage of passing by the backs saw ullback Greg Abbott fly in for a try. 5-12. Lymm replied slotting a penalty 8-12. However what was to adorn the sloping field of Lymm in the next two minutes was stuff of legend. They always say you know where you were when historic events, maybe even life changing events happen. The assassination of JFK, Man Landing on the Moon, 911 and Lloyd Green passing after a line break. A moment of such importance has added itself to the annals of history. Singleton caught a high bomb ten yards into Bolton territory, and shipped the ball on to fly half Dave Hulme. He drew the line and then lifted the most cultured, measured chip over the defense into the yawning chasim of Lymm's 22. The gasps of 'he isn't' wafted as Hulme sped on towards the ball. Noise abated as all ears seemed to mystically tune in Van Gellis's Chariots of Fire theme. Hulme raced forward again nudging the ball into the try area, with the young full back an estimated 12 years in the tank and at least 20 mph in speed could do nothing as Hulme dived to plant his big sweaty palm on the ball. YES he shouted punching the air...lucky b****** everyone else replied shaking their heads. Conversion missed Bolton led at the half 8-17.
The second half was a scrappier affair as tempers continued to flare and anger management candidate Marc Burke was causing Lymm problems. However Bolton were hitting hard. Massive hits by Alex Sugden, Murray, Hulme and Abbott were not giving the backs of Lymm any joy. Then came a true master class of steppery (made up word). Ala strictly come dancing Murray stepped not one, two but three players on his way to under the posts to score a magnificent try. With the points slotted Bolton led 8-24. However the match ended in acrimony as teams flared again and trouble raged, with the ref blowing for full time.
A good win against opponents in a division above was a deserved one. Well done to the boys who put on a good show. Next week sees a stern task with the visit of league leaders Fleetwood. Everyone needs to be available and confirm to ensure we put on a good performance. Goodnight!
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Saturday 21st October 2006
match postponed
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Saturday 14th October 2006
no game
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Saturday 7th October
Bolton 2nds 12 Bury 2nds 7
Get your bacon butties ready, your mugs of hot steaming tea and take a seat....the second team match report is back. Following last weeks disappointing result against De La Salle, Bolton 2nd XV gathered at the hallowed halls of Avenue Street in anticipation of cross town neighbours Bury. The bar area was a buzz of conjecture as the whispers of who would be filling the boots of Andy Leigh puzzled the masses. Like Einsenhower and Churchill plotting the downfall of the Nazi war machine, messiers Griffiths and McGrath combined their IQ to work out this conundrum. Sudoku it was not but after putting all the numbers in the right boxes it transpired that the collective brain power of the two 2nd team leaders had made their decision. Down to the dressing room the seconds were called, nervous faces on all...in entered McGrath and Griffiths....sat....like Simon Cowell and Sharon Osbourne....they announced the team....'Scrum Half....CHRIS TURNER. Faces contorted with shock Fly Half Dave Hulme felt the first pang of pain in his ribs and Number 8 Lloyd Green was on his mobile trying to book a flight back to the Serengeti. Fear not though avid readers because little did the Bolton lads know....this was a master stroke! With many faces in different positions Bolton took the feild. However a hienous pile of dog kack put the brakes on the start of the game...but Bolton had the answer in Matt Parrish. Like a seasoned shifter Paz scooped and deposited the offending items and the game began...well done Paz you did us proud lad! Bolton kicked off and started like the proverbial whirlwind. Forwards set ball and backs flowed as Bury struggled to repel the Bolton team. Centre Matt Hurst burst the line early on only to be denied by a last ditch tackle by Bury's full back. Tom Lee a power house in the pack was punching holes and Turner was making a mockery of the technicalities of scrum half. However it was 25 minutes into the match before Bolton broke the deadlock. Mark Crow launched a back ball lineout that was snapped up by flanker Leigh McDermott. McDermott accelerated away and bounced off would-be tacklers before crashing over to register the first points of the day. Turner attempted to add the extras...lets just leave it at that...5-0. Bolton continued to dominate, Green peeling off the pack into the backs was creating havoc and the fear in the Bury 10's eyes was clear as he was merciously forced inside time and again to the ravaging pack of Bolton's back row. Bury had little field position and Bolton's dominance was rewarded with another try from Fly Half Hulme. Not content in having played (and lets not make any mistake mastered) flanker inside and outside centre, wing and second row this year Hulme pulled on the number 10 shirt and in one dazzling moment put Bolton further ahead. Taking the ball Hulme dropped his shoulder jinking past the Bury inside centre, having realised he must now run Hulme opened his legs and kicked on. He rounded the cover tackler handed off the full back to score. The conversion bagged it was 12-0. Bolton continued and inside centre Alex Sugden was wrecking Bury's backline in a welcome return. Paul Sutcliffe was again having a strong game and improving his fitness with an all action display. The half time whistle was blown and Bolton had a handy lead.
The second half was a different story and Bolton feared another game slipping away. More shuffling of players saw Paz come into second row, Hurst to scrum half, Griffiths to hooker, Turner to prop....and so on and so forth. Bolton satrted slowly and Bury started to get a grip of the game. Their dominate line out set up a driving maul which was rewarded with a try. Bolton were defending stoutly and pushing bach all Bury had. With ten minutes left Bolton got to grips with the game again and a combination of Sugden and Hulme carved Bury open only for the final pass to go to ground. More great field position meant Bolton had good attacking ball. Crow, now playing scrum half, hit Hulme who fed Turner out wide. Turner went lateral and hit Davies with a stunning pass which deserved a try but Bury's full back to his credit pulled out a great hit. Time was against Bury and it caught them out as the refs whistle tooted across the plains of Halliwell. A much needed and on the evidence of the full 80 minutes deserved victory, was celebrated with much cheering. As Paddy and Nick led their troops off they dreamed this was the kick start of a run of victories...who knows. It was a good performance in patches and the lads who played out of position did very well. Unconfirmed reports have come to light that Chris Turner was seen shouting into his phone....'No... not a prop... I'm a scrum half Mr Robinson'....have fuelled another 'where is his best position debate ala Andy Farrell'. Finally following last weeks game a certain Mr T Lee from Bolton was disgusted that his try was not put into the Parthenon of rugby's classic tries...so here goes....Tom Lee hit the ball and due to the most shocking and half hearted attempts at tackles from 7 De La Salle players, the beast from the east...of Bolton....managed to stumble 70 yards to the line!..(will that do Tom!).
Saturday 30th September 2006
De La Salle 22 Bolton 2nd XV 14
Bolton 2nds travelled to rivals De La Salle for turned out to be a tough afternoon. However Bolton made the first half looked then surprisingly easy as they scored the only points of the half. Dave Hulmes silky run allowing him to cut through the opposition’s defence. Conversion scored. 7-0 The forwards then decided they would get in on the scoring with powerful rucking getting the team up to the opposition’s 5 meter line. This resulted in a powerful run from Tome Lee. Conversion scored. 14-0 at half time.
With the unexpected ease of the first half Bolton started the second half thinking it would be much of the same. However, the opposition started to raise their game. They started to hit the rucks hard and did not give Bolton any easy ball. This resulted in the home team gaining 22 unanswered points and taking the game 22-14. Even in defeat there were positives to take from the game. A welcome return to action of Paul Sutcliffe at Flanker after a lengthy lay off injured. Also Lloyd Green was exceptional in everything that he did in terms of breaking up attacks and driving mauls. A possible 1st team berth awaits? The seconds are at home to rivals Bury 2nds next week
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Sat 23 Sept 2006
Bolton 2nd 13 Southport 13
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Sat 16 Sept 2006
LEIGH 26 BOLTON 2NDS 12
Bolton seconds travelled to Leigh for a difficult fixture and narrowly lost out 26-12.
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Sat 9 Sept 2006
BOLTON 2NDS 17 PRESTON GRASSHOPPERS 16
Scientist argue over global warming sweet readers, some say human interference in the equilibrium of Earth's atmosphere has resulted in average annual tempreatures rising...some argue its a natural cycle of Earth's cyclical journey from Ice Age...Warm Up...Ice Age...etc (how could Paddy even dream of putting such an academic at flanker?). However the scientists of that discipline called rugby, were somewhat confused by the swelting 70 degrees temperatures after last weeks rain sodden and freezing visit to Sedgley Park. However we were lucky to have such an eminent professor to lead our ranks with the advice " Drink loads of water lads...its dead hot'! Cheers Pad-Dog. Bouyed by last weeks gritty, if somewhat rusty performance against Sedgley Park, Bolton were visited by the traditionally well drilled and strongPreston Grasshoppers. With several new additions to last weeks team stand in El Capitain was Paddy McGrath who juggled the pack and fielded a strong side. Welcome returns to the fold of the South African Mitchell Brothers of Lloyd and Kyle Green gave the pack that added pep. With evergreen stalwarts Pete Marriott and Andy Leigh in the backs the team again seemed to have a nice blend of youth and experience. The early exchanges were scrappy and no great chances were created but it seemed that PGH's forwards would be their key to success, as much as Bolton's ability to recycle quick ball and feed the backs. Bolton's defence was uncomprimising to say the least with strong hits going in from all forwards. Tom Lee playing in the second row started his domination of the forwards early by hitting hard. Dave Hulme playing flanker also put in some customary if at time borderline tackles to un-nerve the opposition. Bolton had the first chance. Lloyd Green breaking from the base of the scrum drove into the PGH 10, swatting him aside and popping off to the supporting Hulme who fed Marriott. The centre who dominated the backs from start to finish hit a flying StuartPaul...only for the full back to be stopped by the last defender. However despite this early pressure Bolton let it all go by conceeding penalty after penalty to give PGH two shots at goal and to lead 6-0. Bolton came back and with prop Chris Turner having his usual all action game found himself in the outside centre position to feed winger Will Swift to score in the corner. 5-6 PGH. PGH responded with a soft try from some concerted pressure and drove a rolling maul over to make it 5-11. However Bolton had there best patch and started to expand play. Centres Marriott and the return of the ever expanding Dave Meir were cutting through the PGH backs. Again great hands by Marriott put Swift in for his double and Paul added the extras...12--11. Bolton were not finished and on the stroke of half time Marriott proved the that the hands are still pure gold by putting Swift in again for his hat-trick. However what should have been a sight of elation was soon gone as the debt riddled student Swift realised that not only does he have to worry about Tony Blair's 'top-up fees', the 15'000 debt after Uni and the prospect of long-term unemployment, starvation and the fall into benefit fraud...but also he had to find 15 quid to buy the lads a jug. The pale nature of his face told the story, his cries of I'll buy it at the end of the season cut no mustard..good luck in life Swifty! 17-11.
Half time came and with words from every corner ringing in the ears Bolton and PGH ensued on an arm wrestle of a half. Chance were few and far between but PGH did register with a hotly disputed try. 17-16. With 20 minutes still to play Bolton picked up the game and defended stoically, hitting hard.Hooker Mark Crow was throwing in like Russell Crow but tackling like the bulldog he looks like in what was an impressive display. With the game peetering out, Bolton enjoyed one last great chance to make the last five minutes comfortable when Marriott hit Meir with a great pass into the gap. Meir coming off a long season stood a deep silly square mid off was betrayed by the fitness levels required by the leather and willow game and missed the pass to the supporting Swift (who was grateful that the ball-tampering Meir-Kat had bombed out). The final whistle went and bodies left the field battered and brusied but with a great win under the belt. Next week sees the 2nds take on the also unbeaten Leigh 5th team in what will be a tough encounter. Lets see what selection throws the second teams way...but whoever the personnel determination and endeavour on the same scale will be the order of the day...Laters readers! May your Sunday be joy filled and ache free.
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Sat 2 Sept 2006
Sedgley Park 12 Bolton 12
Only a last minute score by Sedgley prevented Boltons first win of the season
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