2006-07 Season Summary
P W D L For Ag Pts Position
3rd XV 24 14 0 10 378 283 66 3rd Miller Homes Division 4 North
.
.
Saturday 31st March 2007
Bolton 3rd XV 41 Tarleton 2s 5
As the season begins to come to a close, and I write my penultimate or,possibly, final match report for the season. Bolton were hoping to make third place theirs. After weeks with injuries, player promotions and un-availability having dogged recent performances, they looked to bounce back! With Mat Hurst, Phil Caswell, Matt Parrish, Paul Hunt and Stuart Paul
returning, and Guy Lovegreen making a rare appearance, Bolton had a right to feel confident!
The Game began on a fair day, with the ground being good underfoot and looking like working for the backs runners. Bolton playing into the wind wasted no time in letting Tarleton know they were in for a match from a team who deserved their current league position. The scrums and lineouts even to begin with, both sides moved the ball quickly out to their respective backs to see who would give first! Good solid defence from Bolton's backs, backed up by good rucking, prevented Tarleton from gaining too much ground. When the ball was secured, Lovegreen's boot constantly allowed the backs to hamper the rearguard of the Tarleton defence. Slowly working up the pitch with the forwards, Bolton released the ball for winger Paul to race against tow defenders for the line, beating them to the corner. the conversion missed 5-0. Then Bolton began to get a grip of the game, forwards rapidly securing time and again, barely gave the visitors time to re-group before Davenport had shipped the ball out to Lovegreen. The ball launched down the pitch saw Paul Chasing hard, picking up the loose ball, only to be brought down yards from the line. Seeing Caswell in support, he popped the ball up to allow him to score under the sticks past a diminished defence. the conversion made, 12-0. Bolton had no intention of taking prisoners as they attacked once more, Matt Hurst moving down the wing, to be stopped in almost as identical a place as Paul, once again Caswell was on hand to pick up the loose ball and run parallel to the defence looking for the weak spot, Kev McGill was on hand to take the ball and pass it straight back as the centre passed him and moved for the line. Held up, Steve Knibb called for the ball at the last moment and powered over to increase Bolton's lead. 19-0. Tarleton had not had time to rest before Bolton were again camped in their twenty two, as the forwards began to gain momentum the rolling maul pressed home Bolton's hallmark pack dominance with O'Byrne, Ramsell and Crimmins moving forward time and again. As Parrish broke through to continue the attack, the resultant ruck spun the ball out to Hurst who moved off down the wing again. stopped short, the maul driven forward was forced over the line by Parrish and Crimmins! It mattered little who claimed the try, as it was disallowed, because Hurst's foot was adjudged to be in touch during his run. More excellent kicking from Lovegreen and chasing by wingers Paul and Barlow, put yet more pressure on an already over-stretched Tarleton backline. Employing the maul again put Skipper Hunt in for a try on his return. 24-0. As Barlow went off injured, Wayne Banks came on at nine, as davenport was moved out to the wing, and immediately made his presence felt, rolling off the back of a ruck to cross after only five minutes, the half ended 31-0.
The second half began and continued much as the first half did. Though with the wind now in Tarleton's favour, fullback Si Walsh was kept busy! Even more so when the entire Bolton team saw fit to just stand and admire a kick made by Tarleton's fullback, then allow to bounce in between pretty much everyone! Looking to get as many point's as possible, Bolton were once again on Tarleton's case, but a loss of cool allowed Tarleton to finally cross taking an opportunity down Bolton's oddly empty wing. 29-5. Bolton now wished to kill the game off, Alex Quegan dominating in the line, both home and opposition, meant that the visitor's kicks for ground meant nothing. Turning the ball over more times than not Bolton sat for most of the second half in opposition territory. Rapidly secured ball shipped quickly down the line, gave Hurst the chance to absorb the defence and put Caswell in for his second, 35-5 Once again the red and white hoops lost their cool, and Hurst was sin-binned for throwing a punch, it wasn't really for the punch, but the fact that it was so weak! During this time, after re-organising, so as not to leave the wing empty, an almost identical move, this time with Paul standing at inside centre absorbing defenders once more, saw Caswell cross again in amazing style, to secure the most glorious and well timed hat-trick, possibly in the history of the third team, man of the match, and sadly for him, some free beer for his team mates. 41-5 As the heat wore on players, Banks and the opposition fullback, both walked off to cool down for ten minutes for foul play! Little time remained and neither player saw the playing field again, as the ref blew his whistle and one of the best, if not the best, all round performances of the third's stunning season ended.
The spectators entertained, Hunt over the moon, the players walked off the pitch heads deservedly held high. With a week off for all teams next week, the thirds return in two weeks fresh from the Easter break to travel to Fleetwood in the hope of avenging the seconds, and putting a cap on what has been a brilliant season for all concerned.
.
17th March 2007
Wigan 3s 17 Bolton 3rd XV 0
Another close performance between the local neighbours ended up in a loss as Bolton 3rd’s finishing failed to make the score as close as it should have been.
.
Sat 24th February 2007
Bolton 3rd XV 7 Fylde 4s 8
The third team entertained Fylde this week and with a diminished squad and needing to bring in 6 forth team players. The game started off quite even both teams getting good territory and pushing for the line through the pack but nothing seemed to be getting over white stuff at both ends it took a bit of magic to get the first score of the game Stuart Paul trying to clear the ball behind our goal post's got charged down so fast he had no option but to side step out of the way he then brushed past another charging Fylde player to set up a full length of the pitch counter attack which led to Bolton scoring in the corner. Try scorer James Dean, Danny Barlow made the kick from the corner making it 7-0. Bolton then instead of pilling on the pressure further turned the game into a midfield mud battle with neither team making many yard coming toward half time Fylde managed to steal the ball in our 22 and make the score 7-5 as they missed the conversion half time.
The second half started with a changed Bolton pack and a highly aggressive start but Bolton still couldn't seem to penetrate the Fylde back line. Fylde pinned in there own half got a good clearance won the lineout and then got a penalty (one of about 50 Bolton gave away that game) Fylde opted for the conversion to make it 7-8 in there favour. After Fylde took the lead Bolton raised the tempo but couldn't seem to break the Fylde line then Fylde did something stupid and gave away a penalty right under the posts and with Danny Barlow who got one from the touchline earlier in the game you would think Bolton back in the lead well you would be wrong he dragged it wide still 7-8 to Fylde. 10 minutes later Bolton then got another penalty again under the post Danny Barlow stepped up every Bolton player thinking lighting doesn't strike twice it did he missed still 7-8 to Fylde. The match ended 7-8 with special mentions having to go out to Simon Walsh how had what can only be described a faultless game a full back Danny Barlow who apart from two kicks had a great game at 10 and all the fourth team players who took a step up to the third team level rugby and raised there game to the next level.
.
Saturday 17th February 2007
North Manchester 21 Bolton 3rd XV 7
Hello to all my readers and fans of people who'll eventually go bald! You're laughing at me now, but it'll come to you too soon! Apologies for the enforced absence, as my brilliance was needed to help boost the second team, apparently there's too much hair! After two losses in a row, Bolton travelled this week to face North Manchester away in a crucial clash which could make or break the teams promotion chances. Missing key players, Metcalfe, Hurst, Hunt and O'Byrne, Bolton were strengthened by the return of Parrish to the forwards and Caswell to the backs. A strong start from Bolton showed that it was not going to be easy for North to pass them on the pitch or in the table. Early moves showed that Bolton's traditionally strong pack were not going to have it all their own way in the scrums, but neither did they let North run away with the game. Early exchanges with Paul and the north ten meant that play was open and ground gained could quickly be lost. With Plimmer and Ramsell working hard in the rucks and mauls ball was constantly recycled to allow Parrish and hill to try and break the defencive line, but to little avail. When they had the ball, not happy with the lack of forward domination, North spun it to the backs, where they began to cause trouble. Fast and well drilled, it was usually desperate stuff from Ryan and Benhadzi as Bolton held on to prevent the score! Too much pressure and repeated attacks down the same line eventually produced a score for North, with the conversion making it 7-0. Dubious calls from official when Bolton went over, and a last ditch tackle to prevent an excellent run from Parrish reaping dividends meant that after all the hard work, the half ended with the score unchanged.
The second half began with an un-worried Bolton looking to change things and hit the opposition hard and breakthrough. Still no dominating the scrum, Bolton finally got the Rolling maul moving, with someone like Tregilgas hitting it repeatedly, it would be like trying to stop a cannon ball with rice paper. Slow yards were eventually gained and the Bolton backs finding pace began to make the quick yards required. A bit of re-jigging was required as Green came on for the injured Paul and took inside centre! A period of play saw North camped in Bolton's half and allowed their well drilled backs to score twice from similar plays down the same channel. Things began to look bleak. Only with dogged determination not to go down without a score, Bolton slowly inched back up the field with good crash ball and mauling from the forwards advancing them. With time running out camped fifteen metres outside North's line Davenport spun the ball from the back of a ruck to Barlow, who passed on for Green to make a powerful run absorbing three defending backs, off loading the ball at the crucial moment allowed Caswell to make use of the gap created to race for the line and touchdown, Barlow converted to make it 21-7. With three minutes left, it was all Bolton
could do to retrieve some pride from a match they fought hard in!
Steve Knibb rising to the challenge V North Manchester
Next week Bolton host Fylde fourths as they look to return to winning ways
Sat 10th February 2007
Bolton 3rd XV 3 Littleborough 2s 13
Bolton thirds lost a tough match to a strong Littleborough team.
Saturday 3rd February
Bolton 3rd XV 10 Liverpool St Helens 16
.
27th January 2007
Thornton Cleveleys 8 Bolton 3rd XV 18
Due to players missing, the third team travelled to Thornton with 14 players but held their own as fly half Stuart Paul put a great display. Final score 8 – 18, to Bolton.
.
Saturday 13th January 2007
Bolton 3rd XV 5 Preston Grasshoppers 6th 3
Hi sports fans!
After a Christmas break which saw mixed results for a Bolton side, they looked to continue general good form as they hosted bottom of the table Preston. As is the norm with any side from Preston, they were not to be taken lightly. With a number of changes in the side due to player shortages, the surprise move was Paul Hunt to fullback, over much favoured backs veteran Phil Caswell, who was moved to centre. The day was less than average, but the pitch seemed good. Preston started the stronger of the two sides, with the wind in their favour and spent a lot of the first half encamped in Bolton's half, but excellent defensive work from Bolton prevented the hoppers from breaking through! Mistake after mistake came, from both sides as a slippy ball and infringements in the rucks and mauls meant that neither side had meaningful possession for long enough. Bolton, for the first time for a while, actually met their match in the scrum, and failed to impress. Line-outs were also proving a problem for Bolton, as Preston secured the ball either against the throw or due to infringement. A penalty in front of the post gave Hoppers that chance to break the deadlock and take the lead, duly taken, the score was 3-0 as shortly after the uneventful first half drew to a close.
The second half started with Bolton looking to come back and make amends for scrappy and below par play, only the strong tackling of the team in general prevented a higher score! With the wind dropping away, the advantage of weather seemed to have abandoned Bolton. First half domination by Preston of scrums, rucks and line-outs, courtesy of a very formidable number eight who liked to just steamroll Bolton players for fun, appeared to have come to an end. The whole of the Bolton team, forwards and backs, attended rucks and mauls to secure ball and show the visitors that they finally meant business. As the trademark rolling maul of Bolton began to effect, any territory regained by Preston was quickly lost as Barlow's boot gave the backs plenty to chase, the combination of Kamran Behzadi's pace, backed up by Caswell and Ryan meant that the hoppers fullback rarely had any time to think before he was under pressure from either pair, typically resulting in Bolton re-securing the ball! a penalty just outside the five metre line allowed skipper hunt to quickly take it and dive over to take the lead. The conversion missed, Bolton lead 5-3. With more scrappy play to follow, and each team not wishing to take the initiative, neither side looked like moving over the whitewash again, as the ref blew the whistle, Bolton were relieved to have avoided a shock defeat!
Next week, Bolton are home again as they host Littleborough.
.
Saturday 23rd December 2006
Bolton 11 v 8 Sale
Hello and merry Christmas sports fans! After a recent mixed performances the irresistible force of Bolton third team took on the immovable object of unbeaten league leaders Sale in what was possibly the finest game all season. Off the back of a mixed, but mainly successful, couple of performances over the Christmas period the Bolton looked to put at least a decent fight against Sale, mindful of the close run match at Haywood road and the fact that Sale would look to steamroll Bolton and stamp their final authority on all teams in the league. The day was overcast, and the pitch was in good condition as the match began. Sale were caught still on the coach as Bolton made their way up the pitch in traditional style, a good rolling maul ably lead By Ramsell, with O'burne, Tregilgas, Down and Crimmins providing enough grunt to knock the earth off it's axis, interspersed with ground well taken by the backs, Sale looked lost and not the team in form at the top of the table as they seemed unable to answer any of the moves worked form Bolton. Excellent touch Kicking, followed by superb running from wingers Caswell and Benazi, stole a lot of ground for without letting Sale return with the quick throw in. the line-outs didn't always go in Bolton's favour, but strong defending from the pack and backs would not allow Sale to take any ground back. On the few occasions when Sale did make it into Bolton's half, un-characteristic indiscipline leading to infringements allowed Higgins and Paul to let their boots put Bolton back up the pitch. With some more excellent work, and infringements from Sale, Bolton saw their chance to take the lead! The pre-arranged penalty moves involving Parrish as the man to take the ball in, lets face it his features couldn't get any worse should anyone attempt to re-arrange them for him, the rest of the pack swarmed around him and began to inexorably move the few yards towards the line. sensing the opportunity, Crimmins broke free, almost unseen by the Sale defence to cross and give Bolton the lead. The conversion missed, half time was met with Bolton leading sale 5-0.
The second half began in much the same way as the first had finished, though now Sale were really beginning to show some form at last and forcing Bolton back down the pitch. trying to work things through the backs to gain ground, Sale were astonished to find the Bolton back line up on them almost as soon as the ball left the back of the scrum, with Hurst and Keech allowing no time for Sale to work their move and undo the impenetrable Bolton defence. an infringement from Bolton gave Sale the chance to kick themselves back into the game, an excellent penalty taken from some forty yards out closed the gap to 5-3, the tension rose noticeably. Bolton, were seemingly unperturbed by this as they went straight back at the visitors, looking for another score to finish Sale off. a penalty in front of the posts gave Paul the chance to re-establish Bolton's lead. Duly taken, it was now 8-3. Most of the rest of the half was played around the halfway line, with excellent defending coming from all areas to deny Sale, especially from Skipper Hunt, on for Tregilgas, and Kyle Green,whose tackling put paid to many a Sale attack. then disaster almost struck. Five minutes from time Veteran Winger Phil Caswell was taken down, tackling a sale player, with an injury that only his courage and strength of a bear prevented his passing out from. skipper Hunt looked downcast as Caswell confirmed that he could not carry on. Bolton third team Lamented, and Substitute Winger Walton came on. Bolton worked their back up the park. Another penalty for Bolton gave man of the match, this week I mean it folks, Paul a chance to add to the score. the ball flew over the posts and the whistle sounded! At 11-8 Bolton thirds had secured one of their most memorable wins for sometime, and Sale were finally beaten. Bolton's season long good form continued.
.
Saturday 16th December2006
Bolton 3rd XV 29 Kirby Lonsdale 2s 10
Eager to expunge the memory of last week poor defeat to Chester in the cup, Bolton awaited the arrival of close league rivals Kirby Lonsdale. With excellent weather and a firm pitch, the day looked set for another good encounter.
An uneasy start for both sides saw possesion for either team gain reward. Handling had much improved on the previous week, and Bolton looked to be in control. Both teams spent the first few minutes testing and probing the opposition defence looking for weaknesses, when Bolton's much feared rolling maul was brought into play. Against the heavy pack, Kirby's lighter team stood no chance as Bolton started to make they way up the pitch in a fashion they've almost made an art-form. It finally paid off when a well worked line-out, followed by yet more powerful mauling, allowed Jim Ramsell to put the first points on the board for Bolton. An excellent conversion from Stuart Paul added the bonus points. Kirby came back strong after the restart and began to move slowly up the pitch with good moves coming from both forwards and backs. An infringement in a ruck gave the visitors the first chance of points, and took the penalty, not wishing to run into Bolton's defence again. More good work from Bolton's forwards moved them up the pitch again, and was more or less the story of the half as John Singleton pushed over to add another score for Bolton. The conversion added and a penalty from Paul, the half time score was 17-3.
The second half went much they way of the first, but was a much more scrappy affair with the ref handing out plenty of penalties and free kicks as infringements were rife. Then Kirby struck, seeing that the way forward was to use their pace in the backs, quick line-outs were taken regularly. A good boot and chase up pitch, combined with a mistake from Danny Barlow, saw the visitors close the gap again, with the conversion put over. This little flourish of life was all that was left of what Kirby had to give, once that backs had seen the quick line-out route, the was now no way through for Kirby and they could do little but watch as Bolton continued to press home with better play. Before we announce the scorers folks, it's time for the weekly monkey of the match award. This week's deserved winner has managed to wrest control of the monkey from Mr Barlow's positively vice like grip. Insert your own pun/conclusion here! Mid way into the second half Mark down was given ten minutes for fighting in the ruck. To commit such a crime, the being caught not the fighting, was deemed most heinous by skipper Hunt, specially as the referee glasses appeared to be lacking the required strength for spotting little digs on the pitch. Using the rolling maul with devastating effect once more, Bolton scored twice: another push over try from Dave O'Byrne, and a well poached try coming care of Shaun Crimmins. with one conversion added. Man of the match was awarded to Stuart Paul by himself, he looked like he'd be lost for the rest of the day without it. Rumour has it, that it was really Jim Ramsell. With a number of games being cancelled, Bolton have been lifted into the second promotion spot.
Join us next week sports, please apply the term loosely, fans as Bolton look to possibly the most eagerly anticipated and toughest game of the season: Sale at home
.
Saturday 9th December 2006
Chester 3s 19 Bolton 3rd XV 11
With a couple of injuries, Bolton thirds made their way to Chester still boasting quite a strong squad. After recent weeks, Bolton were hopeful of starting a cup run to match there season long success in the league. This was not to be, however, as Bolton were to suffer a catalogue of minor errors and mishaps that were to spell disaster for the team. The first half started well for Chester as they move better and drove Bolton back up the pitch consistently even with consistent pressure, they couldn't force their way over as soon as they would've liked. the pressure did tell, eventually, as Bolton's defence was caught out and Chester touched down to open the scoring. the conversion missed, it looked like it could be a dismal day for the reds. Bolton began to come back at their hosts and started doing what they did best, mauling the ball up the pitch and giving the backs shorts runs to make the extra yards! A penalty given outside the twenty two, gave Barlow the chance to make some ground up in points. With a well executed kick, Bolton were back in it, 5-3. More good work from pressure, alongside some unfortunate handling and rucking infringements, let Chester in for another score. The added conversion took it to 12-3. The weather then turned against everyone as hail began to fall, and the ground turned into a quagmire. More good work took Bolton close to the posts again, to let Barlow close the increased gap to 12-6. One minute from time injured skipper Paul Hunt came off to be replaced by Tony Davenport.
The second half began with the ball now like a bar of soap and almost all players on both sides struggling to keep a hold of it, or send it out for a successful long pass. Good work in the middle from the Bolton back row pair gained valuable yards but were to come to naught, as the referee appeared to give everything Chester's way. A spectator from Chester observed that the ref only had three laws. Two of those we believe aren't even in the rulebook! This weeks monkey of the match award goes to Danny Barlow, remember that name folks, I think you'll be hearing it often. A late tackle from the Chester inside centre dumped Barlow on his back, but only after an eldritch and almost girl like squeal, some likened it to that of a pig, crept from the victims mouth! It was deemed unnecessary and over-dramatic. Congratulations Danny, though if you win it five times I'm not sure you're allowed to keep it! Chester worked their way back down the pitch and a well worked move caught Bolton at a two to one disadvantage and Chester Passed over once again. The conversion taken the score was now 19-6 and Bolton looked down and out, and running short on time. Strong mauling, the hallmark of the team this season, allowed Bolton to walk their way back up the pitch and eventually go over with Crimmins making the score. A successful conversion, Bolton would've been with a converted score of stealing the match, but despite a good effort, Barlow's kick failed to find the mark, and it was now a little too much for Bolton to do, 19-11. Yet more scrappy play from all concerned put an end to a bad day for Bolton, where it seemed nothing wanted to go right for them from the start. Dejected Skipper Hunt looked out from the sideline over the pitch in much the same way a lieutenant-general would survey the battle of Passchendaele, the conditions being much the same!
Next week, Bolton thirds gruelling Christmas schedule continues as they host fourth place Kirby-Lonsdale.
Sat 2nd December 2006
Tarleton 2s 15 Bolton 3rd XV 34
In form Bolton third team made the trip up to Tarleton to take on the mid-table side with mixed form, who could still cause an upset. Skipper Hunt's plan for the day, after seeing the size of the opposition forwards was to play one phase rugby and let the backs use their pace to finish off the moves. This was not to be the case, however. Early exchanges in the first showed that neither team was going to be allowed free run of the park to do with as they wish. Early pressure from Tarleton was rewarded with no break through despite repeated attempts from their backs to exploit wing of Tom Lowe. An infringement in the ruck gave Tarleton the opportunity to take the lead with a penalty. Bolton came back strong with good running from all sectors of the park making quick ground, and good kicking from Matt Hurst gaining extra yards. Bolton's forwards Mauled the ball onwards after a line-out, and with a good push from Gareth Tregilgas, Matthew Parrish powered over the line to give Bolton the lead. From the restart Tarleton came back strong again making use of a gap in the Bolton defence to go across the line and take the lead back. Readers of my new weekly column will recall how last week Danny 'awesome' Barlow's charged down penalty from last week, here is something to make him feel better. The opposition's 'awesome' kicker moved too slowly on the conversion and saw it charged down by Bolton, much to his own disbelief, before having a chance to even kick the ball. I'm sure Danny feels his pain, and embarrassment. Although the set scrum was proving fairly even, Bolton's mauling and rucking was superior, and it began to tell, as Bolton touched down twice ,one from Ramsell and one from Crimmins, with one conversion, to give them a half time lead of 17-8.
Bolton started the second with all the elements now in their favour, wind and sun behind them, giving them even more advantage over a tiring Tarleton Side. With an obvious lack of forward dominance, Tarleton looked to their back line to make the breakthrough required. though when the ball was secured and passed out, they found it almost impossible to break through the back line Of Hurst, Caswell and Hughes with good tackling all round halting the opposition in their tracks. Good runs from wingers Bennazzi and Walton, from some good forward work, failed to reap benefits as the Tarleton back line was proving almost as impervious. It was to the forwards that skipper Hunt looked to once more for the score. Back in the corners Bolton worked their magic three more time as Ramsell completed his brace and Hunt and Singleton went over, with another conversion added. It looked all over. With one last burst of courage and etermination, Tarleton wanted the last say in the match. Slow work up the field resulted in an opposition line-out. Quickly taken, Bolton's defence was caught napping and they were allowed over for a consolation try. The conversion taken, the match ended 34-15. One of the most impressive team performances to date was rewarded with a healthy win. Next week Bolton take on top of 4 south Chester in the cup.
.
Saturday 25th November 2006
Bolton 3rd XV 21 Fleetwood 3s 17
The third team strode out onto the pitch to face Fleetwood off the back of a weekend off and two straight wins. A good start to the match saw early pressure from Bolton's stronger pack which allowed Wayne Banks to cross the white wash to put Bolton in front, the conversion being missed. This was followed by a period of even play between the two sides with Fleetwood pouncing on a flat-footed Bolton defence to cross twice, with a conversion added to one of them, half time: Bolton 5 Fleetwood 12.
The second half started with the wind now in Bolton's favour and adding some much needed additional length to Bolton's touch kicking. Captain Paul Hunts plan to play in the corners was being well executed allowing Danny Barlow to touch down. Which is where we come to the monkey of the match award: Stood in front of the posts Barlow took too long to run up for the kick and allowed Fleetwood to charge down the conversion of his own penalty, to the utter dis-belief of his own players, and much to the mirth of Fleetwood. They say a picture's worth a thousand words, the collective look on Bolton's faces was worthy of a very thick book! Afterwards, captain Hunt was heard to say 'I've never seen that in twenty five years of rugby'. I'm sure Danny was only to glad to oblige. Fleetwood, who were not finished yet once again took advantage of a sleeping Bolton defence and lack of communication, to go over once again. The score was now at 17-16 to Fleetwood, with time running out it was looking like Barlow's missed conversion would cost the team dearly. Eight minutes left and Bolton once again fought their way desperately up the pitch with good work coming from all parts of the pitch and solid defending when required. Once back in the all important corners Bolton pressure finally became points as the No. eight went over to score. The conversion missed, Bolton looked to hold back a dangerous fleetwood side from stealing it one last time. Bolton held on to take the game 21-17.
.
Saturday 11th November 2006
Kirby Lonsdale 7 Bolton 3rd XV 43
Bolton 3rds made the long, tough trip to Kirby Lonsdale, making it a full day out by hiring a coach. The entire team were there in good time, as warming up was crucial due to heavy winds and driving rain. Playing down hill in the 1st half Bolton pressed from the start. Keeping it tight due to the conditions, Bolton set a driving maul which took them almost to the line! With 5 metres to go a ruck was formed and a great pass from Wayne Banks found Jim Ramsell in space to go over from 5 metres. Stuart Paul kicked an excellent conversion, despite the wind. 7-0 and only 4 minutes on the clock. Driving through the middle looked to be the order of the day for Bolton. The second try quickly followed the first, as the pack push their way to Kirby’s line. A drive from “winger for the day” Paul Tonge got with in centre metres and Bolton got over from the resulting ruck. Try converted 14-0.
The game continued in this manor with Bolton scoring 4 tries before the half time whistle, playing up hill in the second half would be more challenging as Kirby would look to do what Bolton did. However from the kick off Bolton pushed Kirby back into their half with some excellent kicking from Stuart Paul and great line out work by Alex Metcalfe. Needless to say the tries kept on coming. With the game becoming safe Bolton began to use the backs more. Excellent passing saw Derek Keogh run half the length of the pitch, only to be tackled. Good support meant that Captain Paul Hunt went over for the try. Only 1 other try to mention. We have all seen the films, possibly even read the books, but I never thought I would ever see a grown man in full flight! Supporters were asking themselves “was it a plane?” no to low, “was it a bird?” no way too big! “was it superman?” no it was Mathew Parrish swan diving over 6 bodies to score! Final Score 43-7 an excellent victory!
.
Sat 4th November 2006
Bolton 3rd XV 12 Blackburn 3
Bolton 3rd XV entertained local neighbours Blackburn in a hope of getting back to winning ways after 2 close defeats. Bolton started the stronger, with pack challenging well in the rucks and gaining good grounding for the backs to pin Blackburn back. It was this combination which led to Bolton’s first try as good clearing out gave he backs time to pass along the line and Derek Keogh to score. Stuart Paul missed the conversion, 5-0. Bolton consistently pressured the Blackburn line, but failed to make chances count. Paul Tonge dropping a ball just short of the line! after a solid 1st half display Bolton went confidently into the second half, however they were immediatly put on the back foot as Stuart Paul was sin binned for getting over excited at a ruck. Bolton suvived the 10 minutes thanks to good tacking and a well organised defense. Bolton’s second try came as Blackburn looked to attack. Blackburn spilled the ball and Matt Hurst kicked the ball all the way to the try line. Conversion scored, 12-0. Blackburn then put some pressure on the Bolton line, silly penalty after penalty gave them good platform but good defending by Captain Paul Hunt, Alex Metcalfe, John Singleton and the rest of the pack ment Blackburn could not get through and they settled for 3 points. hten Bolton and especially Paul Hunt had the biggest scare of the match, as John Singleton finding it hard to keep pace for 80 minutes - i hope i can do 80 minutes at his age or even half his age! - clutched his chest, thankfully he was only sucking in more oxygen to knock blackburn back! in the last ten minutes the game began to get niggly as Blackburn became frustrated at not being able to get out of therir half. Bolton's tempers were led from the front as Mr Crimmins took a flying head butt at his opposite number in the scrum when Bolton were 10 metres from the Blackburn line! No wonder he had a big penis round his neck in the bar! with seconds left a good chase by derek keogh wrapped their full back up a little too tight and tempers boiled. i think it was six punches but who was counting as the ref blew for 80. thats 80 minutes! Final Score 12-3.
.
Sat 28th October 2006
Sale 2nd's 15 Bolton 3rds 10
Bolton 3rd's travelled to Haywood Road to take on the runaway league leaders, Sale 2nd's, on the back of two disappointing losses. The opening encounters showed why Sale are top of the table. They play with power and pace but Bolton's resilient defence stood firm. However, constant pressure in the first 15 minutes led to the well drilled Sale pack eventually driving over a maul in the corner for an uncoverted try. Bolton responded magnificently and drove 30 metres from a line out to deep into Sale's 22 with what is becoming a trademark thundering maul. A penalty 5 out with a quick tap didn't quite go as planned and bolton found themselves back on the 22 again! Needless to say Metcalfe, captaining for the 1st half, didn't think it wise to try this ploy again and called up Paul to go for 3 points. On any other pitch a penalty 15 from touch on the 22 wouldn't be an issue but on the wide expanses of Haywood Road it looked a daunting task. As the ball slipped by the right upright most of the Bolton players were preparing for the resulting 22 drop out, except for Hurst who pounced on what was probably Sale's only mistake of the game. The ball bounced in the in-goal and Hurst, at full tilt, grabbed it, collided with 2 or 3 of his opponents then landed to touch down. Paul converted and Bolton found themselves in front. Sale turned the screw and despite facing opponents who were fitter and (mostly) younger Bolton weren't giving their lead up without a fight. Every man in red and white hoops gave it 100%, contesting each ruck and maul to the limits of the laws. The backs defence, against a team who are clearly destined to move swiftly up the league's, was awesome. All this effort took it's toll though and players were starting to get knocks and bangs. Bolton lost two hookers and a 2nd row before half time meaning Evans had to step up to prop rather than have un-contested scrums.
The change of ends didn't affect the game in the slightest. Bolton shuffled players around and made some substitutions to try and keep pace with the very fit Salians. As the 2nd half wore on the game was finely balanced but with Sale bringing on their front row replacements Bolton's scrum began to creak and a rear guard action ensued. Sale were virtually camped in the Bolton 22 for 20 minutes. There were too many fantastic tackles to mention individuals but considering the lacklustre efforts of last week it's fair to say the 3rd's had regained their lost spirit! It took a move of real quality for Sale to cross Bolton's try line for the 2nd time. With a srcum 15 in from their left touchline Sale's 9 passed directly from the base of the scrum to the outside centre who was coming back on a steep angle. As soon as he got to Bolton's defensive line he turned and popped to the number 8 who charged past despairing arms to touch down. With the try duly converted Bolton threw caution to the wind and attacked back. It wasn't long before Sale infringed in centre field and Captain Hunt pointed at the sticks. Paul brought Bolton back into the game leaving it 12-10. Sale showed composure by driving into Bolton's half, kicking for the corner and forcing Bolton to play in their own 22. By this point it was fair to say that Bolton's pack had played themselves into the ground. Try as they might Bolton just couldn't break out but even when Sale did get possession back they couldn't break the Bolton defence a third time. This resulted in them kicking a drop goal with mere minutes left and at 15-10 they came out deserved winners. It's fair to say that Sale are a class, or four, above this league. However, Bolton 3rds performance was manful. What was most impressive was the attitude and effort exhibited by every player. A return to the winning ways of the not too distant past won't be far away!
.
Saturday 21st October
Preston Gh 10 Bolton 3rd XV 0
Bolton 3rd XV had a slightly shorter trip to Preston Grasshoppers. This was always going to be a tough game for the 3rd team, who have been on an unbeaten run of late. Paul Hunt’s side eventually lost in a bad tempered match 10-0.
.
Saturday 14th October
Bolton 3rd XV
A home win !
.
Saturday 7th October 2006
Liverpool St Helens 12 Bolton 3rd XV 18
Bolton 3rds traveled to a tough away match against Liverpool St Helens without some of there regulars who have moved on to better things! However, as ever the mastermind that is Paul Hunt had a few tricks up his sleeve, as a young lad from Nottingham way turned up looking for his Dad. He just so happened to have brought his boots! The match set of at a fast pace but Bolton had the better of the early exchanges. A brake away try by Liverpool saw hard work go to waste. 7-0 Bolton look to bounce pack and after strong pressure a driving maul from a line out was scored over the line by Paul Hunt. Stuart Paul converted the try. 7-7, a tight game at Half Time. With the wind blowing Bolton looked to push on after half time, with Stuart Paul adding 2 penalties to put Bolton 13-7 up. Liverpool then sprung back into life and charged up the field. A mass of 10 rucks in a row finally made holes in the Bolton defense and Liverpool crossed the white wash in the corner. 13-12. This was the time for Captain Hunt to play his ace as the lost boy finally reunited with his dad (in the middle of a maul I hear) turned up on the back of powerful forward play and swooped over the line in the corner. Conversion missed Bolton came out 18-12 victors! Thanks to Mark Higgins for traveling from Nottingham for the game.
.
Saturday 30th September 2006
Bolton 3rd XV 21 North Manchester 7
After a relentless start to the season, Bolton looked to maintain there winning streak against a tough North Manchester side at Avenue street. On a very autumnal day it looked like both teams had to cope with the weather as well.
Bolton started the brighter as good play from the forward led to Chris Hughes making a powerful run and crossing the line. Stuart Paul converted to put Bolton 7-0 up. With the team now expecting to control the match, North Manchester hit back with a driving maul of their own that took them into the Bolton twenty-two. The ball was spun out and their powerful inside centre scored just wide of the posts. Conversion scored, 7-7 at half time
This was a wake up call to this strong Bolton side who realised they needed to up the intensity. This was truly done as the Bolton Pack worked towards the opposition’s try line. Chris Barr the benefactor. Stuart Paul continued his impressive kicking (did I just write that?) 14-7. With the game slipping away from North Manchester, Bolton again moved up the pitch. The hard work done by the pack resulted in good ball for Stuart Paul who took it on him self to cross the line and add the conversion. Final score 21-7. Bolton 3rds find themselves on another tough road trip to Liverpool St Helens in the coming week which will surely test their winning streak.
.
Saturday 23rd Sptember 2006
Flyde 4ths 7 Bolton 3rds 20
Bolton 3rds traveled away to Fylde 4ths with a few changes to the regular team with the absence of Hurst, Metcalffe and Brady. Bolton arrived with 2 wins so far this season but felt a stern test awaited them with the huge size of the Fylde team. In the first fifteen mins both teams cancelled each other out however Bolton discovered that the driving maul seemed to pay dividends and they made good yards with this play. On a rare visit to the Bolton Half Fylde forced a 10m lineout and duely scored on the blindside conv 7-0. From the return kick Bolton pounced on some scrappy play and drove over the line with a fine try by Banks, made by Ramsell. No conv-7-5 at half time.
Bolton now had the wind at their backs and the game plan was simple get within 10meters of the Fylde line and drive over for the tries. Bolton continued to press with Fylde only able to kick out of their 22 and fullback Keogh who did not make an error all day just running the ball back to Fylde. Eventually Fylde conceded a penalty and the remorseful Paul duely made the kick 7-8. Bolton were now lifted with the lead, and a lineout 10 meters out caught by the impressive Sandbrook ablely assisted by Crimmins and O'Byrne drove over for the killer try by Ramsell.Conv by Paul 15-7. Bolton were now in total control and it was time to let the backs have free reign after a series of rucks Hughes and Caswell combined well resulting in a try by Casswell.no conv 20-7 Bolton win. I would like to thank all my players who when asked travelled long distances swapped and changed position, subbed and did not complain, and who contributed to a great team spirit on the day reminding us all why we play rugby.
.
Sat 16 Sept 2006
BOLTON 3RDS 19 ASPULL 2NDS 7
Bolton thirds hosted neighbours Aspulls second team and ran out winners in a bad tempered game. Players from both sides seemed more interested in causing problems rather than playing rugby and several found themslves in the sin bin.
.
Sat 9 Sept 2006
BOLTON 3RDS 19 WIGAN 3RDS 12
Bolton thirds played met Rivals Wigan at home hoping to start the season well after last weeks disapointing cancellation against Littleborough. After a few late changes to the side , Bolton started the game with aggression and this showed by dominating the scrum and line out early on. After falling behind to a lucky wigan try, the tables were soon to turn and after great play from the backs particularly Chris Singleton in the centre, bolton forced the oppositon deep in to their half. A lineout steal by flanker Al Metclafe saw the bolton forwards drive to the line and Dave O'byrne squeezing his ample frame through the bodies to score. The conversion was missed from the left. Boltons forwards continued to dominate and this to another score this time from scrum half Higgins and Barlow converted the try H-T 12-5 to Bolton. The scond half started as the first with the forwards dominating however the dominace was not rewarded as Wigan scored a break away try by intercepting a pass and running 70 meters to score. it was now 12-12 but bolton knew they could still win the game. More pressure from the forwards finally led to a push over try by Skipper PAul hunt and Barlow kicked the conversation from wide out and bolton hung on to claim the first points of the campaign, not a bad start. next week the thirds entertain Aspull
.
Sat 2 Sept 2006
Bolton 3rds game away at Littleboro was postponed due to the weather - in September ?
