Under 16

KENDAL U16's 19 COLWYN BAY U16

Colwyn Bay's first game of the tour was a 5.00p.m. kick off following Kendal's 1XV's fixture against New Brighton. The game was played on a virtually unplayable surface following heavy rain and hail showers before and during the game. The tourists watched the first half of this fixture and they provided a vociferous support through the leadership of entertainment manager Martin Rees. The supporters spurred Kendal on and they were soon on the score sheet. Kendal eventually won their first game of the season convincingly against a disheartened New Brighton side.

Weather conditions had improved by the 5.00p.m. kick off; but conditions under foot always meant an open running game was going to be difficult. Kendal began the better and soon put The Bay on the back foot, forward pressure provided the first early score.

Scrummaging was virtually impossible with the referee constantly blowing up for wheeling. Mistakes were frequent from both teams who were always struggling for continuity and momentum. The spirit of the lads was in evidence with the forwards battling to gain possession at the breakdown and trying to put a few phases together ,while the backs were given little time and space to show off their abilities. At 12 0 down at half time The Bay were still in the game.

Finely balanced possession and territory carried on into the second half with the tourists becoming more into the game. Injuries to Jon Bastow and Steve Williams slightly weakened the side. A converted try mid way through the second half extended Kendal's lead. Sheer grit determination carried on until the final whistle, and the lads enjoyed well earned bath.

Excellent hospitality was warily welcomed and the home side chose scrum half Ian Marshall as the man of the match for his typical gutsy performance. Plaques and ties was exchanged by the captains of both sides.

Drier conditions welcomed the tourists for their second fixture of the tour at Penrith. Facing far more superior physical opposition The Bay gave away a few early scores with the hosts taking advantage of over commitment in the rucks and exposing weaknesses out wide. Towards the end of the first half The Bay started to build up momentum and good phases of play by the forwards constantly crossing the gain line resulting in the referee penalising the home side for handling in the ruck. Luke Wrigglesworth stepped up to score the tourists first points of the tour. The Bay continued to the pressure and were fired up at the half time team talk.

The Bay grew in stature and confidence in the second period and succeeded in disrupting the hosts grip on the match, by tightening up their game, gaining turn over ball through good support play. With the hosts getting frustrated they started to creek under pressure and a fracas erupted penalising Penrith. Gaps in the opponents defence started to appear with Gareth Jenkins and Tom Williams exploiting. Another infringement by the hosts gave Luke Wrigglesworth the chance to double his club's tally.

With The Bay tiring towards the end Penrith could have extended their lead but were denied by some spirited and committed defending. At the final whistle both sides knew they had been in a tough game. All credit must go to every member of the squad who rose to the battle. They showed plenty of character and endeavor considering they'd travelled up the previous day and played a demanding match less than 18 hours before.

Again as in Kendal excellent facilities and hospitality was enjoyed at the very impressive clubhouse. Tony Lumby chose Jacob Ryan as the man of the match because of the superb timing of numerous tackles to deny Penrith potential scoring opportunities. The post match ceremony included a soft drinking game which The Bay deservedly won.

Before departing in the morning a presentation was made to Luke Wrigglesworth who was voted man of the tour by the management, coaches and malingerers, Reasosons being for his work rate on the pitch, top points scorer and general good behavior.

It is believed that certain members of the touring party are currently receiving specialist medical and psychological treatment after returning off the rugby tour. symptoms range from posing as either famous film characters, television personalities, cartoon characters, cranial trauma, excess electricity in the body, allapecia, breaking wind and alcohol abuse.

Appropriate companies, businesses, charities and personalities have been contacted to request their support, these include representatives of the late J R R Tolkien, Matt Lucas, The Cats Protection League, Glaxo Pharmaceuticals, Halfords, Gillete, Mombai Indian Restaurant Kendal and The Dun Horse Kendal.

Every effort is being made to keep the identities of these individuals secure regarding legal issues and media interest. It is imperative that the best rehabilitation is given so that these individuals can gradually return to the club to continue their invaluable work