Hoppers were certainly not taking any chances in defending a Cup that it had won at under 17 age group last season, having also won the equivalent Lancashire cup at junior level in each of the four preceding years. The squad of thirty one listed in the match programme was formidable littered with players with England and Sale Sharks Academy honours, North of England and Lancashire representation, and high level First and Second XV experience.

Whilst many of the Southport lads have been blooded in the senior ranks this season there is no way the CV of the squad of twenty one could compare with this array of talent, nor with the size and fitness of their impressive opponents.

But no matter with the sun shining and backed by the excellent support which had travelled to Fylde the underdogs started well. An early opportunity to take the lead with a penalty was missed, the initial absence of a kicking tee meaning the attempt had to be hurried (not the first time this has happened this season!!!!). However, Jacob McMullen soon made amends and at 3-0 up hope sprang eternal.

But PGH began to flex their muscles and securing good possession their powerful backs started to literally steam roller the stretched Southport defence to score an unconverted try. Another kickable penalty soon afterwards gave McMullen the chance to retake the lead but it was missed and as PGH went into overdrive they put the game out of reach with a regular flow of well worked tries to reach over forty points.

In the end Southport were beaten by a very good and well prepared side, but to the credit of the lads they made their opponents work hard right to the finish. Full credit also to PGH and for not taking Southport lightly.

With most of the Southport squad still eligible for the Senior Colts next season this experience can only stand the under 18s in good stead. Meanwhile the under 19s will now focus on just on senior rugby. Some of both age groups will be moving on to pastures new but, whatever, it's been an eventful and enjoyable journey and whilst it would have nice to have finished with a "big one" the lads can all be extremely proud of their efforts. The club certainly is.

Finally, a big word of thanks is due to Marianne Bailey who has done a tremendous job this season in organising the Senior Colts which at times must have been like knitting spaghetti with cry-offs, no-shows, drop outs etc. Thanks Marianne.