West Park 7 - Southport 19

Southport's winning run continue reports Martyn Sime

Southport U16s continued their excellent run of results as they moved into the second round of this year’s Cup. But playing a very motivated West Park team they almost threw away their first half advantage with a prolonged period of indiscipline than took place on both sides of the interval. With the ball over the try line four times in the first half but only 12 points on the board (Tries: Harry H & George S, Conversion Tom Ste.), Spencer (foot in touch, called to chagrin of the vocal travelling support, by the linesman - me) and George (ball held-up) were unlucky not to have added to Southport’s advantage.

West Park held their nerve during the second half and piled on the pressure, closing the gap to five points early on in the second half. George however continued to pose a substantial threat and James C and Nathan proved that a team with a powerful engine can always provide the opportunity for flair players to shine. This effort, combined with Southport’s strength in depth as the ‘finishers’ took to the pitch, saw West Park’s initial advantage in the scrum turned over as the game progressed and their forwards’ legs tired.

Sustained attacks saw Southport just outside West Park’s 22 as the match drew to a close. Joe P orchestrated a series of set plays to move the backs into range. A well taken short lineout allowed the forwards to set up the wedge and drive. With the defence tied in the ball was released to the backs and, taking full advantage of the space created for him, Jake drove over the line to score under the posts in the last play of the match.