With the COP26 summit kicking off in Glasgow it was inevitable that climate was going to influence the rugby this weekend and that was definitely the case with Southports match with Keswick being transferred to the 4G pitch at Penrith because of the torrential rain that flooded Keswicks home ground. Thanks must go to Penrith Rugby Club for allowing this to happen.

Wholesale changes were made to the team this week with injuries and unavailability being the main problem however despite the weakened pack, especially the front row, the lads were quietly confident especially with a strong backline. The match kicked off with Southport benefiting from a direct kick to touch and from the resulting scrum Southport were able to exert some pressure on Keswick which resulted in a penalty which Jake Mann converted and Southport were up and running 0 – 3.

Keswick were quick to respond and although there were many errors from both sides a kick through bounced up nicely for Keswick to gather and score an unconverted try in the corner. Keswick followed this up later in the half with a penalty which was matched by Southport and it was 8 – 6 at half time. Southport had defended well and had the benefit of a slight breeze and with Keswick a man down due to a no arms tackle things were looking promising.

Keswick were quick to add to their lead despite the numerical advantage and with another penalty and it was 11- 6. Southport scrum were coming under increasing pressure but battled on gamely however Keswick were exerting their influence and scored a strong converted try and the match was slowly slipping away from the visitors. Two further tries were scored by the strong running Keswick backs who were dominant in the scrums. Southport continued to challenge but the Keswick defence stood resolute. The home team were just too strong and the match ended 30 - 6.

Southport were well served by an undersized pack who were dogged and determined with Jordan Caldwell ever present no doubt spurred on by playing with his sibling! Adam Wood and James Forrest ran strongly but Keswick defended stoutly.

The second team had a tight tussle with Leyland but after building up a good lead 12 point lead in the first half with tries from Col Fearns, James O’Keefe and Ryan Bailey they let Leyland back into the match. Leylend scored 3 further tries in the second half to run our 17 – 25 winners. Man of match was James O’Keefe.
There is no 1st Team game this weekend but the seconds are playing at home against De la Salle and it’s a 2.15 kick-off so get yourself down to support your club. The Colts play against Liverpool St Helens in the Lancashire Cup on Sunday afternoon which will be a cracking match.

This Friday evening is the family fireworks display and tickets can be purchased on the night from 6.00 with a 7.15 start.