HFH U14`s got off to a winning start to the season but was tested by newly promoted Leigh Miners rangers who showed that they could cause problems in the top division.

After four minutes HFH produced some good attacking play and inter-passing between Lewis Hulme and Mark Percival put Andrew Sheridan over for the first try of the game, which he was unable to convert from an acute angle.

Constant HFH pressure pinned Leigh in their half of the pitch and six minutes later an up-and-under from Lewis Hulme was caught by Sheridan who immediately offloaded for the supporting Andrew Wainwright to score. Sheridan converted and HFH were cruising at 00 - 10.

Good defence by Leigh kept HFH out and a clearing kick downfield changed the course of the game. HFH knocked on and from the resulting scrum Leigh strolled in under the posts. With three minutes remaining to the break, Leigh was back in the game. Half time came with Hornets hanging on.

Leigh came out the blocks in the second half and after stealing the ball they moved the ball out wide to score in the corner to level the scores. With HFH on the back foot, Leigh dominated the next ten minutes but with almost their first attack of the half, HFH were given a penalty when Leigh were caught offside. From the resulting penalty, Ryan O'Brien charged over with Sheridan converting.

HFH then made sure of victory when Dominic Speakman dummied and forced his way over with Sheridan converting once again.

A win is always encouraging in your first game of the season but HFH U14?s will have to play much better when they face last year's league winners Blackbrook in a fortnight.

Tries Scored:
Andrew Sheridan, Andrew Wainwright, Ryan O'Brien and Dominic Speakman - 1 each

Conversions:
Sheridan - 3

Tackles Made:
Top tacklers were Andrew Sheridan, Andrew Wainwright and Mark Percival

Awards:
Man of the Match: TBC
Top Tackler: TBC
Most Improved: TBC

Final Score:
LEIGH MINER RANGERS (U14`s) 10 verses HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U14`s) 22.

HFH U14's Team:
Jack Owens, George McGrogan, Keiron Conroy, Andrew Sheridan, Luke Jones, Mark Percival, Lewis Hulme, Andrew Wainwright, Steven Ball, Lewis Whitty, Ryan O'Brien, Dominic Speakman, Andrew Crroks.

Substitutes:
George McDonnell

16 Sep 07, FREE WEEK

FREE WEEK

23 Sep 07, Blackbrook Royals v's Halton F H

Awaiting information.

30 Sep 07, Halton F H v's Oldham St Annes

In a devastating six minute spell, the HFH U14's scored three tries effectively settling this game but which everybody anticipated would be an evenly matched game.

Having not played for the last two weekends, the HFH's struggled to 'get-going' and back to their normal level of play and matters were not helped when the HFH U14's lost Scrum Half Lewis Hulme, who was carried off with a leg injury after only two minutes.

However, after ten minutes a long kick down field by Oldham was fielded by Luke Jones who made a great 50 yard break, which set-up the platform for Andrew Wainwright to score.

Two minutes later, Wainwright showed his remarkable pace and power by going 60 yards for his second try. Then it was the turn of Dominic Speakman who jinked past four Oldham players to score wide out.
With Andrew Sheridan converting all three tries Hornets were 18 - 00 and Wigan St Anne's looked demoralised.

To their credit though, the Oldham side regrouped and there was no further scoring until fourteen minutes into the second half when HFH capitalized on an Oldham lost ball and Jack Buck dummied to score under the posts.

With five minutes to go, Wainwright capped an impressive performance by rampaging through the Oldham St Anne's defence for his hat trick try. Sheridan converted again to make it five from five.

Hornets were rarely troubled and they will undoubtedly get better as the season progresses.

Tries Scored:
Andrew Wainwright - 3
Dominic Speakman and Jack Buck - 1 each

Conversions:
Andrew Sheridan - 5

Tackles Made:
Top tacklers were Andrew Wainwright, Alex Clare and Dominic Speakman

Awards:
Man of the Match: TBC
Top Tackler: TBC
Most Improved: TBC

Final Score:
HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U14's) 30 verses OLDHAM ST ANNE'S (U14's) 00

HFH U14's Team:
Jack Owens, Jack Buck, Alex Clare, Andrew Sheridan, Luke Jones, Mark Percival, Lewis Hulme (injured after two minutes), Andrew Wainwright, Steven Ball, Lewis Whitty, Ryan O'Brien, Dominic Speakman.

Substitutes:
Andrew Crooks, George McDonnell and George McGrogan

07 Oct 07, Rochdale Mayfield v's Halton F H [NWC Challenge Cup - Round One]

North West Counties Cup Competition - Round One.
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HFH U14`s started the defence of the trophy they won last season with ease against a spirited lower league opponents in the form of Rochdale Mayfield. Hornets soon got the scoreboard ticking over when after two minutes; a flowing move saw Andrew Sheridan pick up a low pass to score wide out.

With Hornets in total command it was just a matter of time before they scored again and on eleven minutes, Dominic Speakman ran 35yds to score in the corner. Sheridan grazed the upright with the conversion but soon kicked his first conversion goal after Andrew Wainwright score a magnificent 40yd try, which saw him round the defence wide out before placing the ball under the posts.

The next try soon followed when a well judged kick from Speakman was collected by Sheridan, who raced in for his second try but he again failed to convert.

Sheridan should have had a third try but after crossing the line, he tried to improve the kicking angle but just as he was about to place the ball down, great commitment by the Mayfield player saw the ball dislodged.

On the stroke of half time Speakman ran 50yds for his second try and Hornets went into the break 24 - 00 up.

The second half saw Hornets determined to repeat the first half performance but in their enthusiasm to throw the ball about errors crept into the game. However after six minutes of constant pressure, Wainwright crossed for his second.

The impressive Ryan O?Brien then rampaged over from 25yds for a well deserved try. A lost ball 20yds out then saw panic in the Mayfield defence and Stephen Ball pounced to score.

With Sheridan converting all three tries, Hornets were 42 - 00 up with four minutes remaining. There was still time for one final score and after some good passing of the ball, it was eventually fed out to Keiron Conroy who gleefully dived over in the corner.

Hornets will certainly face harder games in this competition but there were encouraging signs which suggest that it will take a mighty effort to take the trophy from them.

Tries Scored:
Andrew Sheridan, Dominic Speakman, and Andrew Wainwright - 2 each
Steven Ball, Ryan O'Brien and Keiron Conroy - 1 each

Conversions:
Sheridan - 5

Tackles Made:
Top tacklers were Ryan O'Brien, Dominic Speakman and Jack Owens

Awards:
Man of the Match: TBC
Top Tackler: TBC
Most Improved: TBC

Final Score:
ROCHDALE MAYFIELD (U14`s) 00 verses HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U14`s) 46

HFH U14's Team:
Jack Owens, George McDonnell, Keiron Conroy, Andrew Sheridan, Luke Jones, Alex Clare, Jack Buck, Andrew Crooks, Andrew Wainwright, Steven Ball, Lewis Whitty, Ryan O'Brien, Dominic Speakman.

Substitutes:
Nathan Dolan and Georg McGrogan

14 Oct 07, Halton F H v's Wigan St Cuthberts

This was a titanic struggle between two fully committed teams and the HFH U14`s emerged victorious thanks to the platform laid by their forwards along with the team's ferocious defence.

The opening exchanges were dominated by St Cuthbert`s who looked sharper but try as they might, they could not force their way over the HFH line.

After 12 minutes Hornets found themselves, for the first time, in their opponents 20m area, and on the last tackle,
Dominic Speakman put a short deft kick to the line which fooled everyone and he was on hand to pick up the ball and touch down. Andrew Sheridan converted and despite the Hornets forwards making important yards there was no more scoring in the first half.

The intensity did not lessen in the second half and it was clear that the next score would be very important. Speakman was agonisingly wide with a drop goal attempt, whilst a great kick down field by St Cuthbert`s saw their winger gather and streak down the touchline but unfortunately he had stepped into touch.

Further pressure by the Wigan side forced a drop out from Hornets which was gathered by Andrew Wainwright who broke 60 yards up-field. This led to Mark Percival reaching over to score but the referee harshly disallowed the score saying that Percival had not grounded the ball correctly.

With seconds ticking away Hornets attacked again and a long Jack Buck pass found Sheridan who scored in the corner. He was unable to convert his own try from the touchline but this didn`t matter; the game was now beyond the reaches of the brave Wigan side.

This was the HFH U14`s first biggest test of the season and they have not conceded any points in their last three games. This is a real testament to their defensive qualities and efforts applied.

Tries Scored:
Andrew Speakman and Andrew Sheridan - 1 each

Conversions:
Sheridan - 1

Tackles Made:
Top tacklers were Alex Clare, Ryan O'Brien and Andrew Wainwright

Awards:
Man of the Match: TBC
Top Tackler: TBC
Most Improved: TBC

Final Score:
HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U14`s) 10 verses WIGAN ST CUTHBERT`S (U14`s) 00

HFH U14's Team:
Jack Owens, George McDonnell, Keiron Conroy, Andrew Sheridan, Luke Jones, Alex Clare, Jack Buck, Nathan Dolan, Andrew Wainwright, Steven Ball, Lewis Whitty, Ryan O'Brien, Dominic Speakman.

Substitutes:
Mark Percival

21 Oc t07, Wigan St Patricks v's Halton F H

Awaiting information.

28 Oct 07, Golborne Parkside v's Halton F H

Hornets recorded their fourth successive win of the season without conceding a point in what was a tremendous team performance.

With two players away on representative duty and two others injured, the Hornets found themselves up against a much bigger team and with only thirteen available players. Nonetheless, every one of these thirteen players contributed to, and committed themselves to a fantastic performance in soggy conditions.

The Hornets tough tackling forced early errors on the Golborne`s attackers but the Golborne defence kept the Hornets at bay. Then up popped Steven Ball who dived over from a play the ball for a trademark try.

The Hornets then applied the pressure and a great Dominic Speakman break saw Keiron Conroy bundled into touch just fifteen yards short of the Golborne try line.

When the Hornets thought they had scored again after thirteen minute`s it was harshly ruled out by the referee for a knock on. However three minutes later, more pressure saw Mark Percival throw out a lovely pass to Conroy who scored in the corner. Andrew Sheridan converted from the touchline and the score remained at 00 - 10 until half time.

Golborne were struggling to break the fearsome Hornets defence and the next score was vital. It came in the first minute of the second period after a great Jack Buck kick downfield was swooped upon by Conroy who then scored wide out for his second try.

For the Hornets, Speakman, Ryan O`Brien and Alex Clare were outstanding in defence and attack and it came as no surprise that Hornets scored again. A great Speakman tackle forced the ball loose and the resulting pressure saw Jack Owens score.

Despite having no substitutes, the Hornets kept up the intensity right until the end when the Golborne`s defence cracked once again. Owens scored his second try, which was converted by Sheridan once again.

These was an outstanding team performance by the HFH U14`s who showed tremendous character and were determined to prevent their workmanlike opponents from scoring.

Tries Scored:
Keiron Conroy and Jack Owens - 2 each
Steve Ball - 1

Conversions:
Sheridan - 3

Tackles Made:
Top tacklers were Alex Clare, Ryan O'brien and Mark Percival

Awards:
Man of the Match: TBC
Top Tackler: TBC
Most Improved: TBC

Final Score:
GOLBORNE PARKSIDE (U14`s) 00 verses HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U14`s) 26

HFH U14's Team:
Jack Owens, George McDonnell, Keiron Conroy, Andrew Sheridan, Luke Jones, Mark Percival, Jack Buck, Alex Clare, Andrew Crooks, Steven Ball, Nathan Dolan, Ryan O'Brien, Dominic Speakman.

Substitutes:
None

04 Nov 07, Portico v's Halton F H [NWC Challenge Cup - Round Two]

North West Counties Cup Competition - Round Two.
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This was a tremendous Lancashire Cup, Second Round tie, played in foggy conditions, and which only got concluded with five minutes of the game remaining.

The early exchanges were even but on approaching the Portico line for the first time, the Hornets thought they had scored but the referee ruled a knock on.

After seven minutes, Hornets were awarded a penalty for a high tackle on Andrew Wainwright which Andrew Sheridan slotted over. Portico then applied pressure and the well drilled Hornets defence did well to keep them at bay. Unfortunately, after ten minutes Speakman was penalised on the last tackle and Portico forced their way over for the first try of the game.

This was the very first try that the HFH U14`s had conceded in five consecutive games.

Both teams tried hard to break through the hardened defences, which were both on top form, and it was only in the last three minutes of the first half that the game turned the Hornets way.

From a tap penalty, Speakman sliced through from thirty yards and rounded the full back to score. Unfortunately, Sheridan sliced the conversion wide.

Two minutes later, a long kick down field by the Hornets, forced Portico to knock on. From the resultant scrum, Lewis Whitty bulldozed his way across the line. This time Sheridan made no mistake and Hornets went into the half time break leading 06 - 12.

In the second half Portico played down the slope and they exerted a great deal of pressure on the Hornets defensive line. The pressure could only be relieved by long kicks downfield.

Portico could sense that the momentum was in their favour, and after Keiron Conroy had bravely defended the ball over his own line, Portico scored but crucially missed a simple conversion.

With five minutes to go the Hornets almost scored but Wainwright knocked on five yards from the line. He more than made up for this three minutes later when he broke from seventy yards out, and his shearing pace saw him score under the posts for the score which effectively won the game.

Sheridan converted and the Hornets were into the next round of the Lancashire Cup.

In a fortnight`s time, they face Blackbrook in a repeat of last year`s final. The Hornets will have to be on top form if they are to keep their hands on the trophy.

Tries Scored:
Dominic Speakman, Lewis Whitty and Andrew Wainwright - 1 each

Conversions:
Sheridan - 3

Awards:
To tacklers were Alex Clare, Dominic Speakman and Steven Ball

Final Score:
PORTICO PANTHERS (U14`s) 10 verses HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U14`s) 18

HFH U14`s Team:
Jack Owens, George McDonnell, Luke Jones, Mark Percival, Andrew Sheridan, Keiron Conroy, Dominic Speakman, Nathan Dolan, Steven Ball, Ryan O`Brien, Andrew Wainwright, Lewis Whitty, Alex Clare.

Substitutes:
Andrew Crooks, George McDonnell and George McGrogan

11 Nov 07, Halton F H v's Leigh Miners Rangers

The HFH U14`s survived an early scare in this fixture to maintain their unbeaten start to the season. Only thirty seconds had gone when poor tackling saw Leigh Miners Rangers (LMR) score a magnificent 60 yard try.

This was the very first try that the HFH U14`s have had conceded against them since the opening day of the season, when they faced the same opposition.

However this only served to waken up Hornets and some fearsome tackling by Lewis Whitty forced a knock on. From the resulting scrum the unsighted referee missed a Hornets knock on and two tackles later Hornets scored with Steven Ball burrowing over from close range.
Andrew Sheridan missed the touchline conversion but Hornets were now in command.

After ten minutes, good passing along the line saw Alex Clare dive over in the corner and this time Sheridan brilliantly converted to give Hornets a 10 - 04 lead.

Like many other teams this season LMR were finding it hard to break the Hornets defence and another thundering tackle by the HFH defensive line forced an error by LMR. Directly from the resultant scrum, Andrew Wainwright scored wide out after a powerful 35 yard run.

Hornets were now starting to dominate possession and a good offload by Ryan O`Brien, followed by a long Jack Buck pass, then saw Sheridan score the fourth Hornets try. On the stroke of half time LMR kicked over the Hornets defence for a well deserved try to make the score 18 - 08 at the interval.

To establish certainty of this fixture, the HFH team made sure that they would not be caught, when after only two minutes into the second half, Lewis Whitty made a powerful run down the touchline. Good handling and passing of the ball across the field saw Andrew Wainwright score his second.

Leigh MR was now definitely on the back-foot and the Hornets powerful forwards were taking advantage of this situation by making easy yards. A good break by Andrew Wainwright out wide saw the ball then move infield and a lovely offload by Jack Owens saw Mark Percival score under the posts.

Sheridan converted and was successful once again when Ryan O`Brien finished off another flowing move.

With five minutes of the game remaining, Dominic Speakman capped a fine display by slicing through a tired LMR defensive line to score wide out.

The HFH U14`s have now played five league games and only conceded 18 points. This is a testament to the great efforts that the whole team and coaching staff are putting into training sessions and every game. Well done boys.

Tries Scored:
Andrew Wainwright - 2
Ryan O?Brien, Andrew Sheridan, Mark Percival, Steven Ball, Alex Clare and Dominic Speakman - 1 each

Conversions:
Sheridan - 3

Awards:
Top tacklers were Dominic Speakman, Steven Ball and Andrew Wainwright

Final Score:
HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U14`s) 38 verses LEIGH MINERS RANGERS (U14`s) 00

HFH U14?s Team:
Jack Owens, Keiron Conroy, Mark Percival, Andrew Sheridan, Luke Jones, Dominic Speakman, Jack Buck, Nathan Dolan, Steven Ball, Ryan O`Brien, Andrew Wainwright, Lewis Whitty, Alex Clare

Substitutes:
George McDonnell and George McGrogan

18 Nov 07, Blackbrook Royals v's Halton F H [NWC Challenge Cup - Quarter Final]

North West Counties Cup - Quarter Finals.
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In a repeat of last season1s final, the Blackbrook side were emphatically swept away by the HFH U14`s team who were magnificent in every part of their game.

Played in heavy conditions, the early exchanges were even with Hornets finding it difficult to break out of their own half. They therefore resorted to a superb kicking game which Blackbrook failed to cope with and in no time Hornets were twelve points ahead.

After a Dominic Speakman kick was fumbled, Steven Ball found an enormous gap to score the opening try, which Andrew Sheridan converted. Six minutes later another long downfield kick found the Blackbrook winger under pressure from the chasing Keiron Conroy who gleefully capitalised on the error made and Sheridan produced a magnificent touchline conversion.

Blackbrook then started to come into the game and great defence by Luke Jones prevented two tries and Blackbrook were held up over the line on another occasion. However the Hornets line was eventually breached when the tall Blackbrook centre forced his way over in the corner.

This only spurred Hornets on and pressure close to the line saw Speakman deliver a peach of a pass to send Conroy in at the corner for his second try. Three minutes later Speakman`s boot downfield once again caused havoc in the Blackbrook defence and Jones touched down wide out to send Hornets into the half time break leading 04 - 20.

The biggest threat to Hornets in the second half could possibly have been complacency but they were determined to hang onto the trophy they won last year.

After four minutes, Jack Buck produced a lovely cross-field kick, which Conroy rose majestically for and plucked the ball out of the air to complete his hat-trick.

Sheridan was having difficulty adding the two points to Conroy`s try, since like most of the tries scored by the Hornets, the conversions were from the touchline.

Fortunately for Sheridan, he was left with an easy conversion when the powerful Lewis Whitty rampaged through the Blackbrook defence to score a well deserved try.

There was still twenty minutes to go and Blackbrook tried hard to crack the Hornets line but despite being extremely close on occasions, the Hornets defence could not be pierced. It will take a very good performance from another team to wedge the Lancashire Cup away from the HFH U14`s.

Whilst this was great team effort, the contribution from the likes of Speakman, Whitty, Wainwright, Ball and O`Brien was immense.

Hornets play Blackbrook again next week in a league fixture, which will see the St Helens side looking for revenge after such a comprehensive defeat.

Tries Scored:
Keiron Conroy - 3
Lewis Whitty, Steven Ball and Luke Jones - 1 each

Conversions:
Sheridan - 3

Awards:
Top tacklers were Dominic Speakman, Steven Ball, Andrew Wainwright and Mark Percival

Final Score:
BLACKBROOK (U14`s) 04 verses HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U14`s) 30

HFH U14`s Team:
Jack Owens, Keiron Conroy, Mark Percival, Andrew Sheridan, Luke Jones, Dominic Speakman, Jack Buck, Nathan Dolan, Steven Ball, Ryan O`Brien, Andrew Wainwright, Lewis Whitty, Alex Clare.

Substitutes:
George McDonnell, Lewis Hulme, Andrew Cooks

25 Nov 07, Halton F H v's Blackbrook Royals

HFH U14`s beat Blackbrook again but this encounter was much tougher than last week`s cup quarter final.

With the Hornets only having thirteen fit players, and their St Helens opponents looking for revenge, this was always going to be a difficult game but just like last week the Hornets raced into an early lead.

A high kick after four minutes was fumbled by the Blackbrook Full Back. With the HFH U14`s taking possession, some good passing put Andrew Wainwright over wide out with Andrew Sheridan converting. Seven minutes later a Lewis Whitty break set up another Hornets attack and a lovely Dominic Speakman pass put Keiron Conroy over in the corner. Sheridan slotted over another good conversion and Hornets were 12 - 00 up.

The rest of the half remained scoreless with the defences of both teams repelling all that was thrown at them and it was clear that the next try would be important.

Eight minutes into the second half, Hornets were penalised for holding down and despite heroic tackling on their own line Hornets could not prevent Blackbrook from squeezing over in the corner.

Blackbrook sensed that Hornets were tiring and swept down field again. A high kick created uncertainty in the Hornets defence and a quick pass out to the winger saw Blackbrook score again. With the conversion, Blackbrook were only two points behind and the momentum was definitely with the St Helens outfit.

However from the kick off the ball rebounded off a Blackbrook foot and was then picked up in an offside position. From the resulting penalty Hornets exerted good pressure and Steven Ball nipped over for a typical hookers try from the play the ball to score what proved to be the match winner. Sheridan converted once more.

With only eight minutes left, all the Hornets had to do was play basic error free rugby. This they did and once again they owed their win to a great team effort based on a magnificent defence.

Tries Scored:
Andrew Wainwright, Keiron Conroy and Steven Ball - 1 each

Conversions:
Sheridan - 3

Awards:
Top tacklers were Dominic Speakman, Andrew Wainwright, Mark Percival and Andrew Sheridan

Final Score:
HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U14`s) 18 verses BLACKBROOK (U14`s) 10

HFH U14`s Team:
Jack Owens, Keiron Conroy, Mark Percival, Andrew Sheridan, Luke Jones, Jack Buck, Lewis Hulme Andrew Wainwright, Steven Ball, Ryan O?Brien, Andrew Crooks, Lewis Whitty, Dominic Speakman

Substitutes:
None

02 Dec 07, Wigan St Patricks v's Halton F H [NWC Challenge Cup -Semi Final]

North West Counties Challenge Cup - Semi Final
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POSTPONED due to weather conditions.

To be played Sunday, 9th December 2007.

09 Dec 07, Wigan St Patricks v's Halton F H [NWC Challenge Cup -Semi Final]

North West Counties Challenge Cup - Semi Final
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To be played Sunday, 16th December 2007.

16 Dec 07, Halton F H v's Wigan St Patrick's [NWC Challenge Cup -Semi Final]

North West Counties Challenge Cup - Semi Final
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The meeting of the only two unbeaten teams in the NWC U14`s Premier Division saw the Hornets suffer their first defeat of the season and lose their grip on the trophy they won last season.

In cold conditions both sides settled quickly but the game was not allowed to flow due to an over officious referee.

With defences on top of each other, it was nine minutes before the first clean break was made when the Wigan loose forward beat four Hornets players before reaching over to score what appeared to be the first try of the game. Fortunately for the HFH U14`s, the referee disallowed it for a double movement.

However, the Pat`s were not to be denied when, three minutes later, good passing put the winger in at the corner. A great conversion saw the St Pat`s take a six point lead.

The referee had previously warned the St Pat`s players about holding down, and after a further offence, he dispatched a player to the sin bin. From the resulting penalty, the Hornets swept down field and Keiron Conroy was only just denied as he went agonisingly close in the corner.

The St Pat`s side then launched a counter attack of their own and only a great tackle by Jack Buck prevented a further try. Despite further Wigan pressure, there was no further score in the first half.

Hornets needed to get back level quickly and from the second half kickoff, St Pat`s knocked on. From the resulting scrum, swift hands put Conroy in at the corner.
A magnificent touchline conversion from Andrew Wainwright made it six apiece and the Hornets at last, started to get on top.

Steven Ball was held up over the line and Conroy was yet again denied by some last ditch tackling. The referee then sin binned Steven Ball for holding down and from the resulting penalty, St Pat`s edged into the lead.

With nineteen minutes left, it was still anyone`s game and both sides breached the first lines of the opposition`s defences, only for strong tackling to deny tries.

Wainwright was held up just inches from the line and then St Pat`s seemed to have scored with only six minutes left. Once again, the referee deemed that the ball had not been grounded.
Hornets then threw everything they had at the St Pat`s team, in endeavours to clinch a win and get to the final. But it wasn?t to be, and St Pat`s held on for what was a deserved victory.

Tries Scored:
Conroy - 1

Conversions:
Wainwright - 1

Awards:
Top tacklers were Dominic Speakman, Andrew Wainwright, Mark Percival and Lewis Whitty

Final Score:
HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U14`s) 06 verses WIGAN ST PATRICK?S (U14`s) 08

HFH U14`s Team:
Jack Owens, Keiron Conroy, Mark Percival, Andrew Wainwright, Luke Jones, Jack Buck, Lewis Hulme Nathan Dolan, Steven Ball, Ryan O`Brien, Lewis Whitty, Alex Clare, Dominic Speakman

Substitutes:
Andrew Crooks, George McDonnell

06 Jan 08, Halton F H v's Wigan St Patricks

HFH U14`s recovered from a sluggish first half display to remain unbeaten in the league but they were made to fight all the way by a determined Oldham side.

The start of the game gave no indication of what was to follow as Hornets dominated the first few minutes of play but a delayed pass was swooped upon ninety yards out and St Anne`s scored a great interception try. The Oldham side gained in confidence but after fifteen minutes Hornets pressure resulted in Steven Ball scoring a typical hooker`s try when he dummied and went through a gap to get Hornets back on level terms.

However from the kick off Hornets were tackled into touch and from the resulting scrum Oldham applied the pressure to score again and go six points ahead.

Mark Percival then went close for Hornets but was injured in the process and with no substitutes available it was important that the HFH U14`s players didn`t concede any more points before the break. Unfortunately that wasn`t the case and the twelve Hornets players were unable to hold on, and St Anne`s scored a good try close to the posts to go in at half time 16 - 04 ahead.

At the start of the second half, the Hornets had to score the first try to stand any chance of getting back into the game. This they did in some style when Alex Clare cut inside from forty yards out, and scored under the posts. Andrew Wainwright converted for the extra points. With only four minutes of the second half period gone, this was just the start the HFH U14`s were looking for.

It was Andrew Wainwright who scored the next try three minutes later. Following a magnificent Dominic Speakman break, supporting Andrew Wainwright was fed a pass that sent him in from 35 yards. Twelve points in seven minutes saw Hornets level the score line and the Oldham team couldn?t handle the Hornets revival.

Mark Percival bravely returned to the field and after an Andrew Wainwright break, it was mark Percival who produced a good pass for Luke Jones to score in the corner.

With five minutes of the game remaining, Mark Percival scored himself when a lovely pass from Dominic Speakman put him over wide out. Andrew Wainwright converted from the touchline and with four minutes left, Hornets were ten points ahead.

To St Anne`s credit they never gave up and right on full time they scored after Hornets had lost the ball close to their line.

With five players missing through injury and holidays plus two debutants, this was a gutsy performance by the whole team. The HFH U14`s will have to perform and play a lot better than this if they are to maintain their unbeaten run in the Premier League.

Tries Scored:
Alex Clare, Andrew Wainwright, Luke Jones and Mark Percival - 1 each

Conversions:
Wainwright - 3

Awards:
Top tacklers were Dominic Speakman, Alex Clare and Steven Ball.

Final Score:
OLDHAM ST ANNE`s (U14`s) 22 verses HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U14`s) 26

HFH U14`s Team:
Jack Owens, Nick Rigby, Mark Percival, Will Hughes, Luke Jones, Jack Buck, Lewis Hulme, Andrew Wainwright, Steven Ball, Nathan Dolan, Lewis Whitty, Alex Clare, Dominic Speakman

Substitutes:
None

13 Jan 08, Halton F H v's Waterhead

Unbeaten top of the league HFH U14`s were at home to Waterhead, who had not won a league game this season. On the cards, it looked like a regulation two points for the Hornets but they were made to battle all the way by a well organised Oldham side that belied their lowly position.

In wet muddy conditions it was Waterhead who scored first when, from a scrum 70 yards out, the Waterhead Standoff scored a superb solo try to put the Hornets six points down after only four minutes Hornets.

Hornets tried hard to get back in the game but made many mistakes against a defence which was determined to keep them out. The first half remained scoreless due to a combination of the conditions and resolute tackling.

After stern words at half time, Hornets opened the second half much brighter and Waterhead started to make errors from the incessant pressure. A high kick was knocked on and from the resulting scrum good passing along the line put Luke Jones in at the corner. In difficult conditions Andrew Wainwright failed to convert but Hornets now had their tails up.

Another good passing move was harshly brought back by the referee for a forward pass but despite their added pressure Hornets could not score. With ten minutes remaining, a high tackle on Andrew Wainwright resulted in a penalty from which Steven Ball looked to have gone over but was just short. A minute later, Lewis Whitty powered over and Andrew Wainwright converted.

Two minutes later the game was won when, from a knock on in front of the posts, Lewis Whitty used his strength to score under the posts. Andrew Wainwright kicked his second conversion to complete the scoring.

This was the second week in succession that the Hornets have failed to hit their pre Christmas form and the final score flattered them. The HFH U14`s will find Waterhead looking for revenge next week in the return fixture.

Tries Scored:
Lewis Whitty – 2
Luke Jones - 1

Conversions:
Andrew Wainwright - 2

Awards:
Top tacklers were Alex Clare, Nathan Dolan, Steven Ball and Lewis Whitty

Final Score:
HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U14’s) 16 verses WATERHEAD (U14’s) 06

HFH U14’s Team:
Jack Owens, Will Hughes, Lewis Whitty, Andrew Wainwright, Luke Jones, Jack Buck, Lewis Hulme, Nathan Dolan, Steven Ball, Ryan O’Brien, Andrew Crooks, Alex Clare, Dominic Speakman

Substitutes:
George McGrogan, Keiron Conroy, Nick Rigby

20 Jan 08, Waterhead v's Halton F H

HFH U14`s faced Waterhead for the second week and credit to both teams who put on a great display in spite of the awful weather conditions.

The early stages saw the teams trying to get accustomed to the heavy conditions but Hornets were the first to score when a great kick by Lewis Hulme was chased by Keiron Conroy who took advantage of the hesitancy in the defence to score in the corner.

This shook the home side who then conceded another try two minutes later when Dominic Speakman raced away from 70 yards for a great touchdown. Andrew Wainwright converted and Hornets had raced into a 00 - 10 lead.

Waterhead fought back after a long kick downfield was defended poorly and they scored wide out. A great touchline conversion cut the deficit to 4 points.

It was end to end stuff with the handling exceptional in the difficult conditions but the kicking game was proving significant and another Hulme kick was fumbled over the line and Will Hughes dropped on the ball to score. Another Wainwright conversion gave Hornets restored the ten point lead.
Just before half time, Jack Buck was sin binned and Hornets knew that they would face a struggle at the start of the second half.

The second half started with a poor refereeing decision. Hornets were trying to come away from their own line when they knocked on and the referee blew loud and clear. The Hornets players stopped and Waterhead picked the ball up and placed the ball over the line.

To the Hornets amazement, the try was given and Hornets were then only four points ahead.

Buck returned to the field but Alex Clare had to leave with a recurring arm injury, leaving the Hornets with twelve men for the remainder of the game.

The reduction in numbers was not noticeable but Hornets were able to sweep up field, and a lovely passing movement saw forward Ryan O’Brien pop up on the wing to dive over in the corner.

Waterhead tried to get back in the game but resolute Hornets defence kept them out and with five minutes to go, a powerful Lewis Whitty drive set up the position for Hornets to score their fifth try when Mark Percival cut inside to score.

With a twelve point lead, Hornets had effectively won the game, however Waterhead battled away and a scored a magnificent try when their winger ran 65 yards in the final minute to score under the posts.

Hornets played with twelve men for thirty minutes of the second half and considering the awful conditions, and a reorganised team due to injuries, they deserve great credit for a gutsy workmanlike performance.

Tries Scored:
Keiron Conroy, Dominic Speakman, Will Hughes, Ryan O’Brien and Mark Percival – 1 each

Conversions:
Andrew Wainwright - 2

Awards:
Top tacklers were Dominic Speakman, Andrew Wainwright and Mark Percival

Final Score:
WATERHEAD (U14’s) 18 verses HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U14’s) 24

HFH U14’s Team:
Jack Owens, Will Hughes, Mark Percival, Keiron Conroy, Nick Rigby, Jack Buck, Lewis Hulme, Ryan O’Brien, Alex Clare, Lewis Whitty, Andrew Wainwright, Andrew Crooks, Dominic Speakman

Substitutes:
None

27 Jan 08, ?

Awaiting information.

03 Feb 08, Shaw Cross v's Halton F H NATIONAL CUP ROUND TWO

BARLA NATIONAL CUP ROUND TWO.

HFH U15`s ventured into Yorkshire for their first game in this year’s National Cup Competition and they came away with a convincing win against their Dewsbury opponents.

Hornets were immediately on the attack and in the second minute, a good passing movement saw Mark Percival score wide out. Straight from the kick off Andrew Wainwright scored a great solo try from seventy five yards, which he converted.

Shaw Cross kicked off for the third time and yet another try followed when Dominic Speakman gave a lovely pass for Andrew Sheridan to score. Another restart, another try and this time it was Lewis Whitty who raced in from seventy five yards. Wainwright converted and after only eight minutes, it was 00 - 20 and looking as though it was going to be a landslide.

However to their credit, Shaw Cross rallied and after nineteen minutes produced a flowing movement covering sixty yards for a well deserved try and an impressive touchline conversion narrowed the gap to fourteen points. With no further scoring in the half, Hornets knew they could not ease up as they were playing against the strong wind in the second half.

The second half started badly for the Hornets when Speakman was sin binned for an offence he did not commit and it was the real perpetrator, Lewis Whitty, who then produced a lovely deft cross field kick for a prop forward, which saw Wainwright score in the corner. His conversion attempt hit the cross bar.

Three minutes later, Wainwright was successful after Whitty raced in from sixty yards to score under the posts.

Hornets were well in control and as Shaw Cross attempted to break out of their own half, Lewis Hulme snatched the ball and three tackles later Wainwright completed his hat trick and kicked his fourth goal.

With only three minutes to go, another Hornets attack saw Hulme put Sheridan in for his second and complete the scoring. It is always difficult for teams travelling into another region, since they do not know what standard of rugby the team plays at but Hornets started this game with the right attitude and effectively finished the game after ten minutes.

HFH U14’s now face a long trip to South Wales in the next round of the BARLA National Cup when they will face “Neath Port Talbot Steelers.”

Tries Scored:
Andrew Wainwright – 3
Lewis Whitty, Andrew Sheridan and Mark Percival – 2 each

Conversions:
Andrew Wainwright - 4

Awards:
Top tacklers were Dominic Speakman, Andrew Wainwright and Lewis Hulme

Final Score:
SHAW CROSS SHARKS (U14’s) 06 verses HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U14’s) 40.

HFH U14’s Team:
Jack Owens, Will Hughes, Mark Percival, Andrew Sheridan, Luke Jones, Jack Buck, Lewis Hulme, Andrew Wainwright, Steven Ball, Lewis Whitty, Ryan O’Brien, Andrew Crooks, Dominic Speakman

Substitutes:
Nick Rigby, Keiron Conroy, Nathan Dolan, Alex Clare

10 Feb 08, ?

Awaiting information.

17 Feb 08, Neath Port Talbot Steelers v's Halton F H NATIONAL CUP ROUND THREE

BARLA NATIONAL CUP ROUND THREE

The long trip to South Wales proved worthwhile as Hornets moved into the quarter final of the National Cup but they were made to fight all the way by a much bigger and more physical Steelers side.

Hornets soon got into their stride and Andrew Wainwright and Mark Percival went close but superb defence kept them out. After eleven minutes, Steven Ball made some good yards and on the next tackle Wainwright forced his way over wide out.

Straight from the kick off, Hornets spread the ball and Wainwright used his pace from fifty five yards to score under the posts. He converted his own try and it looked as though Hornets had taken command. However, Steelers hit back immediately to score but failed with the simple conversion.

The big Welsh team were now making inroads into the Hornets defence and further pressure resulted in Andrew Sheridan having to kick the ball dead. Hornets had one last attack in the first half, which saw them given a penalty for offside, but missed the opportunity to increase the lead and Hornets went into the break six points up.

The second half started dramatically when after only two minutes, Steelers kicked the ball down field. It was fumbled by Hornets and picked up by the home side to race forty yards to score in the corner. Five minutes later, Steelers created an overlap and again went in at the corner and despite not converting any tries they had edged into a two point lead.

Hornets were clearly rattled and they responded immediately. Having been awarded a penalty for ‘flopping’, Steven Ball darted forward and a couple of tackles later, Jack Owens scored. The conversion just missed from wide out but importantly Hornets were now in the lead.

Unfortunately the lead only lasted five minutes as Hornets lost the ball and Steelers raced under the posts to lead 18 - 14 with nine minutes left. Realisation then seemed to hit the Hornets that they might actually lose this game and they reacted superbly by attacking with gusto.

Dominic Speakman made a great break and offloaded to Andrew Wainwright who went over for his hat trick. With the touchline conversion unsuccessful, and it looked as though extra time was looming.

With two minutes left, good strong runs by Lewis Whitty, Andrew Speakman and Andrew Wainwright gave Hornets a good position. They then swung the ball across the field and Sheridan gleefully went over to settle the tie.

Hornets went to South Wales not knowing what to expect. Steelers fielded a big team whose players usually played Rugby Union and therefore it is to their credit that they nearly caused an upset. Hornets upped their game when they needed to but they will have to play more consistently when they travel to Ryland’s for next week’s quarter final tie.

Tries Scored:
Andrew Wainwright – 3
Jack Owens and Andrew Sheridan – 1 each

Conversions:
Andrew Wainwright - 1

Awards:
Top tacklers were Dominic Speakman and Andrew Wainwright

Final Score:
NEATH PORT TALBOT STEELERS (U14’s) 18 verses HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U14’s) 22

HFH U14’s Team:
Jack Owens, Will Hughes, Mark Percival, Andrew Sheridan, Luke Jones, Jack Buck, Lewis Hulme, Andrew Wainwright, Steven Ball, Lewis Whitty, Ryan O’Brien, Nathan Dolan, Dominic Speakman

Substitutes:
Nick Rigby, Keiron Conroy, Andrew Crooks, Alex Clare

24 Feb 08, Rylands v's Halton F H NATIONAL CUP QUARTER FINALS

BARLA NATIONAL CUP QUARTER FINALS - 12:15pm kick-off.

This quarter final tie saw the leaders of the Premier Division (HFH U14’s) against the top team in Division One and in a pulsating game Hornets deservedly reached the semis but were made to fight all the way by their Warrington opponents.

Once again, the Hornets found themselves playing a much bigger side but defensively they were superb, repelling everything that the Ryland’s forwards could throw at them. The first half saw the HFH U14’s dominate territory but they found it hard to pierce a Ryland’s team who were just as resilient.

It took thirteen minutes for the first score to arrive when a break by Andrew Wainwright on the left, gave Hornets a good position to attack. They swiftly moved the ball along the line and the final pass saw Andrew Sheridan go over in the corner.

Hornets then tried to press home their advantage but Ryland’s were determined not to concede further points and towards the end of the first half, they were camped on the Hornets line but could find no way through a blanket defence.

Start of the second half saw the Hornets make an immediate break through the first line of defence. Dominic Speakman was tackled just short of the line and following a misdemeanour at the play the ball, Hornets were awarded a penalty. Ryan O’Brien cheekily dived over and Hornets were eight points up.

Minutes later Speakman launched a big kick down field and Lewis Whitty tackled the Ryland’s full back into touch to set up a great attacking position but Hornets knocked on. Ryland’s then started to come into the game and it was clear that the next score was all important. Hornets started to concede penalties and the big Ryland’s forwards battered away at the Hornets line but magnificent defence kept them out.

With five minutes left, Speakman saw a drop goal attempt go just wide but it did not matter as they held on for a great win.

Hornets will no doubt play Ryland’s again next season as the Warrington side will be promoted. They were worthy opponents but Hornets turned in their best performance for some weeks and will be hoping for a home draw in the Semi Finals of the BARLA National Cup.

HFH U14's are one of the two only remaining North West Counties clubs remaining in the BARLA National Cup. The other is Wigan St Patricks. The other area clubs making up the quartet of teams are Kells and Castleford Lock Lane.

Tries Scored:
Andrew Sheridan and Ryan O’Brien – 1 each

Conversions:

Awards:
Top tacklers were Dominic Speakman, Lewis Whitty, Andrew Wainwright and Alex Clare.

Final Score:
RYLAND SHARKS (U14’s) 00 verses HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U14’s) 08

HFH U14’s Team:
Andrew Sheridan, Will Hughes, Mark Percival, Keiron Conroy, Luke Jones, Jack Buck, Lewis Hulme, Andrew Wainwright, Steven Ball, Lewis Whitty, Ryan O’Brien, Alex Clare and Dominic Speakman.

Substitutes:
Jack Owens, Nick Rigby, Keiron Conroy and Andrew Crooks.