Unable to play at Wilmere Lane Playing Fields – “Home of the Halton Farnworth Hornets” – due to the local councils ‘resting’ period for all council pitches, the game was switched to St’s Peter & Paul Catholic College, for a 11:30am kick-off.

For a friendly game, there were a good few number of spectators who turned up to watch – from both sides. Enduring some relentless rain, the spectators were not too disappointed by the performances of both teams.

With both clubs looking to shack off the cobwebs from the closed season, this was an opportunity for coaches of both clubs to take view the players in a competitive environment.

As this game unfolded, the HFH were first to score after five minutes, when some across field handling saw John Hensby go over in the corner. From the touchline, Pricey showed his kicking skills had not deserted him, as he neatly popped the conversion over.

Seventeen minutes into the game, and a strange kick on the sixth by Pricey, resulted in a bazaar four pointer for the Hornets. In the act of kicking the ball high, Pricey in actual fact, kicked the ball ‘backwards’. Having to turn about, it was Jack Williams who lead the way for the ball, closely shadowed by Crosfields players. Jack managed to pick the ball up clean whilst facing his own line, turn and run out wide and avoid the opposition players to score a real individual try. Pricey pinged the outside of the up right with the conversion.

By half time, Crosfields had managed to cross the HFH U16’s try line wide out in the corner and make the score line 10 – 04.

Second half, Pricey made a good break through the middle of the field and was unlucky not to score, when he slipped trying to side step the Fullback. But there was some good backing up by the Hornets and the ball was played out to David Meadows. A shimmering side step eluded the Crosfield players, and David was able to lay a short pass to Jordan Holland (up from the Fullback position and in a support role), to cross the line for another score. Pricey was just wide with the conversion.

Fifteen minutes gone of the second half and pricey put a chip kick in over the defensive line. The Crosfield Fullback was in a good position to collect but the pressure of the Hornets players caused him to knock-on. With the ball loose, it was swept up by Carl Mercer, who ran from the half way line to score under the posts. Pricey chipped the conversion over.

Five minutes later, and with the HFH U16’s players in a lull, Crosfields scored a try under the posts to make the score line 20 – 10.

With things hotting up a bit, Hornets were awarded a free kick. From the resultant tap, Mike O’Brien lunched forward with determination to score. This he did when his determination got him across the Crosfields try line in the corner. Again, Pricey obliged with a touch line conversion.

To round things off, pricey himself crossed the Crosfields try line under the sticks to add another six point to the final score line of 32 – 10.

Although the HFH U16’s ran out eventual winners, both coaches were not too concerned about the score line; they were more interested in performances and how as a team they performed.

The HFH team performance was exactly what coach Neil Meadows would have expected at this pre season stage. All the squad performed pretty well and it was exciting to see some individual ‘stand out’ moments in the game.

It was good to see Ste Shone returning from his leg injury which had put pay to the majority of last season. Ste had some good chances to show he’s not lost anything, and after a few games under his belt, he’ll be in the running for some personal honours.

In this game, the score line was irrelevant. It’s what the players and team put into this pre season game that mattered, and what the coaches got out of it that counted. With the HFH defensive line not breached several times, the HFH coach will no doubt be looking to strengthen that department in readiness for the start of the season.

Many thanks go to the St’s Peter & Paul Catholic College Deputy Head, Mr Phil Boulton, for allowing the HFH U16’s the opportunity to rearrange this friendly to a new venue, and to the associated Tennis Academy for allowing the use of their facilities after the game.

Regards also go to Crosfields U16’s for accepting the Hornets invitation to play a pre-season friendly and for a good hard fought contest.

HFH SQUAD:
Jordan Holland, James Giblin, Jordan Pennington, Daniel Price, David Meadows, Mike O’Brien, Jack Williams, Ste Shone, Thomas Spencer, James Parle, John Hensby, Brett Mikalauskas, James Purcell, Scott McCann and Carl Mercer.

The squad balance of players was unavailable due to holiday commitments.

07 Sept 08, Halton F H v's Latchford Albion

POSTPONED - Water logged pitch.

14 Sept 08, Woolston Rovers v's Halton F H

The later morning lay in had been much appreciated by the time this scheduled 11:45am kick-off fixture got underway. Those extra minutes in bed must have played favourably with the Hornets U16’s players as they turned out a first class performance against a bigger side.

Scott McCann set the stall out with some hard and direct running onto the ball. And it was Scott who timed a neat final pass to wing man Jimmy Hilton, who scorched his way to the try line from the halfway line. Pricey, whose kicking game was excellent, popped the conversion over from the touch line.

Fifteen minutes gone and the Hornets were off to a good start. But it was not one-way traffic as Woolston pounded the Hornets try line time and time again. It was only resolute tackling on the line, which provided the Hornets with an inspiration of confidence.

Never before had they played so conveniently and with such a great team spirit. Each Hornets player played for the next player by helping each other out. This was typified in both attack and defence.

Twenty five minutes into the game and the Hornets were attacking once more. On the last tackle, and right in the corner area, Pricey put in a cross field bobbling kick towards the sticks. With the Woolston Fullback fumbling the ball, Carl Mercer was on hand to collect and score under the post. Pricey converted.

Two minutes later, the Hornets found themselves in a similar position. Another Pricey high cross kick on the last was fumbled by the Woolston Fullback, and there on hand to collect and score in the corner was John Hensby. Once again, Pricey obliged with another magnificent touch line conversion.

With half time approaching and the Hornets getting penalised time after time, they found themselves on their own line, having previously been on the Woolston try line. A try was inevitable and that’s just what happened.

With half time only a cats whisker away, Jimmy Hilton received a yellow card for an alleged elbow.

The half time whistle was sound with the score line reading 04 – 18.

After the next ten minutes, Mike O’Brien, who was having a strong outstanding game, crossed the Woolston line but the referee adjudged the ball to have been dropped.

With Woolston taking a leaf out of the Pricey School of Kicking book, they pressed the Hornets line and put in a high kick on the sixth. But they hadn’t factored for Jordan Holland who neatly put the ball into the bread basket. For his skills, Jordan received a high tackle that caused some upset amongst the Hornets players. After a bit of sorting out, the referee showed the Woolston player the yellow card.

After Carl Mercer had been treated for another high tackle, James ‘Parley’ Parle scooted from the play the ball to make a fantastic break from the half way line. Beating man after man, Parley was ably supported by the ever running Mike O’Brien. Continuing forward and towards the Woolston line, Mike passed the ball to scorcher Jimmy Hilton, who made his brace of tries by scoring again in the corner.

Pricey was still up to the job and popped over what was thought to have been a great conversion over. One Touch Judge awarded the conversion, while the other declined. The Referee ruled a no goal.

This was a great performance by the Hornets against a highly spirited Woolston outfit. Towards the end there were a number of yellow cards (another two to Woolston and one to the Hornets) banded out for various infringements. But the Hornets didn’t let this get on top of them and a brilliant down field passing movement saw another Hornets try. This would have been the ‘try of the match’ made the referee not declared a forward pass on the last set of hands.

In the dying minutes a try was awarded to Woolston who scored in the corner while at the same time receiving the close attention of Jack Williams – over the touch line.

Scott McCann crossed the Woolston white wash only for the referee once again to have adjudged the ball had been dropped. By this point, the whistle was only two minutes away and on its sounding, the final score was 08 - 22

A great start to the season and a classy performance. If this is the start of things to come then the supporting parents are all going to be in for a great season of entertainment and victories.

This was a great start lads – keep it going.

Tries Scored:
Jimmy Hilton – 2
Carl Mercer and John Hensby – 1 each

Conversions:
Daniel Price - 3

Awards:
Man of the Match - Scott McCann
Best Tackler - The whole team.
Most Improved - Ryan Gardam

Final Score:
WOOLSTON (U16’s) 08 verses HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U16’s) 22

HFH U16’s Team:
Jordan Holland, Jimmy Hilton, Jordan Pennington, Daniel Price, Ryan Gardam, Mike O’Brien, Jack Williams, Ste Shone, Thomas Spencer, James Parle, John Hensby, Brett Mikalauskas and Scott McCann.

Substitutes:
James Giblin, Phil Smith and Carl Mercer

21 Sept 08, Halton F H v's Pilkington Recs

HFH U16’s turned in yet another superb performance against a tough St Helens outfit. Having home advantage and on a pitch which is in excellent condition, the Hornets players deserved every drop of water they could muster on this really hot and sunny day.

The Hornets players seem to have matured greatly since last season and are competing as a team. The work load is shared both in attacking modes and defensive modes. With each player playing for each other, the team spirit will do the rest.

Kicking off at 12:00pm, it was the Hornets who started the game. Without completing their set of six, Pilks knocked on. But it took the Hornets seven minutes to put the first points on the board, when Carl Mercer broke from the scrum. Running at the sticks, Carl committed three defensive players but was still able to get a pass out through the back door to supporting Ste Shone. Drawing the covering defender, Ste floated a pass out to Winger Jimmy Hilton, who slipped in at the corner. Pricey was unlucky with the touchline conversion.

Three minutes later, Carl Mercer decided to get his name on the score sheet when he scored under the posts. Carl needs to thank Jack Williams for that one, since it was Jacks strong and direct running which created the opportunity. Running hard and direct, Jack penetrated the Pilks defensive line to make good yardage. Getting held up, Jack off loaded and continued with the move to receive the ball back. Backing Jack up was Carl Mercer who accepted the final pass of the move. Pricey was good with the conversion.

Twenty minutes into the first half and David Meadows popped up with a bit of magic. The Hornets were attacking and close to the Pilks twenty two. On the last tackle, David took the ball and ran at the waiting tacklers. He then placed a neat chip kick over the defenders heads, gave chase, and re gathered the ball as it bounced neatly into his hands. All that was left was to stroll over the line and give Pricey an easy conversion.

This first have wasn’t all one way traffic and Pilks had some possible chances. On one such occasion, the Pilks players were looking to penetrate a solid and robust Hornets barrier, and on the last placed a neat grubber kick. There to collect near to his line was Mike O’Brien. Running hard as a prop should do, Mike gained the yards with two Pilks players hanging off him. Unwilling to cooperate and go to ground, Mike fought hard to keep his balance. Ironically, Mike was able to shake off the two opposition players, release himself, and continue to gain extra yards. This is typical of the spirit now present in the team.

With the scores at 16 – 00 the referee blew for half time and a welcome drink of cold water.

It was only five minutes into the second half when the Hornets were pressurising the Pilks line once again. All the forwards played their part in getting to the line, and on the last tackle, Pricey took responsibility. Thinking he was a Prop Forward, he ran onto the ball and into two defenders twice his size. Pricey’s commitment to score had the biggest heart, and he forced the two players backwards to allow him to cross the line. Pricey also kicked the conversion.

Pilks didn’t lie down and credit to them when they fought straight back to score an unconverted try.

Centre Ste Shone also wanted his name in lights and again, commitment brought him a try. With Pilks players clinging to his body, Ste had the strength to take the players with him to cross for a fine individual try. Pricey knocked the conversion over

This brought the score line to 26 – 04.

But it was Pilks who had the last word in the try department, when a large overlap was created, and the Pilks winger strode in at the corner. With a successful conversion the scores changed to 26 – 10 and remained that way for the remaining period of the game.

This has been a good start to the season for the Hornets U16’s, having two wins out of two. Let’s hope this does their confidence some good and now they’ll start to go from strength to strength.

Tries Scored:
Jimmy Hilton, Carl Mercer, David Meadows, Daniel Price and Ste Shone – 1 each

Conversions:
Daniel Price - 3

Awards:
Man of the Match: David Meadows
Best Tackler: Daniel Price
Most Improved: The whole team

Final Score:
HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U16’s) 26 verses PILKINGTON RECS (U16’s) 10

HFH U16’s Team:
Jordan Holland, Jimmy Hilton, Daniel Price, David Meadows, Mike O’Brien, Jack Williams, Ste Shone, Thomas Spencer, James Parle, John Hensby, Brett Mikalauskas, Scott McCann and Carl Mercer.

Substitutes:
James Giblin and Jordan Pennington

28 Sept 08, Halton F H v's Crosfields

FREE WEEKEND - Fixture cancelled.

05 Oct 08, Thatto Heath Crusaders v's Halton F H

On a glorious Sunday morning, the HFH U16’s travelled to Elephant Lane to the new home of Thatto Heath Crusaders. Now the occupiers of a brand new prestige club house offering top rate facilities, the Hornets took centre stage on the main pitch. Watched by a decent crowd, many taking advantage of the clubs prime balcony viewing area, the Hornets put on a show which they can be proud of.

With the return of Ryan Gardam into the pack, the Hornets gained the initial upper hand when they scored after only five minutes. It was Ryan who made a great break by bursting through the would be Crusaders players, and laid a smart ball off to Carl Mercer. Keeping the ball alive and gaining ground, Carl slipped the ball to marauding Mike O’Brien, who knows no other way than forward; to cross the Crusaders white wash for an excellent opening try. Pricey was unfortunate with the conversion.

David Meadows, who had a stormer of a game, showed his potential when he dazzled the opposition with a couple of quick side steps. Evading tacklers, he almost crossed the line but a fine tackle kept him at bay. Not grounded, David managed to slip the ball out to supporting Mike O’Brien, who crossed under the posts for his second try with twelve minutes gone. This time Pricey made sure of the conversion.

The keenest and determination of the HFH U16’s players was self evident today. Their sharpness, solid performance and ‘team work’ were a wonder to watch. When Pricey put in a fine kick on the sixth, the chasing Hornets players powered down on the Crusaders. Keeping them pinned on their own line, a ‘gang tackle’ took the big Crusaders Prop backwards over the line to force a drop out. That was the severity of the Hornets hearts today.

Marauding Mike (O’Brien) must have thought he was in for his hat trick when once again, that straight line he runs, took him and several Crusaders players over the try line. Unfortunately the referee, who was in a good position, adjudged the ball had been dropped.

A terrific break by number thirteen David Meadows looked like another try was on the cards but the final pass went to ground. But on the next attacking sortie, Pricey put a kick in which meant the Crusaders Full Back had to turn to get the ball. Breathing down his neck was Jimmy Hilton, who was obstructed by the Crusaders frantic Full Back. Pricey took a smart quick tap and darted for the white wash but was held up after crossing the try line.

Quick hands then saw Carl Mercer out flank the opposition when he scored out wide. Pricey was unfortunate with the conversion.

With half time fast approaching, a beautiful weighted high kick from David Meadows was superbly collected by Wing man Jimmy Hilton, who skipped across the try line unchallenged. Pricey was successful with the conversion to make the score line 00 – 20 on the half time whistle.

With only minutes gone of the second half, Carl Mercer was red carded for what the referee declared was a deliberate standing on a players arm when getting up from a tackle. Now down to twelve men, the Hornets had it all to do against a drummed up Crusaders side after their half time pep talk.

And it was the Crusaders who scored first in the second period, when one of their big forwards burst the Hornets defensive line. David Meadows retaliated when he made another fine break, neatly kicked the ball ahead, and gave chase to ground the ball over the line. This time, Ryan Gardam was unfortunate with the conversion.

Scott McCann, who has come on leaps and bounds, shuffled his way through a gap and laid the ball off to marauding Mike O’B. He held the ball before drawing the defensive line and feeding Jimmy Hilton once again who scored in the corner. Pricey must have left his kicking boots in the back garden gazebo because he missed the touchline conversion, which he normally kicks.

Jack Williams, another player excelling at this age group, made things a bit easier for Pricey when he latched onto the end of a short ball to score a well deserved try under the sticks.

The Hornets were excellent in attack and defence today and this was exemplified when Full Back Jordan Holland held up the Crusaders player over the line. Having only twelve players on the field made little difference to the Hornets, as they stepped their work rate up to compensate for the loss.

Towards the end, marauding Mike O’B made a fantastic break and laid off a neat pass to supporting Jimmy Hilton. Clear and with the try line at his mercy, the referee called him back and gave a forward pass.

With the final whistle imminent, the Crusaders collected a consolation try and goal right at the end to make the final score 12 – 32.

This was the second St Helens scalp the Hornets have claimed, after beating Pilks a few weekends ago. It must be said that ALL players contributed to a marvellous performance, which seems to be getting better and better, week after week. No wonder the scouts are now at most of the Hornets games.

Well done fellas, to every single one of you, and keep the good work up. It’s great to watch.

Tries Scored:
Jimmy Hilton and Mike O’Brien – 2 each
Carl Mercer, David Meadows and Jack Williams – 1 each

Conversions:
Daniel Price - 3

Awards:
Man of the Match: Scott McCann
Best Tackler:
Most Improved: The whole team (again)

Final Score:
THATTO HEATH CRUSADERS (U16’s) 12 verses HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U16’s) 32

HFH U16’s Team:
Jordan Holland, Jimmy Hilton, Jordan Pennington, Daniel Price, Ryan Gardam, David Meadows, Mike O’Brien, Jack Williams, Thomas Spencer, James Parle, Brett Mikalauskas, Scott McCann and Carl Mercer.

Substitutes:
Ste Shone and John Hensby (both used)

12 Oct 08, Halton F H v's Wigan St Patricks

On another glorious Sunday morning come afternoon, the HFH U16’s played out of their skins, and certainly kept the home supporters dithering and wondering right up to the final whistle.

WSP declared thirteen players and two substitutes, while the HFH U16’s on the other hand, only had one substitute. The accumulation of injuries, playing numbers reduction and birthdays, certainly meant the Hornets were struggling to find the numbers. But gratitude goes to those players who, although not one hundred percent fit, still adored the Hornets rugby jersey top and gave it their best shot. They didn’t disgrace themselves.

Pricey started the game with a long kick and the ferocity of the big lads from Wigan certainly made an immediate impact. Straight running, hard running and physic size were definitely to the Wiganer’s advantage.

As the game panned out, it became evident that these were two very good and evenly matched steams, if not be size, then by rugby league skills level. A long kick on the sixth by Pricey bobbed its way towards the WSP try line. Tremendous chasing by Jimmy Hilton then put him face-to-face with the WSP Full Back. Without hesitation, Jimmy grabbed the Full Backs legs, put his shoulder in, and drove him back over the try line to force a drop out.

The intensity of this game was Gillette cutting, with all the supporters totally engrossed by the standard of rugby put on display. This was exemplified when Pricey put on a bit of magic which had the supports aghast. Collecting the ball in the line on the half way line, Pricey sold a dummy and then feinted a little side-step, before deciding to chip the ball over the defenders heads. Giving chase and collecting the ball on the bounce, Pricey slipped out of a last ditch tackle to score under the sticks. His conversion made it 06 – 00 after four minutes.

David Meadows once again showed how much he has ‘come-on’. Side stepping several WSP players, he made good yards before laying the ball off to Phil Smith. With the ball quickly played, the HFH U16’s found themselves right in front of the WSP try line. After a couple of runs at the line, it was Scott McCann at speed, who broke the dead lock and scored a try to the left of the uprights. Pricey converted successfully to make it 12 - 00.

It wasn’t long before the Hornets were looking for more points. With a fantastic brake down the blind left hand side of the field, James ‘Parley’ Parle neatly scooped his pass to Winger James Hilton. Putting his head high to reduce the drag on his hair, Jimmy boomed along in the slight wind towards the touch line. He must have thought he was in but a marvellous covering tackle brought Jimmy down inches from the try line. On hand to take the play the ball was Parley, who dove over the line for another great try. This time, pricey was just wide with the conversion but the score were now 16 – 00.

The Hornets increased this by two points when they were awarded a free kick following the WSP players been penalised for pinching the ball. Pricey knocked it over the cross bar to make it 18 – 00, and the Hornets were flying.

On almost the half hour mark, Jack Williams was shown a yellow card for what the referee intimated was a late challenged. With only minutes of the first half remaining, WSP were able to score in the corner to make the half time 18 - 06.

Straight into the second half, and with the Hornets still down to twelve men, the WSP players didn’t miss the opportunity to score again. Some lazy tackling allowed St Pats to score in the corner. The conversion was missed and the score was now 18 – 10.

Fifteen minutes into the second half and the Hornets were awarded a free kick for a high tackle. Pricey elected to go for goal but just missed. At the same time, Jack Williams returned to the field.

The Hornets players knew that WSP were now looking for more points and a victory. Conciliating their play and remaining focused was the prime priority of the Hornets. David Meadows put in a little chip over the defenders heads and giving chase was Jack Williams. Collecting the ball, he was just snagged by the cottons of his socks; otherwise he would have definitely scored.

A slight break in the play was unlucky for the Hornets. David Meadows was felled after taking a tackle front on and attention was required. On the resumption of play, the Wiganer’s found a slight gap on the winger and went virtually the length of the field to score in the corner. The conversion was missed but now the Hornets were facing the wall with the score line now 18 – 14.

The referee said there was fourteen minutes remaining and both sides were vying for victory. It must be said that in this countdown period it was always the Hornets who looked the more dangerous, simply because they had most of the ball, and tried different lines of attack. This kept the WSP defenders thinking all the time.

And no team can perform without a good Fullback. The Hornets are fortunate to have Jordan Farrell, who today didn’t put a foot wrong. Everything that WSP could throw at him, Jordan was able to sustain. High kicks, grubby kicks, chip-over, long kicks, the lot. Jordan was unbeatable and played his part in his defensive contribution, as the other players did in their attacking play.

When WSP had the ball, the Hornets players tackled like demons. So much so, that the frustration started to spill from the Wiganer’s. An altercation by a WSP player in the tackle resulted in a free kick to the Hornets. On the tap restart, the same player repeated his actions at the play the ball and the referee had no alternative other than to yellow card the player, which was a pity because the game was nearly over.

Yet the WSP side weren’t finished. With only seconds to go, the St Pat’s team had a final offensive and pushed their way into Hornets territory. But these Hornets players are made of steel and weren’t going to let it go now. This was typified by Winger Jimmy Hilton, who made a great perfect ‘around the legs’ tackle to bring the WSP player to ground. He did this again on the next player and the next player. By this time, Jimmy was enjoying himself and almost on the other wing. A quick reality check clicked in his head and he returned to his rightful wing.

But this demonstrated and typified the enthusiasm within the team. All the players are playing for each other, talking to each other and certainly they are all enjoying the trip. Both the forwards and the backs are relishing each game and finding a lot of satisfaction, comradeship and enjoyment from this ‘team spirit’.

This was fantastic lads. Another gritty performance which bored out another hard fought victory and which leaves the HFH U16’s team stop of their league.

Tries Scored:
Danny Price, Scott McCann and James Parle – 1 each

Conversions:

Daniel Price - 3

Awards:
Man of the Match: Jordan Farrell
Best Tackler: TBC
Most Improved: TBC

Final Score:
HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U16’s) 18 verses WIGAN ST PATRICKS (16’s) 14

HFH U16’s Team:
Jordan Holland, Jimmy Hilton, Daniel Price, David Meadows, Mike O’Brien, Phil Smith, Jack Williams, Ste Shone, Thomas Spencer, John Hensby, Brett Mikalauskas, Scott McCann and Carl Mercer.

Substitutes:
James Parle

19 Oct 08, Chorley Panthers v's Halton F H

The HFH U16’s took to the M6 and travelled north this week to play Chorley Panthers. Travelling with the squad members were recent new signings Sam Slavin and Mike Andrew.

Their baptism with the HFH U16’s was a rousing success and resulted in yet another victory for the Hornets U16’s. They fitted in well with the style of rugby played by the Hornets and should strengthen even further the depth within the squad.

This was no easy win. Although the Hornets sit proud at the top of the table, and Chorley search for their first win of the season, the red hot favourites’ were the Hornets. In the conditions though, it was anybodies game but the Hornets managed the occasion in a professional manner.

The pitch was really heavy going and more suited to the large Chorley pack who liked their physical rugby. Fortunately for the away fans, they utilised the Chorley balcony which over looked the pitch and therefore didn’t have to contend with the mud and water puddles on the grassed area.

The first ten minutes of the game were spent equally in each other’s half. On the sixth tackle, Pricey lofted a high kick and when Jimmy Hilton came up with the ball, he was tacked just short of the Chorley try line.

With pressure sustained, the Hornets were awarded the put-in at a scrum. From the base of the scrum, Carl Mercer broke and headed for the Chorley sticks. Beating the defensive players, Carl was wrapped-up just short of the line but somehow managed to fling the ball out from the tackle. Backing-up superbly was another forward in the shape of Mike O’Brien. Latching on to the tossed ball, Mike collected and ground the ball under the sticks, only for the referee to adjudge the ball had gone forward. Nonetheless, it was a great break and a great bit of backing-up.

It was fifteen minutes of the game gone, when the vastly improved David Meadows beat several men and made an excellent break. From a quick play the ball, a strong running Scott McCann took the ball further up the field and towards the Chorley try line. Another quick play the ball resulted in Mike O’Brien bursting through defensive line to score a try with three Chorley players crossing the try line with him. Pricey clipped the ball over to make the score 00 – 06.

The Hornets were weathering many a storm on their own try line, as Chorley tried every trick in the book in an attempt to score. The Hornets players defended really well, particularly against the big Chorley players who attempted to burst the HFH U16’s defences while only inches from the Hornets try line.

From one such position, the Hornets collected a loose ball. Even after such a stint of tackling, Ryan Gardam was there first to collect the ball and he relieved the pressure by making a fantastic break to the half way line.

With the Hornets now playing some decent rugby, as conditions and circumstances allowed, they once again found themselves right on the Chorley try line. Taking a feather out of the Hornets tackling cap, the HFH U16’s forwards battered away but were unable to puncture a way through. But from one of the play the balls, the smaller frame of Scrum Half Brett Mikalauskas somehow managed to carry three Chorley players with him, as he crossed the try line for a great individual effort. Pricey once again obliged with the conversion to make it 00 – 12.

Half time was now fast approaching and with the Hornets in attacking mode once more, Pricey hoisted a high kick which swayed in the wind. With Hornets players giving chase, the Chorley Full Back struggled to take the ball and it went loose. There to pick up the ball was Winger Thomas Spencer, who neatly picked up the loose ball off the deck and dove across the white wash for another Hornets try. Pricey certainly had his kicking boots on today, as he made the half time score 00 – 18.

The second half was, unusually for rugby, a scoreless half. That’s no to say there weren’t many a chance to score a try. On several occasions the Hornets stern tackling was called upon as the Chorley forwards continually rammed away at trying to weaken the HFH U16’s defences but the Hornets players stood firm.

Jack Williams, who seemed to be involved in everything, ran onto a ball, collected it and then proceeded to run a line through the Chorley players as though they weren’t even there. This put the Hornets team in the Chorley half of the pitch. Close to the Chorley try line and on the last tackle, Pricey put in a speculative chip kick which amazingly, Phil Smith jumped for and collected cleanly in contest with the Chorley players. Maintaining his momentum, Phil was grappled by the defenders and stopped just inches from the line.

This was a gritty performance by the Hornets squad of players. The new boys showed what they can offer, with Sam Slavin proving his strength and determination in attack, while Mike Andrew contended with the big Chorley number eight player who tried to run though him.

In a game that was littered with errors and penalties, the Hornets were contented with the outcome of this fixture. Unfortunately, many of the penalties conceded by the HFH U16’s were as a direct result of their own indiscipline. Contesting the referees decisions, mouthing instead of ‘getting on’ with the game and frivolous infringements are not and shouldn’t be part of the Hornets U16’s game.

Leave the decision calls to the referee and those spectators on the side-lines. Play your game as normal with the talking taking place amongst yourselves in the form of encouragement and congratulations. Only with strict discipline and a professional approach, listening to your coach Neil Meadows and your own enthusiasm will this success story continue.

Another great win lads; you all played your part in another victory which consolidates the HFH U16’s position at the top of the NWC Division One League. Well done to all of you.

Tries Scored:
Mike O’Brien, Bret Mikalauskas, Thomas Spencer – 1 each

Conversions:
Daniel Price - 3

Awards:
Man of the Match: Jack Williams
Best Tackler: Bret Mikalauskas
Most Improved: Ste Shone

Final Score:
CHORLEY PANTHERS (U16’s) 00 verses HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U16’s) 18

HFH U16’s Team:
Jimmy Hilton, Daniel Price, David Meadows, Mike O’Brien, Phil Smith, Jack Williams, Ste Shone, Thomas Spencer, James Parle, Brett Mikalauskas, Scott McCann and Carl Mercer.

Substitutes:
John Hensby, Sam Slavin, Mike Andrew

26 Oct 08, Latchford Albion v's Halton F H

Awaiting Match Report.

Final Score:

LATCHFORD ALBION (U16's) 31 verses HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U16's) 12

02 Nov 08, Halton F H v's Woolston Rovers

The HFH U16’s got back to winning ways against a Woolston team they had already beaten earlier in the season. For some particular reason there was an air of disquiet brought to the field (and the side lines), which is not normally the environment portrayed at the Wilmere Lane Sports Ground.

The referee had his work cut out today with a multitude of indiscipline offences and awarding of penalties to the HFH U16’s team.

With the Hornets starting the game, it took them only six minutes to register their first points when Winger John Hensby crossed in the corner. Pricey tickled a beautiful conversation from the touchline, to make the score 06 – 00.

The Hornets maintained their relentless attack of the Woolston line and after ten minutes Sam Slavin was next to score a try. A good build up of play by the Hornets saw the ball reach Scrum Half Brett Mikalauskis. Reading the game well, Bret through a torpedo pass directly to Winger Jimmy Hilton and which flew in front of several Hornets players. Jimmy gleefully accepted the pass and made ground along the touchline line. With Woolston players upon him, Jimmy managed to get the ball inside to the supporting Sam Slavin who scored. But it wasn’t as easy as that. The strength and determination of Sam Slavin was demonstrated when he managed to score this try, by taking three Woolston players with him across the Woolston try line. Pricey was unlucky with the conversion from the touch line again.

After some sixteen minutes, the Hornets were once again on the attack, and coincidently the Hornets were awarded a penalty once again. Pricey elected to go for goal which resulted in another two points being added to the Hornets score sheet to make it 12 – 00.

In a similar attacking role to that which secured Sam Slavin’s try, Brett Mikalauskis tossed another corker of a pass to the out wide man Mike O’Brien. Running at pace, Mike O’Brien made a beeline for the Woolston try line. With four Woolston players hanging from him, Mike O’Brien was brought down only inches from the try line. Nonetheless, he managed to reach out and get the ball plonked on the white wash, only for the unsighted referee to deny him a try.

There were some block busting runs by the Hornets Forwards. So much so that the Backs too decided to give it a go and took up the mantle of making ground. This was demonstrated admirably by Winger Tom Spencer.

Just before half time, hard man Ryan Gardam once again broke the Woolston defensive line with sheer guts and determination. He managed to do a ‘Brett’ and slung a long pass to Jimmy Hilton who hogged the touchline as he made his way to the Woolston try line. Unfortunately Jimmy was just caught by his boot laces and another try was denied.

Hornets Full Back Jordan Farrell was constantly aiding the Hornets backs, by coming into the line and making the extra man. In one such case, Jordan offered relief for the Hornets by clearing the line. In the event of playing the ball, Jordan found himself on the receiving end of some knuckles, and to which he didn’t take kindly too,

In seconds, this incident resulted in none associated defending players deciding to display their own knuckles to none associated attacking players, and a bit of a free for all. The intervention of the coaches brought normality back to the field. After some period of stoppage, the referee spoke to the Captains and coaches of both teams. His last action was to yellow card a Woolston player.

With the score line still at 12 – 00, the half time whistle was sounded.

In the second half, the Hornets players did remarkably well to contain their anger as niggle after niggle was applied to each player. Unaffected, Scott McCann made a fantastic clean break towards the corner and at one point it looked as though he was on his way to scoring. But it wasn’t to be, as Woolston players managed to ground Scott. Playing the ball quickly, some intelligent passing across the attacking line resulted in Tom Spencer scoring a try in the opposite corner to that which Scott had been aiming himself. Pricey goaled another conversion from wide out and made the score 18 – 00 after eight minutes of the second half.

New player Karl Bradley got on the pitch when injured James Parle was treated, and Ste Shone took up the Wing role on behalf of John Hensby.

With twelve minutes gone, the Hornets were once again in the Woolston half of the pitch. Brett Mikalauskis made a dart of the sticks and was only just stopped by the Woolston players. A quick play the ball and Pricey decided he wanted to have a drop goal attempt, which coolly flew between the up rights. This increased the lead to 19 – 00.

From the restart, the Hornets kicked the ball straight into touch and a scrum resulted on the half way line. One of the Woolston players managed to cut through the Hornets line untouched, and sped his way under the sticks to score an excellent individual try, but the tackling attempts were really poor. The conversion made the score line 19 – 06.

With twenty minutes of the second half gone, the Woolston Winger managed to squeeze in at the corner but the conversion was unsuccessful but the line sore had shortened to 19 – 10. Mike Andrew was introduced to the game by Neil Meadows.

Towards the end of the game, there were some good breaks by Jack Williams who was ably supported by Mike O’Brien, who was unlucky not to score, but this maintained the pressure on the Woolston line.

Sadly, towards the end of the game the referee had to stop the play once again and to award the Hornets another penalty. This time the referee had had enough of the knuckle show, and produced his own right hook when he pulled the red card out of his back pocket. This was displayed to the Woolston player who continued to slur the Hornets players while slowly strolling off the pitch.

With time up, the referee blew his whistle for full time and the Hornets had managed to survive an onslaught of play by remaining cool under pressure. With feelings still high, the Woolston players immediately exited the pitch with the red carded player saluting the Hornets players and spectators, with an almost identical Winston Churchill configuration.

With the game over, all that remained was to clear the touchline of the debris intentionally left (as overheard) on the Woolston patch, and to go into the Hornets’ Nest for a feast of food.
Since not one single Woolston player or coach was feeling hungry, there was plenty to go at.

Tries Scored:
John Hensby, Sam Slavin and Thomas Spencer – 1 each

Conversions:
Daniel Price – 2
Plus
Penalty – 1
Drop Goal - 1

Awards:
Man of the Match: Tom Spencer
Best Tackler: Jimmy Hilton
Most Improved: James Parle

Final Score:
HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U16’s) 19 verses WOOLSTON (U16’s) 10

HFH U16’s Team:
Jordan Farrell, Jimmy Hilton, Daniel Price, Ryan Gardam, David Meadows, Mike O’Brien, Jack Williams, Thomas Spencer, James Parle, John Hensby, Brett Mikalauskas, Scott McCann, Sam Slavin

Substitutes:
Ste Shone, Mike Andrew, Karl Bradley (all played)

09 Nov 08, Pilkington Recs v's Halton F H

The rain held off for the earlier Remembrance Day Parades but it fired up with vengeance as the players took to the field. Although an 11:45am kick-off, the players, the referee and coaches/supporters of both sides, held a period of one minute’s silence as a sign of respect. It was impeccably upheld by all the players, as they stood in the middle of the field with rain pelting down on their faces.

When the game got underway it was pretty obvious that the condition of the pitch, and the prevailing weather, were definitely favoured by the big running Pilks pack. Playing up the middle to gain territory was their plan, and on several occasions, the strong forwards broke through the Hornets defences.

But it was the Hornets who scored first when, after five minutes and on the last tackle, Pricey put a little grubber kick in close to the Pilks sticks. Following the ball through the thinnest of gaps between two Pilks players, Pricey chased the ball. As it bobbled across the line it was followed by a diving Pricey who managed to collect neatly and an individual try. Pricey also made good with the conversion to make the score 00 - 06.

As the game progressed, the weather deteriorated and began to make the pitch much heavier than normal. Yet the Hornets players continued battle away in attack and defence.

On the last set of one of the Pilks plays, the ball was kicked long and was caught tight by Jimmy Hilton. Thinking he’d just been let out of the running blocks, Jimmy ran a ‘straight as a die’ line at the opposition, and carved his way through. The last grasp attempt by a Pilks player to stop Jimmy was fortunate for the Pilks side, since Jimmy was bee lining for the try line. On this occasion it wasn’t to be.

With the Hornets travelling fans congregated on a grassed slope and beneath some sheltering trees, the players became more and more unrecognisable as the game rolled on. In one of the first half attacks, the Hornets played some quick hands to move the ball from one side of the pitch to the other.

When a mangle of Hornets and Pilks players disappeared towards the corner flag, little was immediately clear until the referee blew his whistle and indicated a try. But who scored it?

With Hornets spectators on their toes, and umbrellas pushed out of the way to create a good viewing path, it was unanimous that Sam Slavin had scored a tremendous try. Pricey was unlucky with the touchline conversion.

Bang on thirty minutes the referee blew for half time, with the score line reading 00 – 10.

In the second half, the Hornets found themselves severely pinned down in their own half of the pitch, and much of the time this was with Pilks camped on the Hornets try line. Defend, defend and defend more was the order of the day in this half, as Pilks upped the ante and battered away at the Hornets defensive line.

Like true troopers, all the Hornets players put in a little bit extra and then more besides, to rebuff attack after attack by the Pilks pack of eight. They failed on two occasions when Pilks brought the score line margin to 08 – 10. This occurred fifty minutes and fifty five minutes into the sixty minute game.

When the Hornets gained possession of the ball they tended to treat it with disrespect, considering the dreadful weather conditions. Trying to lay the ball off in almost impossible positions, passing the ball at one hundred miles an hour and passing the ball longer than should have been tolerated, were all epidemical of the Hornets second half play. No wonder Pilks had most of the ball in this half.

On odd occasions the Hornets did manage to make it into the Pilks half of the playing area. On one such venture, Pricey put in a beautiful kick on the sixth, which hogged the touch line and ran towards and over the Pilks try line. There giving chase was Winger Tom Spencer, who made a texted book tackle around the Pilks Full Backs legs to bring him immediately to ground and force a drop out.

With the drop out, Pilks elected to go for a short kick out, in the hope of regaining possession. Unfortunately for Pilks, the ball never made the due ten yards and before anybody knew, the referee had awarded Pilks a free kick. In no time at all, the big forwards were back hammering away at the Hornets brilliant defensive line.

Withstanding the final flurry and bombardment by the Pilks team, the Hornets players were pleased to hear that final whistle and along with the Hornets spectators, celebrated a tough, vigorous but victorious result.

This wasn’t beautiful or champagne rugby but it did show the depth of feeling and spirit amongst the HFH U16’s players. They dug-in deep for each other, right up to the bitter end, to ensure a winning result was the final outcome.

It was tough today boys; the conditions, the weather and the opposition were all hard going but you all found that inner depth to fight for each other and that counts for everything.

Well done fellas – to each and every one of you.

Tries Scored:
Daniel Price and Sam Slavin – 1 each

Conversions:
Daniel Price – 1

Awards:
Man of the Match: Scott McCann
Best Tackler: David Meadows
Most Improved: James Parle

Final Score:
PILKINGTON RECS (U16’s) 08 verses HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U16’s) 10

HFH U16’s Team:
Jordan Farrell, Jimmy Hilton, Daniel Price, Ryan Gardam, David Meadows, Mike O’Brien, Jack Williams, Ste Shone, Thomas Spencer, James Parle, Scott McCann, Carl Mercer, Sam Slavin

Substitutes:
Phil Smith, John Hensby, Mike Andrew (all played)

16 Nov 08, Crosfields v's Halton F H

Travelling to Warrington to play another undefeated league team in the form of Crosfields, the HFH U16’s new another hard game was ahead of them. Especially when the Crosfields coach comments “He’s never seen the team (Crosfields) play so well!”

The Hornets took to the field missing some regular players. A bare thirteen were available for selection and no substitutes. A couple of Hornets players in reality wouldn’t have played had there been a full squad of players to choose from. These players were carrying injuries from the previous week but didn’t want to let the team down. They know who they are – and you still had great games.

So the writing was on the wall after only five minutes, when the Crosfields No9 sped down the middle of the field, without a Hornets player even touching him, to score the opening try under the sticks. 06 – 00 down and the Hornets body language was collectively pure negativity.

This reflected in the frequency at which Crosfields were able to penetrate the Hornets defensive line, either down the middle of the field or on the wings.

After fifteen minutes, the travelling supports thought the Hornets were fighting back when good passing along the line resulted in supporting Full Back, Jordan Farrell, scoring in the corner. Pricey was just short with the touch line conversation. The score was now 10 – 04.

Although the finishing score line portrays a one sided affair (and yes, at the end the Hornets were totally out classed), there were still some memorable opportunities for the Hornets to get points on the board.

Forwards Scott McCann, Jack Williams and Mike O’Brien were a thorn in the sides of the Crosfields tacklers, as they used every ounce of energy in their bodies to maintain the battle.

On one of the attacking occasions the ball was kept alive; it went across the field to Winger John Hensby who was tackled into the corner flag just before he could get the ball down.

By half time, the score reflected the play at 28 – 04.

Two minutes into the second half, and Scot McCann bulldozed his way towards the Crosfields sticks to cross the line, only for the referee to indicate he’d been held-up.

Fifteen minutes into the second half and the score line had crept up to 38 – 04.

Now with ball in hand and in Crosfields territory, the Hornets were awarded a free kick. Scot McCann seized the initiative and quickly tapped the ball and took it himself. Taking Crosfield players with him, Scott’s momentum was stopped inches from the line. Not out witted, Scott reached out and placed the ball on the Crosfields try line for what everybody thought was a legitimate try. The referee thought otherwise and gave a scrum down to Crosfields, claiming a knock-on had occurred.

And so Crosfields continued to score tries. They were able to penetrate the Hornets line at will, and having exciting legs, speed and the winning mentality, they punished the HFH u16’s team.

One piece of notable accomplishment for the Hornets amongst the doom and gloom of this defeat was an individual piece of play, which demonstrated a true grit and determined mind.

Nearing the end of the game, the Hornets were in possession of the ball and on the sixth. The ball was kicked deep towards the Crosfields sticks, but the Full Back was waiting to collect cleanly. Of substantial height and average weight, the Crosfields Full Back soon got into a charging gallop and was motoring.

The Hornets Full Back, Jordan Farrell, who had chased the kick and was first to encounter the Crosfield player, thought he could bring the big lad down. Unfortunately, Jordan miss timed his approaching manoeuvre and was simply cast adrift to ground with a big ‘hand-off’.

Everybody then thought yet another try for Crosfields was imminent, but they hadn’t accounted for the O’Brien factor!

Prop Forward Mike O’Brien, incensed by the way Jordan Farrell had simply and cheekily been handed-off (legitimately), gave chase. With the Crosfield Full back in full flight, clear and away, Mike had to make up some ground if he was to stop the Full Back from scoring. With the Hornets contingent of spectators roaring Mike on, that gap between the two players was shortening, and quickly.

For the Crosfields Full Back, the pitch must have seemed to extend itself with every stride he took, as Mike O’Brien’s determination could be heard in his ears. And then impact, as Mike brought the Full Back to ground with a tackle around his legs.

In one simple move, two elements of Rugby League were demonstrated. These were how to break the line when attacking, and how to never give up when defending.

You set a great example Mike.

As the clock approached its final destination, the Hornets team was depleted when Jack Williams had to retire because his injured shoulder was giving him too much gripe. And Sam Slavin had to leave the field when his injured and bandaged wrist took one too many numerous knocks and the pain had reached its threshold.

Yes, the HFH U16’s were well and truly beaten by a good side. Let’s hope that that particular Sunday was just ‘ONE OF THOSE DAYS’!

Tries Scored:
Jordan Farrell – 1

Conversions:
none

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

Final Score:
CROSFIELDS (U16’s) 50 verses HALTON FARNWORTH HORNETS (U16’s) 04

HFH U16’s Team:
Jordan Farrell, Daniel Price, David Meadows, Mike O’Brien, Jack Williams, Ste Shone, Thomas Spencer, James Parle, John Hesby, Scott McCann, Carl Mercer, Sam Slavin, Mike Andrews

Substitutes:
None