Junior Fixtures 20th/21st January 2007

Crigglestone All Blacks U15 10 v West Leeds U15 12

Crigglestone were unlucky to lose this pulsating match which was played in atrocious conditions as Richard Pearson was stopped inches from the line with the games last move.

The lead changed hands 5 times as both teams struggled to master the conditions, the visitors crossing the line first on 10 minutes when the home defence was streched wide on the right.  As the first half came to a close it was Crigglestone who finished stronger, and Rob Hallas was rewarded for some strong running as he crashed through the West Leeds defence.  Richard Pearson added the conversion to give Crigglestone a 6-4 advantage at the turn.

Although playing against the elements it was the home side who looked more dangerous early in the second half, with Man of the Match Billy Griffiths working tirelessly to drive the team forward.  Some good driving runs from Richard Moody, Tom Sutcliffe and Eddie Bennett made inroads into the visiting line, but it was West Leeds who took the lead againts the run of play 15 minutes into the half as they benefited from a break in play to score out wide. 

Despite their inexperience, the home team again showed tremendous spirit to strike back quickly.  A sweeping move saw the ball move the full width of the pitch for Richard Pearson to dive over in the corner for an outstanding score given the conditions.  The conversion proved impossible as the wind reached gale force, and when West Leeds took the lead again 5 minutes from time with a try in the right hand corner it proved to be the final score.

Rob Hallas took the coaches best endeavour award this week for some suberb tackling.  On Sunday the U15s entertain Eastmoor - Kick off 10.30.