Trafford MV 1st XV slip up at Wigan losing by just one point

By Wilf Dooley

In excellent conditions at the weekend Trafford MV’s 1st XV arrived at Wigan in an optimistic mood with many of the previous week’s absentees back in the squad and Wigan yet to win a game in the league this season.

A mistake laden first 10 minutes, from both sides, culminated in aTrafford MV driving maul forcing it’s way over the Wigan line and a touch down by MV captain Paul Davenport, converted by fly half Louis Stubbs on 11 minutes (0-7).

Trafford then struggled to take control of the game and old defensive frailties reared up again as Wigan overlapped on the left and scored in the corner on 25′ (5-7). On 29′ Wigan’s no 4 received a yellow card for a high tackle on Kieran Edgar but 4 minutes later MV’s Sam Sheret was also penalised, and carded,  for a disputed trip and Wigan converted the penalty on 33′ (8-7).

Just before half time Wigan again took advantage of sloppy defence with another overlapping try in the corner (15-7) half time score

The second half started positively for TMV as Louis Stubbs broke through the centre and out ran 3 Wigan defenders to score under the posts which he duly converted on 42′ (15-14).

Amidst a very scrappy next 10 minutes a misdirected pass was intercepted by Zac Fisher the MV number 13 who promptly outpaced the Wigan defence to score under the posts on 51′ (15-21). But old habits surfaced again and Trafford MV conceded another soft try on 53′ due to poor defence (22-21).

Kiki Vatikiotis came on as prop to replace Jack Gobbett in the front row and after several good drives he was in the right place to score under the posts on 59′ (22-28). 

MV’s scrum half Joe Best was then given a yellow card after some back chat to the referee late on in the game. With injuries leaving MV down to 13 men it was now all about holding on but Wigan scores in time added on. With just the conversion to come Wigan were one point behind.

The conversion went over and the referee blew the final whistle and Wigan had won their first League game of the season 29-28.

This was a very untidy game for MV. Although they secured another 2 bonus points the seemingly endless mistakes are an unfortunate aspect of their performances which need to be rectified and soon.

There is now a break in League action until the next 1st XV fixture on Oct 15th at home against Eccles ko 3.00pm.

Trafford MV are keen to recruit local players who are keen to get back into, or take up playing Rugby Union. Teenagers are particularly welcome to come training and Senior players are encouraged to come down to the Club and say hello with a view to playing for one of our 3 senior teams. Contact wilfdooley@virginmedia.com for info

This weekend Trafford MV are hosting the South Of The River Beer Festival – a real community event – a premium event in the Club Social Calendar.

Open from 6.00pm on Friday and Noon on Saturday there will be good food, music and of course a wide selection of real ales to enjoy. Check Trafford MV’s social media accounts for ticker details or call in at the bar any evening this week. We look forward to welcoming our Local Community.