Despite the weather Trafford MV battled hard to win Hoylake

By Wilf Dooley

In probably the worst conditions of the season so far Trafford MV welcomed Hoylake to MacPherson Park with strong winds and driving rain to contend with – both sides battled hard against the conditions and made a good match on the day.

Only the hardy spectators watched the game to the end as most were driven under cover for shelter and warmth.

MV scored early with a well rehearsed move, which has paid off a number of times, putting Jamie Kingdon under posts following a good inside pass.

Pat Eccles converted easily for an encouraging early 7 – 0 lead to TMV. Paul Davenport had to leave the field early with an ankle injury, however this did not upset the team as they began to show dominance.

Good driving play from the Trafford forwards resulted in Nathan Bailey ploughing over the line with the pack behind making him unstoppable. The conversion attempt from Pat Eccles rebounded off the upright to leave TMV 12 – 0 ahead. with half time approaching and the conditions even more atrocious more dominant forward play saw Micah Dyos break away from a driving maul for crash over to add to Hoylakes woes.

The conversion was missed and as the half time whistle followed shortly Trafford led by a comfortable 17 – 0. 

As the sides changed end it was looking ominous for Hoylake as the elements were now on Traffords back and surely an astute kicking game would pin Hoylake down and Traffords dominance would show even more.

This seemed on the cards as the visiting team concede an early penalty which Pat Eccles easily kicks to go 20 – 0 ahead. It was now that the pattern of play changed Tyler Stevens went off with a head injury which brought Joe Owen off the wing and into the back row.

MV were looking to be adventurous in their play but the poor conditions saw dropped balls, poor passes and missed tackles which gave Hoylake confidence. They gained more time in the Trafford ’22 zone and eventually scored from a No 8 pick up and drive. missing the conversion 20-5.

There was only going to be one winner of this game as the half went on, Hoylake had opportunites and Trafford did their best to help them at times, but the Trafford defence was strong enough and TMV hooker Craig Collier put the icing on the cake by touching down for a try once again following strong forward driving play. Pat Eccles added the conversion to close off the scoring at 27 – 5 to Trafford MV.

The remaining minutes were played out and Trafford were content to once again collect the bonus point and inch further ahead into a 7 point lead at the top of Counties 2 ADM Lancashire & Cheshire League ahead of Southport and 10 points ahead of Littleborough. Southport had a 15-0 home win over De La Salle but failed to collect the bonus point.

This weekend Trafford MV 1st XV are on the road to New Brighton for what will be a tough game. Trafford now have strength in depth to help cover for injuries and have good numbers training so will be confident of taking a strong side to take on the Merseyside club.

Trafford MV are once again fielding 3 teams this weekend , one of the few clubs locally still getting a 3rd XV out onto the pitch. Traffords 2nd XV will be hosting Littleborough 2nd XV for a 2.15kick off at M33 6LR. The 3rd XV are also at home this weekend with Congleton 2nd XV as the opposition.

Going into the New Year Trafford MV will once again be recruiting hard with a view to bolstering their title challenge at 1st XV level but also with a broader view of providing competitive League Rugby for local players who want to get back into the game and play for a Club that is continually investing in and adding to the standard of amenities it can offer to amateur rugby players.

The Club has excellent changing and shower facilities, fully kitted out members gym, physio and physio room, newly laid and drained 1st XV pitch, floodlit training area plus great social and recreations rooms and bars.

MV will be looking to add new local players to their squads at all levels in the men’s, women’s and mini/junior/teens sections of the club. If interested in becoming a part of our forward looking club contact Greg on 07834 857905 or drop a message to wilfdooley@virginmedia.com

Photo: Andrew Clegg in action