Trafford MV out gunned at Broughton Park

By Wilf Dooley

Trafford MV Rugby travelled the short distance to Broughton Park in the opening round of the Counties Community Cup and found the conditions and opposition too tough to progress any further.

In driving rain, MV conceded an easy try under the posts following a penalty for a high tackle; a quick tap and go score was converted, making it 7-0 to Park. Continued home pressure saw MV concede a penalty in the 22, duly converted to make it 10-0.

There were too many missed tackles and too many penalties keeping MV under pressure. Good hands gave Park a try to the right of the posts, which went unconverted, making it 15-0. Poor concentration and backchat to the referee resulted in a penalty for Park, increasing the score to 18-0.

Trafford edged themselves back into the game as a period of tight forward play saw a drive-over try from Chris Ward, converted by Aaron Booth, bringing the score to 18-7 at the break.

Park were pushing for the home win and scored under the posts, converting to make it 25-7, then conceding a yellow card immediately afterward. TMV sensed a chance and upped their efforts, which brought a second close-range driving try with Jamie Kingdon getting the touchdown for Booth to add the extras, making it 25-14.

Time was running out, and the last play of the game on this dismal afternoon for TMV saw centre Joe Walls breaking through and scoring to the right of the uprights to close off at 25-19.

Next weekend sees a break in fixtures to accommodate the Women’s Rugby World Cup Final. Trafford will then return to Broughton Park in the league the following weekend.

Trafford MV are keen to add players to both their men’s and ladies’ playing squads and invite local players to call in at the club to introduce themselves or to join in training on Tues/Thurs evenings at 7:00 PM.

Photo – MV Captain Aaron Booth