Trafford MV’s Struggles Continue: Key Match Insights

Match report by Wilf Dooley

Trafford MV’s plight at the relegation end of the table continued on Saturday as a bright start faltered and a significant result ensued. After heavy rain and sleet before the game the clouds parted and bright sunshine came through although a strong breeze carried through the game. 

Trafford started in good form and were first on the scoreboard as confident play and continuous pressure saw centre Chris Ward score for a 0-5 lead, this advantage was held for 20 mins until Aldwinian’s got their game going. As the tempo mounted MV’s defence lacked the cutting edge to stop players in their tracks and good support play then created the damage. Three tries came for the home side before the half time break and although still competitive TMV trailed 17-5.

Through the second half the home side continued to press and injuries mounted for Trafford with the bench being fully used much earlier than anticipated. The score crept upwards as TMV’s defence was stretched. Winger Oscar Livings scored twice for Trafford when he managed to use his pace in open field, Luke O’Shea converted both but apart from this the home side owned the second half.

Trafford shuffled players to cope with the injuries and fought hard to see the game out pushing for that 4th try and a bonus point which unfortunately never came. Another spirited performance but yet another defeat which does nothing for their survival prospects. A final score of 47-19 was a just reward to the home side.

Trafford now have the Easter break to regroup before Aspull come to MacPherson Park for a real survival battle with both sides in the bottom 3, this could be TMV’s last chance saloon with only three games left to play.

Photo of opening Try Scorer Chris Ward

Image: Ian Rogers