BackSat 05 Jan 2019 · Premier Division
Sedgley Park 2nd XV
2nd XV
64
7
PLUCKY PERFORMANCE.
Stuart Vernon8 Jan 2019 - 08:07
Over the years there has never been an easy ride at Park Lane.
For the second time this season the Vale were confronted by a Sedgley Park side that had a fair sprinkling of skill and pace in and amongst its threequarters who were sharp enough to exploit any error their opponents made. Plus they had the ability launch a counter attack from any part of the field, and took full advantage of any opportunities that presented themselves. Perhaps the final score line flattered the home side and did not truly reflect the tremendous effort the Vale put in.
Sedgley shot away to the perfect start running in three tries in the opening quarter of an hour to establish a 17-0 lead. Gradually the seconds stabilised their game, tightened up their defence with the forwards begin to exert some pressure. Unfortunately any mistake was seized upon with relish as was highlighted in the twenty fifth minute when one of Park’s centres sliced through for a converted try.
Just before half time the Vale ensured there would be no whitewash with a well constructed score. The ball was moved confidently crossfield and back again before Harry Finan touched down for the try which Alex Briggs converted.
The second half witnessed Park banking points at regular intervals but despite the ever rising score against them the seconds battled hard until the final whistle. According the local pundits dotted about the touchlines, Park were fielding their strongest side of the season which was a small crumb of comfort for the hard pressed visitors.
Fraser Spavin was once again man of the match after another totally committed performance in all areas. Richard Hodgson produced another high energy contribution, while the unlikely pairing of Steve Tagg and Matt Field in the second row proved to be very effective and when he joined the forwards, James Curran was impressive.
In the backs Lee Starkey, in a new sphere of responsibility, worked tirelessly in the number nine jersey. Harry Finan was alert to any opportunity to put his side on the front foot in a game where the Vale searched for composure and a toe hold in the game. Skipper Scott Manning marshalled the resources he had at his disposal well, in what had been an uphill battle.
Next up for the seconds are Fylde at home and they can expect another testing encounter against a side that has a reputation for moving the ball around.
Thanks to Reg Robinson for his notes on the game.
Sedgley shot away to the perfect start running in three tries in the opening quarter of an hour to establish a 17-0 lead. Gradually the seconds stabilised their game, tightened up their defence with the forwards begin to exert some pressure. Unfortunately any mistake was seized upon with relish as was highlighted in the twenty fifth minute when one of Park’s centres sliced through for a converted try.
Just before half time the Vale ensured there would be no whitewash with a well constructed score. The ball was moved confidently crossfield and back again before Harry Finan touched down for the try which Alex Briggs converted.
The second half witnessed Park banking points at regular intervals but despite the ever rising score against them the seconds battled hard until the final whistle. According the local pundits dotted about the touchlines, Park were fielding their strongest side of the season which was a small crumb of comfort for the hard pressed visitors.
Fraser Spavin was once again man of the match after another totally committed performance in all areas. Richard Hodgson produced another high energy contribution, while the unlikely pairing of Steve Tagg and Matt Field in the second row proved to be very effective and when he joined the forwards, James Curran was impressive.
In the backs Lee Starkey, in a new sphere of responsibility, worked tirelessly in the number nine jersey. Harry Finan was alert to any opportunity to put his side on the front foot in a game where the Vale searched for composure and a toe hold in the game. Skipper Scott Manning marshalled the resources he had at his disposal well, in what had been an uphill battle.
Next up for the seconds are Fylde at home and they can expect another testing encounter against a side that has a reputation for moving the ball around.
Thanks to Reg Robinson for his notes on the game.
Further reading
Team Sponsors
