 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
 |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
© Copyright |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
1st XV Match Data 2006-7 Bell kicked another penalty before Lymm scored a try against the run of play to give themselves a 26-16 buffer. Northwich scrum half Gaz Davies scored a well taken try which Bell converted and at 26-23 Lymm were on the ropes. With five minutes to play Steve Campbell was sin binned and Lymm seized their advantage with a converted try before ex Northwich player and now top referee Simon MacKeen blew for no side. Coach Mike Penny was pleased with his teams opening performance and will select from a fully fit squad for the opening league match versus Hoylake at Moss Farm this Saturday KO 3pm. 9th September 1stXV vs Hoylake (Home) Won 22-0 The second half never really got going and was punctuated with a series of disruptions. Firstly new signing Rick Smith and the Hoylake captain Rob Kerton were sent off as the culprits of a fairly mild punch up between the two sets of forwards. Campbell then injured his calf and was replaced by Chris Heywood and ten minutes later number eight Graham Robinson had to be replaced by Daniel Davy. It was not until the closing stages that Simpson cleverly picked up the ball in the loose and dummied his way between the sticks. Bell converted to end a lacklustre second half. On the positive side Northwich never looked in any danger and the return of Dave Massey at hooker augers well for the future. Coach Penny will work on ball retention and encourage greater communication before next weeks real test when Northwich visit promotion contenders Leigh, KO 3pm. Back to Team page From the outset Northwich competed well in a ferocious forwards battle but after 20 minutes they were 6-0 down to two Paul Wilcock penalties. Gary Bell responded with his 2nd penalty attempt to put the visitors back into the game and after 40 minutes Northwich scrum half Sam Naylor kicked intelligently ahead to allow skipper Jonathan Simpson to score near to the posts. Bell, who had an off day with the boot, failed with the conversion and on the stroke of half time a mix up between Bell and Steve Campbell resulted in Wilcock kicking his third penalty and giving his team an unwarranted 9-8 half time advantage. Northwich turned in an awesome second half performance and dominated the forward play. The Northwich pack gradually ground down their opposition and three excellent tries came from Chris Heywood, Dave Massey and from man of the match Sam Naylor. Bell converted a penalty and Naylor's try to secure an emphatic and what might be, even at this early stage of proceedings, a crucial victory. Back to Team page Northwich maintained total control of forward and back play and two fine hat tricks by wing forward Rick Smith and centre Steve Campbell entertained a bumper crowd which included Francis Barron, Chief Executive of the English RFU and the great and good of the Cheshire rugby hierarchy. Two first half tries from Campbell were supplemented with tries by Gary Bell and Gaz Davies. Bell converted Cambells first try and kicked an early penalty to put the game out of sight by the break at 25-0. A second half try from Andrew Chubb and Campbell's third try were punctuated by a superb Rick Smith hat trick. Bell kicked three conversions to give the home team a 56-0 advantage at full time before the never say die Manxmen scored a consolation try in the second minute of injury time. The conversion of the James Clarke try failed and the Edinburgh exchange referee Ed Fitzgerald blew for full time. Coach Mike Penny and his assistant Danny Townsend were well pleased with the squads performance and both know full well that they need to work hard to avoid complacency affecting this young teams attitude.
At the break coaches Penny and Townsend rallied the squad and brought on Adam Bown at fullback to replace the injured Chaz Wood. They also decided to kick start the forwards by bringing on David Harvey for Dave Farley and returned Chris Heywood to his normal second row position. The strategy worked and the Northwich forwards gradually ground down their opposing pack. Northwich were rewarded with a penalty try when the Wirral front row stood up and prevented Number 8 Graham Robinson from scoring a push over try. Bell converted and following further Northwich pressure kicked two penalties, the second a 'pearler' from just within the Wirral half. At 16-3 with ten minutes to play Northwich relaxed their grip and from deep within their own half winger Ali Baker picked up a loose lineout ball and showed a clean pair of heels to outpace the Northwich defence to score between the sticks. Harvey converted to give his team an outside chance of stealing a late victory. Gez Gough came on for Northwich at prop to replace the injured Dave Massey. He steadied the ship and Northwich kept their cool to secure a deserved victory. On Saturday 7th October Northwich travel to the Wirral to take on Oldershaw and should, according to the form book, take another two points to keep them at the top of the table. Cartman, Massey (Gough 70 mins), Brotherton, Farley (Harvey 45mins), Simpson (c), Heywood, Smith, Robinson, Davies, Bell, Chubb, Naylor, Campbell, Calbraith, Wood (Bown 40 mins). Northwich started the second half in a more determined mood and a fine three-quarter handling movement resulted in the supporting Rick Smith scoring between the sticks. Bell converted to give Northwich a 8-15 lead and a few minutes later he kicked a further penalty when Oldershaw pulled down a rolling maul. Northwich were now in total control and another backs move gave fullback Adam Bown the space to score near the posts. Bell converted to put the result beyond doubt at 8-25. With five minutes to go Northwich relaxed their grip and allowed a soft unconverted consolation try. Graham Robinson and Rick Smith were the pick of the forwards and stand off Gary Bell was his usual controlled self. Team. Cartman, Brotherton, Gough (Davies 55mins), Phillips (Farley 50 mins), Simpson (C), Heywood, Smith, Robinson, Davies, Bell, Chubb, Naylor, Campbell, Galbraith (Jones 60), Bown. Northwich have once again produced a highly talented squad and the fancied Sale visitors were no match for a ‘charged up’ home team. Despite going behind after three minutes when Adam Richardson pounced upon a charged down Gary Bell kick which Andrew Simpson converted the Northwich pack took a strangle hold upon the game which they never released. The Northwich forwards and in particular Graham Robinson and John Brotherton were in awesome form and both Robinson and Brotherton scored a brace apiece of pushover tries. The home team scored two other tries, another pushover awarded to Dave Massey and the only three-quarter try from the ‘on form’ Steve Campbell. Gary Bell was outstanding at fly half and converted five of the six tries and added a penalty in the last minute of play to round off a virtual flawless performance. Four converted tries gave the home team an unassailable 28-7 half time advantage. Following the break the try by Dave Massey increased the lead to 33-7 and was the only missed by Bell. Sale rallied briefly and scored a pushover try of their own courtesy of Ryan Parkinson which Simpson converted but from then on it was business as usual and Northwich completed one of the best displays of controlled rugby for many a year. South African winger David Khanyile made an impressive second half debut for the injured Steve Galbraith and will certainly add a new dimension to Northwich’s attacking play. Kiwi Jamie Miritana also made a welcome second half appearance following a three week break in NZ. Coach Mike Penny also introduced his third substitute Gez Gough for a straight swap with the cramped up Jan Cartman. This was six wins out of six and if the current form continues the promotion dream will start to become a real prospect. Northwich visit Widnes next week and will need to keep their shape and most importantly keep complacency at bay. Team:- Cartman (Gough 70 mins), Massey, Brotherton, Farley, Simpson (C), Heywood, Smith, Robinson, Davies, Bell, Chubb, Naylor, Campbell (Miritana 60mins), Calbraith (Khanyile 50mins), Bown. The ever improving Northwich pack dominated from the start but a combination tactical vision and silly penalties kept Widnes in the chase. A stern half time talk from Coach Mike Penny revitalised Northwich and with the sun and wind at their backs 'the men in black' ran riot. The injury hit Lancastrians caved in and seven tries and six conversions later were pleased to hear the final whistle and drag themselves off the Heath Road pitch. The Northwich forwards and backs went through the gears as the tries flowed from Chris James (2), Gaz Davies (2), Andy Chubb, Jamie Miritana and a 'first' try from South African winger David Khanyile. Gary Bell was again in superb form and masterfully converted six of the second half tries. Penny intelligently used all three of his substitutes and the eighteen man squad can be justly proud of their seventh straight victory. Bown, Chubb, Campbell, Naylor, Khanyile, Bell, Davies, Gough (Davey 55mins), James, Brotherton, Heywood, Simpson (C), Miritana (Farley 58 mins), Smith, Robinson (Heath 54 mins). . Northwich seemed to lack inspiration and motivation and perhaps they were simply jaded from last weeks barnstorming win against Widnes. The ex Winnington duo of Rick Smith and Gary Bell scored all the points for their new club. Smith scored a push over try in each half and Gary Bell kicked a conversion and three penalties to maintain his number one position in the leagues points scoring table. Northwich were always on top and Oldershaw never looked like scoring but a more positive team approach and clinical finishing from the home team would have produced a higher scoring, entreating game. Assistant Coach Danny Townsend was in a reflective but optimistic mood in the post match debrief. “This was a game we can put behind us, the lads know they played badly and I am convinced that they will respond positively. The squad is injury free and I will be working them hard this week. Anselmians come to us next Saturday and I will be demanding a big score.” Davey, Massey (Gough 45mins), Brotherton (Cartman 78mins), Heywood, Simpson (C), Miritana, Smith, Robinson (Farley 55mins), Davies, Bell, Chubb, Naylor, Campbell (Calbraith 50mins), Khanyile, Bown. Poor Anselmians never really threatened the Northwich try line and remain rooted on the floor of the league. Coaches Mike Penny and Danny Townsend were pleased with the steely attitude of the Northwich squad and again used all three sub intelligently. Penny needs to keep the full squad committed and involved and may rotate a number of players for the visit to Aspull on Saturday KO 2.30pm. Cartman, Hill (Davey 40 mins), Brotherton, Heywood (Farley 60mins), Simpson (C), Miritana, Smith, Robinson, Davies, Bell, Calbraith (Chubb 65mins), Naylor, Campbell, Khanyile, Bown. Match Sponsor Sean Boyle. 11th November 1stXV vs Aspull (Away) Won 33-19 Coach Danny Townsend rallied his troops and brought on substitute Chris Heywood. His tactic initially worked and Khanyile scored his second try shortly after the break. Bell converted but the 'Blacks' again lost their shape and Aspull again bounced back and John Linaker scored between the sticks. Reeves converted and with only ten minutes on the clock a big shock was on the cards. County Cap Steve Campbell who was resting on the bench was thrown into play for the weather beaten Khanyile and his presence had an immediate affect. The Northwich back line took complete control and Gary Bell and Campbell both scored fine individual tries. Bell converted both and added some respectability to the score line. Overall, considering the conditions and the very boisterous home crowd this was a deserved if somewhat laboured victory by the league leaders. Campbell and captain Jon Simpson are absent from next weeks visit to Warrington in the third round of the EDF Cup KO 2.30pm. Cartman, Hill, Brotherton. Farley, Heath (Heywood 40mins), Smith (James 55mins), Miritana, Robinson, Davies, Bell, Chubb, Naylor, Khanyile (Campbell 68mins), Calbraith, Bown.
The second half mirrored the first apart from McDermott missing a further penalty attempt. The second Northwich try came from a classic No 8 pick up from Robinson who broke the defence and scored between the posts. Bell converted to give Northwich a comfortable victory. Bell had his usual assured game and inside centre Sam Naylor made some clever breaks. Coach Danny Townsend was fairly content with the squads performance but he knows that next weeks game is a crucial one. Team: Cartman, Hill, Brotherton, Farley, Heywood, Miritana, James (Heath 50mins), Robinson (C), Davies, Bell, Calbraith, Naylor, Khanyile, Chubb, Bown. Back to Team page Northwich territorially dominated the whole match but the on form Burnage defended doggedly and took this game right to the wire. They kicked an early penalty against the run of play through Adam Knight and despite constant pressure Northwich could not make an impact. Steve Calbraith replaced Naylor after twenty minutes of the first half and replaced David Khanyile on the wing. Khanyile assumed Naylors position in the centre and made a number of incisive runs. It was a bad day in the lineout department and perhaps Northwich should concentrate on hitting a standing target. At the break Burnage had maintained their advantage and had everything to play for. Coach Mike Penny swapped Rob Heath for the returning Jonathan Simpson and ten minutes into the second half he assumed his captains role when Graham Robinson left the field with a shoulder injury. Chris James was then brought into the fray at No 8 and his presence appeared to fire up his forwards. Their pressure was rewarded with an offside penalty which Gary Bell coolly converted. Further pressure resulted in a push over maul which John Brotherton claimed. Bell converted but at 10-3 the game was far from out of sight. Burnage responded positively and for the first time in 30 minutes fought themselves into the Northwich half. It was now Northwich who defended resolutely and with three minutes remaining they took the initiative back into the Burnage 22. Burnage were again caught offside and Bell put the result beyond doubt with his second penalty. Burnage deserve their improving reputation but in the final analysis they did not deserve to upset the Northwich bandwagon. This was a game in which Northwich stuck to the script and the whole squad can be justly satisfied. Next week they enter December with a visit to Duckinfield and the from book predicts another two points for the 'Blacks.' Team: Cartman, Hill, Brotherton, Farley, Heath (Simpson 40mins), Miritana, Heywood, Robinson (C) (James 60mins), Davies, Bell, Chubb, Naylor (Calbraith 20mins), Campbell, Khanyile, Bown. Back to Team page Penny rung the changes and Bell came on for the substituted Dave Khanyile. Again Northwich dominated but driving rain affected the quality of play. A series of injuries to Rick Smith, Sam Naylor and John Brotherton forced Penny to use all his subs and this injected new life into a flagging Sale. With ten minutes to go they scored their second try, again in the corner and fortunately for Northwich they fluffed the conversion. It was all Sale for the remaining minutes but the Northwich defence held firm and allowed them to retain their unbeaten record and progress to the next round. Cartman, Hill (Pasiya 50 mins), Brotherton (James 60 mins) Farley, Simpson (C), Miritana, Smith (Heywood 50 mins), Robinson, Davies, Campbell, Calbraith, Naylor (Brunlees 58 mins), Khanyile (Bell 40 mins), Chubb, Bown. Back to Team page The maturing Northwich team had a different take on Saturdays activities and were determined to honour Chairman's Day by completing the first half of the season undefeated in cup and league. They did this in tremendous style and Chairman Sam Naylor was the first onto the pitch to congratulate the squad as the whistle for no side blew. He reminded them that this had never been achieved since the introduction of leagues more than a decade and a half ago and that for any sporting team to be undefeated at the halfway mark of a season is magnificent. Naylor was speaking on behalf of the whole club as he told them how proud he was at what they have so far achieved. The game was effectively over by half time. Northwich dominated from the outset and constant forward pressure was rewarded by Aldwinians conceding three penalties and the ever dependable Gary Bell showed no mercy and was on target with each attempt. On the one occasion when Aldwinians did apply a period of pressure it was clear that the hosts defensive line was as solid as the Rock of Gilbralta. Towards the end of the half further Northwich onslaughts brought a fine try from David Khanyile which Bell converted from wide out. On balance the second half belonged to Aldwinians but time and time again they could not break down the Northwich defence. The Northwich pack were magnificent to a man and every member of the Northwich back line also recorded a high tackling rate. Coach Danny Townsend was forced into using all four of his substitutes and they too made a positive contribution. With five minutes to go Vuyol Pasiya the South African hooker who has recently returned to Northwich for his second season and who had replaced Jed Hill ten minutes earlier was sin binned for handling in the ruck. With two minutes of play remaining Aldwinians drove from a five metre lineout and were justly rewarded in a push over try claimed by Paul Thorpe. The conversion failed and at the next break down referee John Ibbottson blew for no side. Back to Team page The second half belonged to the hosts and they deserved the try from fullback Terry Williams and the two penalties from Chris Wells. Anselmians never looked like winning and some semblance of order was restored when with ten minutes remaining Jamie Miritana scored a well taken try which Bell, as usual, converted. On Saturday 13th Northwich entertain Widnes, KO 2.15pm, and during the week Mike Penny will be working his squad hard to blow away the festive cobwebs. Northwich: Cartman, Hill (Pasiya 55 mins), Brotherton, Heywood, Simpson (C), Miritana, Smith, Robinson (Farley 58 mins), Davies, Bell, Chubb (Driscoll 65mins), Naylor, Campbell, Khanyile, Bown. Back to Team page Number 8 Graham Robinson opened the scoring for Northwich and in an inspired performance led from the front throughout and was the pick of the Northwich team. Other first half tries were scored by Jamie Miritana and Adam Bown. Bown’s try was a 'pearler' catching the ball just inside his own half and slicing his way 55 metres to the Widnes try line. Gary Bell failed to improve Robinson’s try but converted the other two to make it 19-7 at the break. The first 30 minutes of the second half were completely dominated by the 'Blacks'. Steve Campbell opened the six try blitz and then hooker Chris James who had come on for Jed Hill was on the end of a pushover try. Miritana scored his second and three more well deserved tries came from substitute Rick Smith, Dave Khanyile and prop John Brotherton. Brotherton’s try finished a superb break from Sam Naylor who had come off the bench after only five minutes of play in the first half. He replaced Leon Driscoll who was knocked out cold and taken to Leighton as a precaution. Naylor was playing his last game for Northwich this season as he now flies off to develop his rugby in Australia. He returns in July and he is depending on his team mates to ensure that the next time he dons a Northwich shirt it will be against higher league opposition. Gary Bell had his usual solid game and converted four of the second half tries. Northwich: Cartman, Hill (James 40 mins), Brotherton, Farley, Simpson (C) (Smith 60mins), Heywood, Miritana, Robinson, Davies, Bell, Chubb, Driscoll (Naylor 5mins), Campbell, Khanyile, Bown. Back to Team page This was Northwich at their very best as they dumped the much fancied Burnage out of the EDF Cup to progress to the last sixteen of this national competition. The 'Blacks' are now one of four Northern teams to be drawn against four Midland teams for the next round of this prestigious competition. This was a magnificent cup performance which could have gone either way but in the end the sheer grit of the Northwich defence took them deservedly through. For most of the game these two evenly matched teams slugged it out on a windswept quagmire but in a nail biting last quarter Northwich kept their heads and a seven point margin to retain their unbeaten record. After five minutes it looked ominous when talisman Gary Bell received a knock to his kicking leg depriving him of his usual kicking duties which were handed over to Steve Campbell. Fifteen minutes into the game Campbell was unable to convert his superbly taken solo try. Skipper Jonathan Simpson had chosen to play against the elements believing his team mates could hold their own and profit from the second half advantage. His decision paid off because in the end the Burnage try from James Knight and the penalty from brother Adam which gave them a half time 8-5 lead was not enough to keep a determined Northwich outfit at bay. Ex Burnage hooker Jed Hill was in his element in the mud and wind and used his 42yrs of experience to claim a push over try early in the second half. This was followed fifteen minutes later by a clever Rick Smith try in the right hand corner which Campbell had no chance of converting. Burnage were desperate to win and for the last twenty minutes they mounted raid after raid into the 'Blacks' twenty two. Chris James came on for Hill and Steve Taylor replaced Bell to assist their never say die team mates in a magnificent defensive action. Every Northwich player dug deep and banged in tackle after tackle to secure a memorable victory. The result will give Northwich confidence when they resume league duty at Heywood Road, the home of title chasers Sale next Saturday KO 2.15pm. Northwich: Cartman, Hill (James 55mins), Brotherton, Farley, Simpson (C), Miritana, Heywood, Robinson, Davies, Bell (Taylor 65 mins), Chubb, Smith, Campbell, Khanyile, Bown. Back to Team page The scoreline suggests his team came close but Jack was the first one to congratulate Northwich for their gritty performance in a highly charged encounter which they managed to control from start to finish. Jack has put together a promising and improving team but their ambition is now to join Northwich in North 2 the season after next. But first Northwich must play out the rest of the season with the attitude that every game is their cup final. They are beginning to look like the finished article but with the league and two cup competitions to contend with coaches Mike Penny and Danny Townsend will have their work cut out to sustain the required momentum. It can be done and there are signs that this relatively young Northwich squad possesses the drive and determination to make this the most memorable season in the clubs history. Sale had put on a pre match dinner for their many ex internationals including Steve Smith, Richard Tricky and Fran Cotton who was celebrating his 60th birthday. Their presence in the impressive Heywood Road ground inspired the home side but not enough to derail their visitors from the achievable title and two cup objective. It is now time for the Northwich press and sporting public to really get behind this team and support them all the way. As usual it was the Northwich pack, working doggedly, that ground out this deserved victory. The work horses Dave Farley, Jed Hill and Chris Heywood operated tirelessly in supporting Robinson and Miritana who again had outstanding performances. And in the backs the often unmentioned Andrew Chubb and Adam Bown contributed in a whole team effort that led to Alan Jack shaking his head in despair. It was 25 minutes before Gary Bell broke the deadlock with a fine penalty and ten minutes later a superb passage of play starring David Khanyile, Jed Hill and Rick Smith resulted in Adam Bown diving over in the left hand corner. Bell converted magnificently and at the half time whistle Sale had a mountain to climb. Two minutes into the second period Northwich were caught off guard and Matt Simpson punished a holding on decision with a well taken penalty. The visitors responded positively and when Sale were found guilty of the same offence Bell stepped up to restore the differential. The rest of the encounter was nip and tuck and par for the course the Northwich defence held firm until the very last piece of play when Andrew Dann was awarded a try which many considered had not crossed the try line. Simpson failed with the conversion and the referee blew for no side. Northwich: Cartman, Hill (James 65mins), Brotherton, Farley, Simpson (C), Miritana, Heywood, Robinson (sin bin 75 mins), Davies, Bell, Chubb, Smith, Campbell, Khanyile, Bown, subs not used, Taylor and Heath. Back to Team page During the half time break coaches Mike Penny and Danny Townsend demanded more and two minutes into the second half the death knell sounded for Forest when centre Rick Smith barged his way over the try line. Bell converted and at 12-0 there was no way back for the visitors. Veteran prop Jan Cartman had a storming game and set up tries for Steve Campbell and Khanyile and it was Khanyile who secured his hat trick with seven minutes of the match remaining with his characteristic exaggerated dive between the sticks. Bell converted both Khanyile tries to round off another good day at the office for this enthusiastic, ever improving Northwich team. Northwich used all their substitutes and it was therefore the first outing for Mike Gallimore who has been absent since the start of the season through a troublesome hernia. He came through unscathed and will be in the squad for the crucial visit to title chasers Wirral this Saturday, KO 2.15pm. If Northwich win this one only a calamity will prevent their promotion to the next level. Northwich: Cartman, Hill (James 68 mins), Brotherton, Farley (Pasiya 72 mins), Simpson (C), Miritana, Heywood, Robinson, Davies (Gallimore 55 mins), Bell, Chubb (Taylor 50 mins), Cambell, Smith, Khanyile, Bown. 17th February 1stXV vs Wirral (Away) Won 15-12 The league is now Northwich's to lose and they must keep their nerve when they fly to the IOM to take on Vagabonds this Saturday as it is never easy to win on the Island. On paper the two most difficult remaining fixtures are Leigh at home and Burnage away, if they win all their other fixtures Northwich could afford to loose these and still win the league. Having said that, loosing is not in Northwich's vocabulary and their overall objective remains to complete the season undefeated with the league title, the Cheshire Vase and the EDF Intermediate Vase. Northwich club secretary Trevor Rawling received confirmation this week that the EDF final would take place at Twickenham and this will give the squad added incentive when they travel to Stratford upon Avon on March 3rd in the quarter final of the EDF. Trevor is busily organising what is increasingly becoming a fixture congestion nightmare and is in negotiation with Wilmslow as to which night the semi final of the Cheshire Vase can be played under lights at Pownall Park. Saturdays encounter against Wirral started disastrously when in the second minute of play a loose pass from scrum half Gaz Davies was intercepted by Wirral fullback Craig Harvey who scored between the posts to give his brother Danny an easy conversion to secure an early 7-0 advantage. It took Northwich the remainder of the first half to claw back the lead and this was achieved two minutes before the break when the sure footed Bell slotted over his third penalty of the half. It was solid forward play, particularly from Jed Hill, John Brotherton and Jan Cartman which resulted in the Wirralians giving away the penalties with which Bell punished the home team. It was much of the same after the break and two further penalties were converted by Bell before Wirral changed their kicking tactics and started to run the ball at their visitors. Northwich struggled for a period and were unable to carry the ball as they had done in the first half. With ten minutes to go it was 'game on' when Wirral winger Stuart Hughes crossed in the right hand corner and Danny Harvey failed with the conversion. Northwich kept their nerve, kept possession and kept the winning margin. Coach Mike Penny only used Vuyol Pasiya as a substitute for hooker Jed Hill on the hour mark and demonstrated the strength of his squad by leaving both Dave Massey and Mike Gallimore on the bench. Jamie Miritana had his usual solid performance and Steve Campbell was the pick of the backs. Northwich: Cartman, Hill (Pasiya 60 mins), Brotherton, Farley, Simpson (C), Miritana, Heywood, Robinson, Davies, Bell, Chubb, Campbell, Smith, Khanyile, Bown. Subs not used, Gallimore and Massey. Back to Team page Vagabonds responded well and their tenacity was rewarded on the half hour with their only score of the afternoon from the boot of a Rob Pease penalty. The pitch cut up badly and it was really heavy going for both teams and for the remainder of the first half the two sets of forwards slugged it out in the Douglas mud. In the second half the class and the superior fitness level of the visitors shone through the dank Manx weather. Bell converted a long range penalty and then improved a Steve Campbell try which was made from a break by the outstanding Jamie Miritana. Northwich continued to dominate and Bell capped a perfect afternoon by scoring a try in the left hand corner and converting it from the touch line. Coaches Penny and Townsend used all the subs effectively and have a full squad available for this weekends crucial quarter final EDF cup visit to Stratford. Northwich are just two games away from Twickenham and 1st XV manager Rob Heath, who used to play for Stratford is confident that Northwich can win the tie. "My sister still lives in Stratford and she has sent me a video of their last round victory over Syston. I have studied their style and I am confident that we have the strength, particularly up front, to make the semi final draw." There are a limited number of seats available on a bus leaving Moss Farm at 9am. Contact Bryan Johnson on 079182 for further details. Northwich: Cartman, Hill (Pasiya 65 mins), Brotherton, Heath (Farley 25 mins), Simpson (C), Heywood, Miritana, Robinson, Davies, Bell, Chubb, Campbell, Smith (James 60mins) Khanyile, Bown. Back to Team page An indication of what was to come came after 35 minutes when the Stratford pack mauled and trundled their way over the Northwich try line. Second row forward and Frenchman Flo Vialan claimed the try and Brain converted to bring the home team right back into the game. Stratford regained possession from the restart and kicked ahead to Northwich full back Adam Bown who proceeded to pin back his ears and carve his way through the congestion, pass to Khanyile who drew the last line of defence to set up the supporting Bown for a contender for the try of the season. Bell mesmerised the crowd by converting from the touchline to create an 11 point gap. This should have been the situation at half time but in the second minute of injury time Steve Campbell tried to break from deep within his half and was caught and penalised for holding on. This allowed Brain to make it 10-18 at the break with everything to play for. A heavy shower changed the second half playing conditions and despite Bell improving the differential to 10-21 with his third penalty kick the nature of the game developed into a forwards battle in which Stratford had the upper hand. Coaches Penny and Townsend had brought on big gun Dave Farley in the first half and now tried to stem the flow by introducing forwards Chris James and Vuyol Pasiya into the fray. The forward situation was exacerbated mid way into the second period when through sheer desperation Northwich pulled down an advancing Stratford maul. The wired up RFU officials deliberated and key man Graham Robinson was despatched to the bin. The effect was devastating and in the ten minute period, cheered to the rafters by the home crowd, the Stratford pack ripped Northwich apart and created tries for Max O'Connor and Captain Richard Pepperell. Fortunately for Northwich Brain lost his confidence and missed both conversions but at 20-21 with minutes to go it looked ominous when Stratford caught Northwich offside. Brain could not face the prospect of attempting a kick at goal and opted to kick for a five metre line out. The intention was clear, win the line out and drive over to score a try and win the match. Cometh the moment and cometh the man, props Chris James and John Brotherton threw back row forward Chris Heywood into the air and he stretched every sinew to win the ball. This inspired the Northwich pack who drove downfield and encamped themselves on the Stratford try line line. They stayed their until they were rewarded a penalty for offside. Bell checked with the referee before kicking the ball into touch to end this tremendous game of rugby. Northwich: Cartman (James 60mins), Hill (Pasiya 58 mins), Brotherton, Heath (Farley 35 mins), Simpson (C), Miritana, Heywood, Robinson, Davies, Bell, Chubb, Campbell, Smith, Khanyile, Bown. Sub not used Taylor. Back to Team page Leigh had the best of the first quarter and forced Northwich to give away a succession of penalties. For the first time this season Northwich looked panicky and after 10 minutes of play two careless back passes allowed Leigh winger Tony Bentham to pounce on a loose ball and score an opportunistic try which Stuart Fisher converted. Northwich responded well and gradually forced their way back into the game. They particularly dominated the driving mauls and just before half time such a maul resulted in a Northwich scrum 10 metres from the Leigh line. Northwich drove forward and Graham Robinson cleverly flicked a blind side pass for Gaz Davies to score near the posts. Gary Bell converted to make it all square at the break. In the second half Chris James and Peter Pattenden were brought off the bench to join Vuyol Pasiya who had replaced hooker Jed Hill on the half hour mark. Northwich were in control at this stage but each time they threatened they invariably gave away a penalty allowing Leigh to stay in contention. The Northwich pressure did produce two Gary Bell penalties but 13-7 was not enough to knock the stuffing out of Leigh and two Fisher penalties for holding on and playing the ball on the floor produced a frantic last five minutes during which the jaded looking home team did well to hold out for a draw. Coach Mike Penny was disappointed with his squads penalty count and reminded them that he will not tolerate back chatting to the referee. He knows that the championship is in sight and will not work his players too hard before next weeks visit to Hoylake KO 2.30pm. Northwich: Cartman (James 55 min), Hill (Pasiya 32 min), Brotherton, Farley, Simpson (C), Heywood, Miritana, Robinson (Pattenden 60 min), Davies, Bell, Chubb, Smith, Campbell, Khanyile, Bown Back to Team page The travelling Northwich fans could not help concluding that their team had their minds on this Saturdays game and although the 'blacks' scored two tries in each half they delivered a somewhat disjointed performance against a resolute Hoylake outfit. Bell converted an early penalty but the visitors were stunned when three minutes later Hoylake hooker Mark Wylie crashed over for a deserved try. Steve Young converted to give the home team a 7-3 advantage. Hoylake fought with passion to keep the lead but an excellent individual Rick Smith try converted by Bell and a Dave Khanyile try on the stroke of half time gave Northwich a 7-15 interval lead. Northwich dominated the second half proceedings and Gary Bell converted a second Khanyile try and a cheeky well taken solo try from scrum half Gaz Davies. Hoylake never gave up and their persistence was rewarded with a late Dan Miller score. Coach Danny Townsend was forced to use all of his bench with the most worrying injury to fullback Adam Bown. Physio Mel Houghton will be working hard to ensure that Adam is available to join an otherwise injury free squad. Northwich:- James, Hill (Pasiya 50mins), Brotherton, Heywood, Simpson (C), Pattenden, Miritana, Robinson, Davies, Bell, Chubb, Campbell, Smith, Khanyile, Bown (Farley 20 mins, Heath 70 mins). Back to Team page Stroud, who paid a visit and lost in a HQ final in 1998 were worthy opponents for the unbeaten Northwich outfit but in the final analysis the 'blacks' deserved to go through and represent the town of Northwich and the Vale Royal Borough on Sunday 15th April. The biggest game (to date) was played in superb conditions which ultimately served as an advantage to the home team as they allowed Northwich to drag and eventually tire out the massive Stroud forward unit. Coaches Penny and Townsend had done their homework and their game plan worked to perfection. They knew that the Stroud pack would dominate up front but they also knew that if they could contain them for long enough and run them wide for long enough then they would eventually run out of steam. This was exactly what happened and was demonstrated when with only five minutes of the match remaining and the Stroud pack gearing up to score their third push over try the more youthful and fitter Northwich pack dug deep and drove them away from the try line and into the jaws of defeat. This was a tremendous cup tie with the scoreline advantage continually alternating. It was a game that could have gone either way and both teams were a credit to themselves and their local communities. Things started badly for Northwich when their pocket battleship wing forward Peter Pattenden lasted all of four minutes before being carried off with an ankle injury and replaced by Dean Thompson. Matters soon perked up and took a turn for the better when Northwich rushed into the top right hand corner and winger Dave Khanyile picked up a loose ball and somehow forced his way over to score on the six minute mark. Gary Bell, who was again in magnificent form, converted from the touchline and Stroud looked stunned. The lead lasted five minutes and as predicted the equalising try came came from a series of driving rucks and mauls to which Northwich, despite all their efforts, could not repulse. Rob Davey claimed the try and Julian harry converted it to level the score. Northwich applied pressure and were rewarded a penalty for a late tackle which Bell converted to retain the lead and then five minutes it was Bell again who in 'Wilkinesk style' slotted over a well taken drop goal. Northwich fought bravely to retain the advantage but again it was another series of rucks and mauls which led to a copy cat second try for Stroud. This try was claimed by Andy Jarrett and Julian Harry had no difficulty in converting it. Stroud were now in front and with half time approaching they probably thought that things were going to plan. With five minutes to go to the break Penny threw on the deceptively strong South African hooker Vuyol Pasiya to replace stalwart Jed Hill. This set of fresh legs did the trick and the Northwich pack drove up field and caught a Stroud player offside. Bell did the business and at half time it was 16-14 to the 'blacks'. Shortly after the break Stroud caught Northwich offside and Julian Harry scored what turned out to be their last points in this semi fianal. It gave Stroud the lead but it also inspired the Northwich team. Chris James and Dave Farley were added to the fray and as the third quater ended a Graham Robinson drive set up a ruck on the Stroud try line from which diminutive scrum half Gaz Davies used every ounce of his energy to force himself over the line. Bell converted to make it 23-17 and although both teams came close to scoring Stroud had effectively burst their boiler and it was Northwich who held on to their lead and deservedly go through to play Bradford in the final. Northwich:- Cartman, Hill (Pasiya 35min), Brotherton, Heywood, Simpson (C), (Farley 65min) Pattenden (Thompson 4min, James 65min), Miritana, Robinson, Davies, Bell, Chubb, Campbell, Smith, Khanyile, Bown.
Back to Team page Other try scorers were Leon Driscoll, Andy Chubb, Steve Campbell (3), Rick Smith, Gareth Davies, Chris James (2), David Khanyile, Jamie Brunlees and Gary Bell (3) who also weighed in with 12 conversions. The severely depleted Dukinfield side were no match for Northwich who went through the complete repertoire and served up a feast of running rugby. The first half produced six tries all of which were converted. Sadly Dukinfield had no answer to the pace and power of the Northwich team. At half time and 42-0 up Coach Mike Penny asked the players to maintain concentration and use the opportunity to run through all the things practiced on the training paddock? Northwich duly obliged and a further nine tries were scored, six of them converted. Dukinfield were unable to field a full strength side as six first team players were unavailable. Nevertheless they gave a good account of themselves and fought to the final whistle. Northwich:- Cartman (James 50 mins), Hill, Brotherton, Farley, Simpson (C), Heywood, Miratana, Robinson, Davies, Bell, Chubb (Brunlees 65 mins), Campbell, Smith, Khanyile, Driscoll (Khanyile 60 mins). The coming weeks will be extremely busy for Northwich so the coaching staff are wisely giving one or two players a break. On Wednesday 4th April the team travel to Wilmslow for the Cheshire Vase Semi-Final KO 7.30pm. With Leigh losing to Wirral only a miracle will prevent Northwich from being crowned league champions on Saturday when they entertain Aspull at Moss Farm KO 3pm. This will be the last home match of the season so Northwich will be hoping to celebrate promotion. Back to Team page Trys came from John Brotherton, Graham Robinson, Jamie Miratana, Rick Smith, Dean Thompson, Gareth Davies, Steve Campbell (2) and David Khanyile (4). Gary Bell landed 9 conversions with Campbell picking up one. The rugby was played at a breathtaking pace and Wilmslow must have wondered what had hit them. The unrelenting pressure the Black forwards applied was impossible to contend with. This platform enabled the Northwich backs to play with total freedom punctuated by the four try haul of winger Khanyile. Northwich have now been promoted to North West 2 the league from which Wilmslow has just been relegated. This emphatic victory will give the blacks confidence for next seasons campaign. This victory will mean another final for Northwich as they will compete with Wirral for the Cheshire Vase on Monday 7th May KO 3.30pm at Birkenhead Park. The Blacks will relish the prospect of meeting Wirral for a third time this season. Despite beating Wirral twice already reports on their web site have been less than flattering and will be a motivation to the Blacks. Back to Team page With the EDF Senior Vase Final at Twickenham this coming Sunday Mike Penny took the opportunity to rest one or two players and give game time to the rest of the squad. The match began with the Blacks in total control but failing to finish the excellent approach work. Aspull who are in the relegation zone proved extremely resilient and defended there line with dogged determination. However on 25 minutes Graham Robinson took matters into his own hands and drove 30 meters into the Aspull 22. The ball was quickly recycled to the left and from a ruck 10 meters from the try line Robinson carried the ball over for the first score. This was converted by Andy Chubb who had taken up the kicking duties for the absent Gary Bell. The match then became stalemate until the 39th minute when from a scrum close the Aspull line Robinson was once again on hand to pick up and drive over, this score went unconverted and the half finished at 12-0 to the Blacks. The second half was like a boxing match with both sides slugging it out in the middle of the ring and it was only two Andy Chubb penalties in the last 10 minutes that sealed the victory and the championship of Europmanx South Lancs Cheshire 1. With three league matches and two cup finals still to be played Northwich will be determined to keep the season’s unbeaten record in tact. There were some notable performances from Vuyol Pasiya, debutant John Keegan and man of the match John Brotherton. As there were no injuries Coaches Mike Penny and Danny Townsend will be delighted to be selecting from a full squad for the big game next week. Northwich:- James (Cartman 50 mins), Pasiya, Brotherton, Farley, Simpson (C), Heywood, Miratana, Robinson (Thompson 60 mins), Taylor, Bell, Chubb (Calbraith 65 mins), Keegan, Smith, Khanyile, Bown Back to Team page And the 22-year-old telecommunications worker, who shone in the sunshine as his side added the EDF Energy Senior Vase to their South Lancs and Cheshire League one title, was left pinching himself. Bown, who was a livewire throughout and finally got on the scoresheet in the 59th minute, said: “It’s overwhelming and I can hardly believe it. It was nice to get my hands on the ball early and do something positive and then to score…what a felling?” Northwich still have the Cheshire Vase to play for and Bown added: “It’s been a great season but today was definitely the best day in my rugby career. It was a great team effort and the lads made the position for me to score.” Bradford, who took the Junior Vase in the first two years of its existence in 1991 and 1992, could only reflect on what might have been. Flanker Steve Cowman said: “I am very proud of the lads. They dug in and in the last 15 minutes they threw everything at them, they didn’t quit.” Club veteran Mark Viner added: “I think when it came down to it the sides were evenly matched but they got into their patterns quicker than we did and chasing a game on a hot, airless day was hard.” Northwich led 10-3 at half-time after referee Andrew Taylorson awarded them a penalty try when scrum-half Gareth Davies was held back by Sean Thomas as he tried to touch down a kick through. It was only what the Cheshire side deserved after dominating the territory during the baking hot first half. They came close on other occasions - a promising run from Bown, and a 30-metre hack on from Steve Campbell had Bradford in trouble before No 15 Richard Langhorn won the chase back and recovered the ball. Their best chance came when another Bown break set up Dave Khanyile, who chipped over the defence and gathered to touch down but Taylorson had already blown for a forward pass. But he blew in Northwich’s favour minutes later and Bell converted for a seven-point lead, Bradford’s only first-half points coming from Paul Drake, who landed one from two penalties. Drake pulled Salem back to within four points but then came Bown’s score. Bell missed the conversion but a penalty from in front of the posts for illegal binding at the scrum extended the lead. Bradford lost a man when Jasen France was sin-binned for persistent infringement but they dug in and came back.Replacement Chris Luxton scored in the second of the 13 minutes of injury-time allowed to stretcher off Bradford prop and captain Simon Davies, converted by Drake, but it was not enough to deny Northwich their double. Northwich: A Bown; D Khanyile, S Campbell, R Smith, A Chubb; G Bell, G Davies; J Cartman, J Hill, J Brotherton, D Farley, J Simpson (capt), C Heywood, J Miratana, G Robinson. Reps: V Pasiya for Hill 55, C James for Cartman 80, R Heath for Varley 80. Not used: S Taylor, S Calbraith, J Brunlees, D Thompson Scorers: Tries: Pen try, Bown; Pens: Bell (2); Con: Bell Back to Team page Mike Penny decided to rest Jamie Miritana whose Twickenham performance prompted the Cheshire selectors to include him with Steve Campbell in this seasons county squad. Dave Khanyile flew back to South Africa last week but promised to be back for Northwich's elevation into next seasons North West Two. These circumstances meant that Rick Smith moved from centre to his preferred back row position, a recall for winger Steve Galbraith and a first XV debut for 2nd XV centre John Keegan. Proceedings started well for Northwich when after only four minutes of play full back Adam Bown collected a clever kick ahead from Gaz Davies to score in the corner. Gary Bell who had an uncharacteristic off day with the boot missed the conversion. Two minutes later Northwich gave away a penalty and from the ensuing lineout a Burnage catch and drive resulted in an unconverted try to level the score. At this stage Northwich took control and further unconverted tries came from the evergreen prop Jan Cartman and pacey winger Andrew Chubb. With half time approaching the blacks relaxed their grip and Burnage scored a flowing backs try and the easy conversion brought the home side right back into the game at 12-15. Vulyol Pasiya and Dean Thompson replaced Jed Hill and Graham Robinson and instead of giving fresh impetus Northwich began to look battle weary and mid way through the second half the Burnage stand off stroked an easy drop goal to level the score at 15 all. For the remainder of the game Northwich were on the back foot and defended resolutely as Burnage made every attempt to secure victory. With the game in injury time Northwich rallied and drove deep into the Burnage half where their backline were caught offside. Gary Bell who had been off target with his earlier attempts coolly converted to win the match and maintain his teams unbeaten record. Northwich now have two relatively comfortable league matches to secure a remarkable unbeaten league run. They visit Duckinfield this Saturday and entertain the already relegated Oldershaw on May 5th. The climax to this historic season takes place at Birkenhead Park on the 7th May when Northwich take on Wirral in the final of the Cheshire Vase. If the 'blacks' win they will secure a never to be repeated treble which will live for ever in the minds of players and supporters alike. Northwich:- Cartman, Hill (Pasiya 40 mins), Brotherton, Farley, Simpson (C), Smith, Heywood, Robinson (Thompson (45 mins), Davies, Bell, Chubb, Keegan, Campbell, Galbraith, Bown. Back to Team page Jan Cartman, Jamie Brunlees and Rob Heath were introduced to the second half proceedings which turned out to be more productive with four tries, including a hat trick from centre Rick Smith giving some semblance to what was a predictable outcome. The other try was scored by Steve Campbell and Gary Bell completed a flawless performance by converting all four tries. Dukinfield scored a deserved early in the half but in reality they were out of their depth against their promoted and undefeated guests. |