Two of the leading sides so far in the Cumbria League clash at Lowmoor Road on Saturday – when Wigton v Upper Eden is definitely the competition’s match of the day.
Andy Brown, the Wigton coach, is guiding a young squad this season who have put together two victories – 17-3 at home to Whitehaven and 55-7 at Creighton.
“It was a good win over an experienced Whitehaven side, and then we scored nine tries against Creighton without really playing well.
“It is, however, a young squad which is why I’m delighted that David Hanabury is back for Saturday. His guile and experience will be invaluable and I’m sure he’s going to make a difference.
“This is going to be a big game between two clubs I know want to play their rugby at a higher level. On the results so far we could be the two teams challenging at the end of the season so it’s important to get the win on Saturday,” said Brown.
Although Wigton will welcome back Hanabury from his honeymoon they will have to wait a week longer before his half-back partner Fergus Ledingham is available.
“He’s had work commitments so far but after Saturday I’m told he will be available for six weeks which is good news,” said Brown.
The tries against Creighton were scored by captain Richard Moffatt (2), Stephen Harris (2), John Story (2), Joe Marrs, Josh Leeson and Billy Stafford. Moffatt added five conversions.
Upper Eden continued their fine start to the season by beating Furness 71-19 to follow up the previous 62-7 home win over Workington and a walkover win at Millom.
The best game in the Cumbria League on Saturday was Hawcoat Park’s 27-10 win at home to Millom.
Sadly Workington were unable to raise a side to go to Egremont.
Meanwhile, Friday night rugby could become a regular feature at Carlisle’s Warwick Road after this week.
The club’s second team, the Crusaders are hosting Windermere in a Cumbria 2 Shield fixture.
It was scheduled for Saturday afternoon but has been moved to this Friday night with a kick-off time of 8pm.
Carlisle official Bill Glindinning said: “Thanks to Windermere for accommodating the request and the referee society for being able to secure a referee at relatively short notice.
“We hope this helps in spreading games across the weekend to help them with appointments, and we know there’s keen interest amongst players to play on a Friday.”
Prior to Covid, the Crusaders were struggling for numbers and since the return of regular rugby have dropped down to Cumbria 2.
Windermere were also members of the Cumbria League but they, too, have switched to the Shield League competition.
