In a tightly contested encounter, Blaydon Colts edged out Wigton Colts 19-14 in a match defined by ‘the visitors’ determined defensive efforts.
Wigton had started brightly, applying pressure through strong carries and structured phase play. Their early dominance was nearly rewarded with a well worked try only to be halted by a knock on while driving over the try line.
Blaydon gradually settled and responded with the only try of the half, with continued pressure close to the line, Blaydon’s back line fired out a couple of long passes releasing winger Thomas Regan to score an unconverted try.
The match opened up after half-time, with both sides exchanging possession and territory but Wigton’s inability to handle Blaydon’s kicking game proved crucial.
Fly half Luke Dunbar’s chip kick for his hard-working winger Thomas Regan again saw them make ground and set up a ruck five yards off Wigton’s try line. From there Blaydon’s back row powered over to score by the posts for 12-0.
From the kick-off Wigton again failed to deal with Blaydon’s kicking game and centre Ethan Turner scored wide of the posts to make it 19-0.
Some stern words under the posts by Wigton’s captain Alfie Deans must have made a difference because for the rest of the half Wigton were on the attack.
Flynn Manihera, pulling the strings, found hard running Deans and Daniel Benson to barge into Blaydon’s 22.
Fly half Manihera was in support to take the final pass and score by the posts, for Ellis Holliday to convert.
From the kick-off Wigton’s Manihera managed to kick the ball 60 yards for a 50/20 and momentum seemed to have swung.
From the resulting scrum Wigton’s pack worked hard to open up space and hard running back rower Alex Palmer found an inside ball to score under the posts. In the closing minutes Wigton pushed hard for the win but Blaydon’s defence held firm.
It was a fiercely competitive match that showcased commitment and skill from both teams. Blaydon’s ability to convert key opportunities ultimately proved the difference, while Wigton can take pride in a spirited and well-structured performance.
