Wath Weather the Storm

The local derby at Shaw Lane began with a period of Wath possession until Barnsley were awarded a penalty at a ruck. A kick into the corner led to a line out and quick ball allowed the home team centre to break through some disappointing defence to touch down near the posts. A simple conversion gave Barnsley a 7 – 0 lead. Pressure from the set pieces resulted in two more penalties in quick succession, both within kicking range, and led to further points. The home team faithful were celebrating a 13 point advantage with just a quarter of the game gone. A missed penalty attempt by the young Barnsley stand off appeared to be a turning point as they were unable to turn further pressure into points.

Wath gradually gained some self confidence and increased their intensity, playing their way back into the game, with influential scrum half, Joe Bartlett, taking control. Their efforts were rewarded with greater territorial possession and a well struck penalty by Jack Whitlam ensured Wath were on the scoreboard at half time, closing the gap to 13 –3.

The Wath coach, Simon Lines, used several interchanges to start the second half, the most decisive was the introduction of Anthony Barratt. However, a period of stalemate ensued as the sun disappeared to be replaced by dark, threatening clouds. Eventually the game came back to life. Barnsley created several opportunities which were denied by last ditch tackling by full back, Tom Quinn, and desperate scrambling defence by his teammates. With Wath unable to relieve the stranglehold, pressure finally told. Barnsley crossed the line to take the score out to 18 – 3, as the conversion drifted wide.

As the heavens opened and the crowd rushed for cover, Wath began to exert some pressure of their own as Barratt’s kicking continually penned the home team in their own 22. Continued drives towards the line failed to breach the defence until a spectacular dive by Joe Bartlett was enough to break Barnsley’s determined effort . The try, way out on the right hand touchline, was converted by the mighty boot of Barratt. Wath were now in the game as the score closed to 18 – 10. The Barnsley fans became even more nervous as a penalty in front of the posts was landed by Barratt to make the score 18- 13.

Moving into injury time, Wath were finishing strongly and looked the most likely to score. An injury to Wath leader, Adam West, didn’t slow their momentum as the game was played exclusively in the Barnsley half. With the last play of the match the ball eventually reached the winger, Sam Holt. Beating the last defender he raced down the touchline to score in the corner. Barratt’s effort went close but the game ended in an honourable draw. Barnsley had dominated large periods of the game without taking full advantage but Wath deserved their share of the points for their determined fight back.

The game was attended by the family of Bryn Lawrence, a regular 1st team player at Wath in the 70’s, who passed away in the week. With the kind co-operation of the Barnsley club, a minute’s applause to celebrate Bryn’s life was held before the game.

Next Saturday Wath play their first home game of the season as they host Roundhegians from Leeds.

Steve Corns