Wath 21 Leos 10

Wath Gain Control

On an afternoon when the gales brought by storm Brian dictated the style of play Wath had to adapt their game to defeat a resilient Leodiensian team. An early penalty from Jack Whitlam was pushed wide and for the next 20 minutes the game was littered with errors as both teams tried to play a passing game in the windy conditions. This style eventually worked for Leos and getting the ball to their left winger showed why: his pace was electrifying and left the Wath defence with no chance as he opened the scoring with a try. The missed conversion left the opposition with a 0-5 lead.

Wath pragmatically changed their tactics and a penalty for a high tackle was in range for Jack Whitlam to close the gap to 3-5. As the home side continued to keep the ball in the forwards, they controlled game better and forward drives, notably by Bobby Lazenby and veteran, Jason Cotton, increased the pressure on the opposition defence. Half an hour into the game Luke Stead, playing his first full match in two years, after a long term injury, completed a move as he carried several defenders over the line, to score a try. The excellent conversion from near the touchline showed how Jack Whitlam had mastered the windy conditions.The home team had a 10- 5 advantage going in to half time.

The second half began in the same vein, as Wath forwards continued to dominate possession. Luke Stead again used his size and strength to force his way over the line and touch down. Another difficult conversion was just off target but the 15 – 5 score line gave Wath a little breathing space.
Whitlam’s skill with the boot increased the lead to 18 – 5 with a penalty, but a long range try from the opposition flying winger brought the score back to 18-10 and, despite the missed conversion, it meant Wath could not ease off.

Wath reinforcements, Hill and Lines, eased the strain on the bench and ensured a greater share of the possession and territory. Pressure eventually created a kickable penalty chance for the Wath stand off, Whitlam, to show off his kicking prowess and complete the scoring. A 21 – 10 win to the home team. A solid, adaptable team performance should allow Wath to go to West Park Leeds next Saturday with confidence.

Steve Corns