Wilmslow 12     Stoke on Trent 19

After last weeks defeat Wilmslow responded well despite missing a number of players. All first choice players, the colts were without two hookers, a second row, scrum half and centre, which resulted in a number of players playing out of position and a lack of cohesion and organisation. The good news is that most of the missing players should be available next week as will Hamish Watson who came back from school this week to put in a great performance.

Stoke arrived with a 100% record this season but despite this it was Wilmslow that scored first when Alex Taylor picked up at Number 8 and charged over. Within 5 minutes Stoke were in front when their Number 8 swivelled from the back of a maul to go over all to easily.

On the stroke of half time, Stoke delivered a fatal blow when they scored with the final play of the half. This was so dispiriting that as soon as the second half started Stoke scored again. To Wilmslow’s credit they reacted well and 10 minutes later they made the score 12-19. A great break by Jo Spence was followed by quick ball. Lawrence James then chipped for the corner and Matthew Butt won the race to score.

In the last 10 minutes it could have gone either way. In truth Stoke were the better rucking and mauling side but Wilmslow’s lack of consistency showed, so despite an admirable effort it was not quiet enough and until we are able to get a settled side this will always be a problem.

Tries:  Alex Taylor, Matthew Butt

 Con:   Lawrence James