

As has become standard in friendlies we agreed to play three 20 minute thirds, which allows the coaches to tinker and everyone to get a game.
The first third started, and it was obvious from the start that the teams looked equal in size, speed and skill. Sefton struck first with a try, but we soon levelled the score with the first of Alex Carden’s efforts, up the hill and in the far corner after some decent sustained effort by the whole team. The first third saw both teams attack well, defend decently, so we were all pleased when the whistle blew and it was 5-5.
The second third saw us swap both wings, fly half, centre and a few forwards to continue taking the game to Sefton. I must mention some outstanding runs by three of our wingers which saw Michael, canter down the wing a few times only to be denied by some excellent Sefton tackles, Josh Obeng not only make good yards but also put in some hard tackles and Aldi go on some enormous cross field run making 30 or 40 metres . Collegiate bossed this second third with Alex once again receiving the ball from some excellent team rucking and passing and scoring once again near corner. Liverpool 10 , Sefton 5
The third session started with more changes and a decidedly sharper looking Sefton attack. From our kick off Sefton gathered, passed to one of their backs who ran through us without a tacklers finger tip touching him. This left us 2 points behind and playing up the hill but not beaten. From the kickoff Sefton gathered the ball and worked their way back to our try line to leave us 9 points behind As usual our boys attitude of heads up and carry on saw the tide change. The last 10 minutes saw us ruck, maul and pass the ball up the hill. First Max powered over from a good forwards move to score his second in two weeks, then Jamie and finally Mitch capitalised on some good work by Alex Carden to pop over to secure the match.
Final score 27- 19
There were plenty of good performances on the field, but I would like to mention JP for his awesome tackling, Alex Carden for his full back skills and scoring prowess and Mathew Bennett for being strong in the rucks.. I will also mention the excellent discipline by our players, which contributed to us keeping possession.
Tries : Alex Carden x2, Max, Jamie H, Mitch
Conversion : James Finlay
Match reporter, Aitch