Sat 8 Oct 2022, 15:00
Saturday 8th October 2022
Staffordshire Rugby Union Senior Cup
Walsall RFC 32
With a break in the league fixtures Leek 1st XV travelled to Walsall to play in the Staffordshire Rugby Union Senior Cup. This fixture against Walsall was always going to be an exciting match following last season's epic contests in both the league and cup that say Leek edge out the hosts to be become League Champions and win a dramatic Cup final.
Joel Booth opted to bring in talented youngsters Jack Bray and Kin Critchlow for their first team debuts following impressive performances in the 2nd team.
Walsall got off to a blistering start and by the end of the first half held an impressive 26-5 advantage thanks to four tries and three conversions. Leek managed a solitary try scored by captain Ed Cheadle but failed to capitalize on good opportunities. The last act of the half saw Ben Barlow receive a yellow card for a late tackle.
Head coach Booth inspired his troops at the break and with all three substitutes entering the fray the second period swung in the visitors favor as powerful runs from the forwards, particularly Hardern & Lloyd saw the blue boys dominate the gain line. Walsall added two penalty kicks to their tally. Leek responded with tries from Brereton, Hardern, Newton-Taylor & Hunt with Midwinter adding 3 conversions. This spirited performance fell just short as Walsall claimed victory by a single point 32-31. The hosts now advance to the semi-finals where they face Burton.
Leek can take inspiration from a valiant second half display but will need to address the under par first period, as they resume the league campaign with an away trip to Newark RFC this coming Saturday.
The 2nd XV play at Home, EsterChem park this Saturday against Didsbury TOC H. The 3rd team are also at home playing Rugeley. All kick off at 3pm.
Leek Team sheet:
Joe Newton-Taylor, Eddie Cheadle (Capt), Bobby Cheadle, Joel Hine, Ben Barlow, Oliver Powell, George Hunt, Reece Milner, Dan Needham, Will Midwinter, Kin Critchlow, Josh Nadin, Jack Bray, Jack Fryer, Sam Brereton. Subs Will Hill, Sam Lloyd, Luke Hardern.
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