Keswick Rugby Club News

U-18

WIGTON 13 points – KESWICK 12.

This was a game played on a knife edge and just as close as the scoreline suggests. Keswick scored two tries to Wigton’s one and after the second of these, a remarkable 75 metre move finished by a 50 metre charge to the line by lock forward James Langstaff, Keswick skipper Harry Garner calmly slotted the conversion. This gave Keswick a 12- points -6 lead which meant that the only way Wigton could win was by scoring a converted try. They had two minutes in which to do this and given the quality of Keswick’s defensive excellence so far, such a bad outcome seemed unlikely.

The match had been a tight affair from the start with Keswick’s more regular adoption of an open style of play the principal distraction from a brutally hard battle between two committed packs. Keswick always tried to run, sometimes from unlikely start points where the ball did not become available as fast as is considered essential for a successful wide game. Whatever, despite the irregular speed of delivery the wide approach was still the best way to beat Wigton and with alignments subtlety adjusted Keswick persisted. No ball was easily won and from such prized possession Wigton’s preference was for the gain of hard yards in the centre channels or by booming field kicks. On occasions such tactics pinned Keswick back but when they didn’t it was because of Keswick’s hard tackling, their eye for a turnover and their willingness to run counter attacks from anywhere on the pitch. This created a compelling end-to-end and fast moving spectacle expertly policed by referee Malcolm Brown. Principal movers for Keswick were full back Lewis Thompson, and stand-off Harry Garner whose ingenuity always threatened to open a resolute Wigton defence. Working like crazy up front at the cutting edge of a grafting pack were Jack Howard, and in only the second match of his long awaited comeback, fellow loose forward Tom Kitching.

For a game of such ferocious intensity there weren’t many penalties which was a tribute to the disciplined attitude of the players and the empathy of a referee offering appropriate preventative advice. Scrums were sometimes nudged by Wigton but lineouts were evenly contested. So close were the sides that penalty awards became events to be celebrated; Wigton kicked a penalty after 17 minutes to claim a lead and its importance was emphasised only minutes later when Garner was only narrowly wide with Keswick’s first, more difficult attempt at goal. At half time Keswick could lay claim to a slight territorial edge, guessed at a better ability to stay the distance, but knew that neither would count for much without the imposition of a greater level of sustained pressure.

The second half continued in a similar vein but was driven by a faster pace and even greater intensity. There was evidence provided by the direction of play that this surge was initiated by Keswick but Wigton defended well and were happy to absorb pressure inside their half. Wigton’s gains in ground were usually via the boot from safe pockets behind rucks and scrums, whereas Keswick’ favoured approach continued to be ball in hand. Keswick centres James Rush and Patrick Wilmott worked in conjunction with full back Lewis Thompson to create deep field attacks, and these attacks became especially potent whenever the ball reached Grant Thompson on the wide left. From an advance led by Howard and supported by prop forwards Eddie Bell and James Addyman, Garner attempted a drop at goal which missed but created a bit of ‘in-goal’ panic amongst the Wigton rear-guard. Keswick had the gift of a 5 metre scrum and a real chance to score. Wigton took the match’s first strike against the head and the chance was lost.

Some variation was called for, and this was provided by Garner who dummied to pass but instead launched a 40-metre cross kick right to left. Wigton’s midfield were too far advanced, the ball sat up and Grant Thompson read its flight perfectly. Thompson collected the ball at full tilt and from 30 metres crossed the line to score a try. Keswick’s lead was short lived and from the re start Wigton claimed field position and regained the lead with a second penalty after Keswick were caught offside.

The stage was set for a close finish and with 10 minutes to play Wigton began an aerial bombardment clearly designed to keep Keswick at a safe distance. This would have worked against a less ambitious side than Keswick who, still pushing the pace but ever-patient, welcomed the gift of possession as an opportunity to run the ball back. Two counter attacks failed as Wigton chased effectively and allowed no escape. Then Lewis Thompson fielded a big kick and when the chase was not so scrupulous, ran 20 unopposed metres before linking with Langstaff. Langstaff’s acceleration left his immediate marker floundering but was matched stride for stride by Grant Thompson whose run in support provided a passing alternative that most forwards would have been keen to accept. Not so Langstaff who used the distraction to wobble the last defender before straightening his run and galloping in for a glorious try beneath the crossbar.

With a six point lead there was still danger, Keswick never assumed the game was won, nor was the harsh denouement anything to do with complacency. What Keswick needed to do was finish the game in the Wigton half and when they failed to achieve this it was because of yet another, this time more effective Wigton kick to deep territory. Keswick first missed a chance to clear, then, during a sequence of errors from which Wigton gained the momentum and developed an advantage, Keswick were slow to appreciate clear danger. For the first time in the match Keswick’s advance and drift was slowly sprung and a Wigton handling move ended with a try in the left corner by their left winger.

The Wigton kicker became the centre of attention and with a successful kick under pressure deserved the adulation from team mates and Wigton supporters for an extremely difficult job well done. For Keswick there was the considerable consolation of playing as well as they did and being part of a fantastic game.

U-13.

UPPER EDEN 44 points – KESWICK 5.

The Keswick team was depleted, particularly up front, and Paul Bennett, Hugh Blakemore and Michael Huit deserve a pat on the back for their sterling performance as an emergency front row. Against a very strong Upper Eden outfit Keswick needed to be at full strength and well enough stocked with ballast to maintain a meaningful challenge. With ball winning potential so seriously reduced it was difficult for Keswick to secure enough decent possession to more regularly release the pace men behind the scrum.

Playing down the slope Upper Eden applied heavy pressure and scored a try in the second minute. A second try quickly followed and once the route down the centre of the pitch had been successfully established Upper Eden became dominant. Upper Eden stuck to a very basic game plan which relied on the gain of hard-yards, accurately backed by close support and short passing. Keswick were uncomfortable with the congestion, were unable to get near the ball and, were log jammed and consigned firmly to the back foot. With rare possession Keswick half-backs Cameron Steel and George Holme were not allowed time to make play and under so heavy pressure were denied access to attackers located away from the huddle. Upper Eden’s hunger resulted in Keswick loss of possession without much gain in ground. A third Upper Eden try added to Keswick’s woes and this development further undermined fragile morale. In the circumstances, the delay which preceded a fourth home try was a creditable achievement which owed much to improved tackling, the maintenance of higher field position and runs out of defence by George, Robbie Tully, Jordan Markbride and Jake Winter. A fourth Upper Eden try arrived slightly against the run of play, just before half time, and meant that at least the scoring rate had been slowed.

Keswick needed a positive start to the second half but playing up the hill Upper Eden immediately applied the type of pressure that had been present at the start. Pinned uncomfortably close to their goal line, Keswick had to defend desperately. Keswick’s tackles particularly those of Matty Scott, Cameron, and Tom Hodgson stopped certain tries and Keswick won two penalties which provided good opportunities to clear the danger. Keswick were now in the game and from a greater share of possession gained good ground with attacks led by Jordan, George and Matty Rawlinson. Upper Eden were as efficient defensively as they had earlier been in attack and used every ball won whilst defending as an opportunity to attack again. The game became more open and was better for it.

Upper Eden scored two more tries and deserved credit for this achievement against an improving Keswick side offering a lot more than the scoreline suggests. Keswick’s greater share of possession meant that more attacks were possible and determined carrying by half backs George and Cameron, playing in the style of extra forwards, ensured that essential momentum was more regularly achieved.

Tom Hodgson registered some thumping tackles against considerably larger opponents and his efforts helped the team recover some bruised confidence. Upper Eden scored their final two tries after the breakdown of determined Keswick attacks which deserved tries but failed, in one instance on the last pass, and later when there was a critical absence of support for a determined run around the defence by Matty Rawlinson.

Keswick secured a deserved consolation try after an accurate penalty kick to touch by Jamie Wilson and a few charges towards the line by Jamie, Robbie, Cameron, George and Jonny Robinson. Keswick were awarded three penalties and from the last of these cleverly switched the direction of play to enable a charge to the line by the hard working Jake Winter. Jake’s try was the least Keswick deserved and showed that despite the defeat Keswick maintained excellent team spirit and continued their effort to the end.

Cumbrian League.

KESWICK 56 points – COCKERMOUTH 0.

Keswick began by dictating a fast pace which initially served to show how well the Cockermouth defence were prepared. Cockermouth drifted together, read well what was likely to happen next, placed their defenders in the right positions, made their tackles and, as expected, gave as good as they got at both breakdown and set piece. Keswick played well, particularly running out of defence and there were significant breaks by Andy Wallace, Aaron Thompson and in particular Ben Bentham. Keswick tried, but couldn’t score, – even through well-rehearsed routes. Harry Hancock with nowhere to go was tackled, once slipped and fell when in the process of breaking free, and placed in the in the clear by Thompson the referee recalled Matty Roper for a close forward pass. Keswick experienced problems passing off the left hand and after Bentham’s spectacular 50-metre charge some dodgy distribution meant the collapse of a chance with a four man overlap.

Keswick defended well when they had to and remained patient, a beneficial trait gained from experience when things don’t go as planned at a higher level. Keswick undoubtedly interpreted the first signs of Cockermouth tiredness as an incentive to apply greater pace to their own game. No8 Thompson, not dissuaded by earlier failures to gain ground from the base of the scrum, again broke to the right. This time his exchange of passes with Roper was more precise, allowing the Keswick skipper access to space behind the scrum. Thompson got the ball back and from close range ducked under the cover and scored Keswick’s first try. Keswick had played 20 minutes without scoring but then two tries followed in rapid succession. The first scored by Bentham was opportunist and followed a spillage by a Cockermouth lineout under pressure close to their line. The next, scored by Viv Wilmott was the product of a good move featuring an angled run in support of Roper by Brian Storey and Mike Branthwaite’s accurate final pass.

At 15-0 Keswick seemed well placed to score some more points but such assumptions were premature and underestimated Cockermouth’s ambition. Keswick were guilty of inaccuracy firstly at a lineout where they were penalised, and then inside their ‘22’where they were ad judged offside at a ruck. Cockermouth had several attempts to score, came very close to scoring from a 5 metre scrum and were only kept out by an efficient defence now obsessed by the clean sheet.

Keswick broke free and returned play to the Cockermouth end where Andy Muir supporting on the wide left was the try scorer at the end of a well-constructed move.

Keswick’s half time re shuffle made possible a further upward gear shift which sought to add punch to attacks by the use of greater depth of alignment particularly in the threequarters and a collective pledge to clean up the passing. The plan seemed to work and there is no doubt that Roper playing as a centre was a key contributor to Keswick’s improvement. Introduced at scrum half Harry Garner was similarly influential and forever going forward Keswick added attacking variation and six second half tries. The game was never easy, Cockermouth made Keswick work hard for every point, but improved returns from lineouts where claims by David Ray and Karl Smyth secured ball against the throw, and scrums where all but their experienced props were driven backwards, provided Keswick with bonus possession that was unobtainable before half time. Tries were scored by Garner, Hancock, Roper, Hancock again, Jonny Hume and Bruce Rigby and Storey and Muir 2, kicked conversions.

This was another important victory on the road to Cumbrian League achievement and when the match involving second placed Whitehaven failed to take place there was at last tangible benefit from Keswick’s ‘game in hand’. Keswick will now conclude their league season with visits to Wigton Wanderers and St Benedict’s Ravens.

Details of what will happen after the conclusion of the League season have been announced and a new competition for the Cumbria League Cup, a home and away mini league involving the top 5 clubs will commence on Saturday 18th February.

North West League.

(Division 4 N)

PRESTON GRASSHOPPERS 7 points – KESWICK 28.

Under-12.

KESWICK 35 points – CARLISLE 14.

Spectators were treated to an open, high speed, highly skilled try scoring extravaganza between two teams dedicated to attack and bursting with fresh faced enthusiasm. The players were far too busy executing switches, run rounds and disguised drop-offs to niggle and this situation existed despite ever present heavy duty tackling and constantly competitive scrums, rucks and mauls. On both sides of the divide there was evidence of sound discipline, understanding and good practice. There was also an appreciation of finer nuances for example those of appropriately adopted alignments particularly those related to varied depth and width. Some decisions made by playmakers under pressure suggested a level of maturity not always evident in players so young. The applause during and at the end of an enthralling contest was for 26 proud players but at the tunnel the most smiley guys on the complex, and rightly so, were Keswick coaches Peter Sant and Colin Jenkinson.

Carlisle were dominant and during the early exchanges hogged the ball and drove hard yards. Keswick looked as if they were at tackling practice and a tight line was essentially maintained. Tom Nelson, Tom Hind and Thomas Slack made successive tackles and some big Carlisle forwards were either decked in an instant or were dragged over with the help of a second tackler. Then, following a Carlisle attack stopped brilliantly by George Attwood’s flying tackle there was an escape by stand -off Will Westle and a mazy 25 metre run by Danny Price. Danny was eventually closed down and cornered but Scott Maxwell’s run in support was perfectly timed and he crossed the line to score Keswick’s first try.

The game was dead equal and Keswick gradually began to benefit from a 50 per cent share of possession. Keswick’s set scrum was excellent with good technique evident in the play of front rowers Robert Spedding, Adam Suddaby and Josh Newton. At lock Hilton Cornthwaite and Daniel Sant appeared to be a very unlikely pairing, but the combination worked well. Hilton became more confident and away from the scrum Daniel soon emerged as the game’s most prominent individual. Largely inspired by Tom Hind’s consistently effective distribution and Will’s creative streak, Keswick expertly used ball won; an angled run infield by George and carries by Daniel and Tom Hind took play to within a metre of the Carlisle line. Keswick were awarded a penalty and Tom Hind scored after a wriggle through heavy traffic. Play was still end to end and before half time there was a try to each side. Carlisle deserved their try after maintaining possession long enough to ensure that Keswick ran out of defenders. Keswick’s score arrived after a brilliantly executed switch move involving Danny, Scott and Tom Nelson and was scored by Tom Nelson. All first half conversions were successful, one by Danny, one by George and one by Tom Nelson.

The first action after half time saw determined thrusts by both packs cancelled by good defence. Keswick’s excellence at the ruck was led principally by Robert who was often the man whose arrival formed the ruck, but who always joined over the ball, a demanding spearhead position from where the ball is most effectively retained or secured. Dan, Adam, George, Josh and Thomas always stayed on their feet as long as possible and when they went to ground the ball was always laid back with great precision. Carlisle were always a threat, and only Keswick’s good defence kept them at bay. Keswick scored a fourth try by Tom Nelson, converted by Will, but right away Carlisle scored a second try which with a conversion made the score 28-14.

Keswick were best equipped for the big finish and Daniel and Josh led the final attacks. Carlisle cleared the danger but Will spotted the perfect alignment which formed instantly on the open side and after stepping the first tackler activated the attacking line. The passing exchange between George and Scott was perfect and Tom Nelson was given the perfect scoring opportunity. Tom took his chance expertly and when Danny kicked the conversion that was the end of the scoring and the end of the match.

Cumbrian League.

KESWICK 22 points – NETHERHALL 0.

This was another Cumbrian League win to nil but was far from Keswick’s best performance of the season. Given the circumstances no body was surprised. Minus five squad regulars on a wild and windy school field, against a typically determined Netherhall side it soon became the case that the result was the only thing that mattered. Keswick should be complimented on the high calibre of the resolve which took them to the desired four try – bonus point win but this was a victory achieved without marks for entertainment. Try as they might Keswick couldn’t raise the tone and in the quest for quality their frustrations were compounded by heat of the moment decisions which missed some obvious opportunities. This was particularly true after the interval in the seconds after being awarded penalties. Rather than boot the ball, wind assisted, into the corners where a significantly superior lineout could have been exploited, Keswick opted for short taps and handling moves which failed to negotiate the brick wall and simply led to more attrition.

Keswick are confident in their ability to play for 80 minutes so were happy to play against the wind in the first half. The wind was very strong and afforded massive advantages to teams whose tactical decision makers appreciate how and where to place balls advanced by boot. Netherhall’s kickers, usually their scrum half or inside centre but more usually their stand-off, kicked well and long but not always accurately, and Keswick full back Andy Wallace and wingers Harry Hancock and Bruce Rigby were quick to run the ball back to Netherhall, sometimes with gains in ground. Netherhall’s best kicks were made later in the half when it was discovered that shorter more retrievable stabs posed greater problems for turning defenders confused by which of them should be defending which space. With knowledge of a better chasing strategy Netherhall could have exploited the potential; as it was, a good tactic did not achieve the success it might, sometimes gave away possession, and for Keswick provided a good clue as to how to add to their plan for the second half.

Keswick’s first half try was welcomed, as are all ‘against the wind’ tries, as a deserved bonus and the product of correctly applied tactics. A long (‘22’to‘22’) ‘pick and go’ sequence, led from the front by David Ray and skipper for the day Carrick Wharmby, placed the visitors firmly on the back foot and, momentum achieved, opened the door to a well-worked left to right cross field move featuring the slick passes of midfielders Brain Storey and Mike Branthwaite. This was followed by the run, cut and feint of outside centre Viv Wilmott. From 35 metres Hancock took Wilmott’s pass at pace and turned his opponent before crossing the try line close to the sticks. Storey added the conversion points.

Keswick did most of the attacking in the early stages of the second half but handling errors and the ease with which Netherhall stopped the flow of tackle ball seriously hampered Keswick’s plans for the wide game which would have best utilised their advantages. It seemed a case of remaining patient and continuing to work hard and this theory was reinforced when a series of penalties helped establish a position inside the visitor’s ‘22’. Keswick drove determinedly and no8 Aaron Thompson took Wharmby’s well executed pass before driving over the line to score.

Keswick’s brightest star during the plays which followed was scrum half Harry Garner who stepped into the place vacated by skipper Matty Roper and played with great authority. Garner is at his best in a tight spot and as the game developed there were plenty of these. Garner combined well with half back partner Storey, and, from the scrum base with No 8 Thompson. After Thompson’s try, with 20 minutes still to play it seemed that if Keswick could move up to that gear usually saved for the final quarter the four try target would be achieved. Keswick’s efforts were frustrated by the concession of penalties which allowed Netherhall to escape from their half and by some effective passing combinations featuring Netherhall’s back row and half backs which turned Keswick and meant that some time was spent on the back foot. Keswick looked comfortable in defence and were seldom under serious threat. More, it was the denial of possession from which they could attack that hurt, and when touch finding options were spurned and insufficient reward was claimed from penalties awarded in the early stages of the fourth quarter, the four try win suddenly seemed more remote.

In the 62nd minute Keswick became the beneficiaries of a piece of refereeing interpretation which provided another talking point and particular disquiet amongst the visitor’s players and supporters. From a long kick to the corner by Garner, Hancock was awarded a try for Keswick after it appeared the ball had been made dead in-goal by the last Netherhall defender. It was a fortunate call and none of the Keswick observers would have been surprised if the referee had made the decision to award Netherhall a ‘22’ metre re start. As it was Keswick had a clearer view of their objective and the fitness and wherewithal to finish the job. The introduction of Jonny Hume at loose forward brought a muscular presence to the tackle area and some additional technique and nouse at a time when it was needed most. Garner’s brand of rugby intelligence was evident until minute-80 and from his deft chip to the left corner ‘in-goal’ area Rigby secured Keswick’s final touchdown.

‘A’ XV.

Keswick ‘A’ 36 points – Vale Of Lune 17.

No report

Under-16.

GOSFORTH 22 points – KESWICK 22.

This was a very good result for Keswick who, with an untested side missing some of its brightest stars, battled back from the jaws of defeat to produce a heroic finish. Having fought back to recover a 10 point deficit, Keswick spent the final 5 minutes of the match pinned within 5 metres of their goal line. At the end of a tough match Keswick’s smaller forwards endured a battering but didn’t miss a tackle and a draw was the very least they deserved.

Keswick decided during the warm up that they liked the 3-G artificial pitch, owned by Gosforth but shared for training purposes by nearby pros Newcastle Falcons. The pitch allowed Keswick to play even faster than they usually do which would have been fine had it not been for some absence of accuracy in execution. Keswick were flustered and ball was dropped and kicks made in haste which merely gifted possession to the opposition. Gosforth seemed temporarily afflicted by the same problems, but less so, and emerging stronger from a short period of mutual scrappiness, exploited a turnover of possession, won a scrum going forward and claimed a 5th minute try and conversion.

Amidst a welter of hard hitting commitment the quest for control continued with some success. Keswick improved their passing and rucks achieved faster and more productive outcomes thanks to the earlier arrival of Keswick’s loose forwards. James Addyman at No 8 was his usual uncompromising self and Ross Connell, enjoying greater freedom away from the second row, made some big tackles and mauled ferociously. Keswick skipper Jim Creighton orchestrated Keswick’s improvement and did so with nerves of steel. And it was a good job; Gosforth clearly had the kind of pack who enjoys the softening up process and it was essential that Keswick face up and not allow this to happen. Gosforth kicked a 10th minute penalty to lead 10-0.

Away from the packs honours were similarly even. Keswick’s best chance lay in the effective use of width and the deployment as strikers, as often as possible, of speedy wingmen Ryan Weir and Mark Foster. Gosforth attacked in the centre where Keswick’s slowness to advance created some worrying problems. Weir’s received his first pass thanks to good straightening ‘on the inside’ by Robert Bland, Peter Wilson and Dan Stephenson. Weir only needed a metre of space to wriggle free and on a plastic surface he looked faster than ever over the 30 metre trip to the try line.

The Weir effect was repeated less than 5 minutes later and with Gosforth quiet and showing their first signs of defensive disarray there was a repeat performance of his earlier strike. Bland was again involved ensuring the priceless preservation of sufficient space to assist Weir’s escape from the restrictions of the touchline. Squirming free of a double tackle Weir stepped inside the Gosforth fullback and this time blasted 40 metres for a try under the crossbar. This was converted by Bland and Keswick had a lead of 12 points -10. To Gosforth Weir was the single most worrying presence in the Keswick attack and they were no doubt glad to see him leave the field suffering a bout of dizziness.

Also missing through injury at the start of the second half was influential Keswick lock Lewis Mungall, and Keswick began the second period shakily. Gosforth had clearly discussed the possibilities of attack through the centre channels and it was here that Keswick’s vulnerability continued to be most pronounced.

Ten minutes into the second half Gosforth hit Keswick with a heavy spell of pressure and two tries within five minutes, and one added conversion, created a two score lead. Keswick were not playing well and with no guarantee of worthwhile possession from anywhere Keswick’s prospects looked gloomy indeed.

Gosforth must have thought the game was won because it was they and not Keswick who showed the next unmissable signs of frailty. It began most noticeably with a determined run from the back of the pitch by Keswick fullback Chris Scrimgeour which evaded at least three non-tacklers and carried play to the edge of the Gosforth ‘22’. Gosforth recovered possession and cleared their lines but Keswick raised their game in response and at the next two lineouts Matty Atkinson secured Keswick’s best set piece possession of the day. Weir re-entered the fray and troubled Gosforth with a determined run out of defence which again established good ground for Keswick.

With Keswick pressing and advancing thanks to a resurgent pack and the more regular use of Scrimgeour as an extra centre, Gosforth’s left winger was closed upon by Connell and threw a poor pass from contact. The pass was intercepted by Bland who accepted the gift and scored just to the right of the posts. The score was the prelude to Keswick’s best spell of the match which saw Gosforth hanging on under fierce pressure but retaining enough composure to restrict Keswick to only one further try. This was scored with only 7 minutes of play remaining by Jack Beament and rewarded the power of Addyman, the creative wisdom of Creighton and a grafting contribution from the entire Keswick pack. Beament took his chance brilliantly but it was Keswick’s last visit to the home ‘22’. From then until the end of the match Keswick’s only attacks were those which cleared danger, and, agonisingly close to their own line for much of the time that remained Keswick’s commitment was admirable.

UNDER-13.

WIGTON 22 points – KESWICK 37.

Keswick know that it is always a good game against Wigton and after the Christmas break this match was keenly anticipated. The optimism was not misplaced and two very committed teams produced a 59 point thriller. Keswick travelled to Wigton with a 17 man squad but it was agreed that the match should be played 12-a side when Wigton declared a shortage of players.

Keswick began as the brighter side and shot into an early lead. Keswick’s fast backs Cameron Steel, George Holme, Jordan Markbride and Matty Rawlinson were keen to get their hands on the ball and with good support from forwards Dan Close-West and Stephen Moss it became very much a one way flow in Keswick’s favour. Up front there was creativity and graft from all the forwards with Keelan Johnson and Jonny Robinson ensuring hard yards at every opportunity. Keswick raced into a 20 point lead with tries by George, Jordan, Keelan and wing man Adam Price.

Keswick didn’t so much get tired but Wigton showed improved form. There was a loss of efficiency in Keswick’s movement of the ball especially between forwards and backs mainly due to Wigton’s improved form and Wigton’s defence certainly improved. Wigton scored three tries but in response there were further tries for Keswick by Matty, George and Jordan. Cameron kicked a conversion and Wigton scored another final try.

Keswick are showing promising form and this Sunday travel to Upper Eden to play an important County Cup match. Upper Eden is also a good place to go and win ,lose or draw this should be a very good game.

CUMBRIAN LEAGUE.

KESWICK 67 points – WORKINGTON STEELERS 3.

Keswick scored nearly two thirds of their points in the second half when Workington’s resistance crumbled under pressure and another Cumbrian League mismatch came to fruition. Some chances were missed but Keswick scored as many points as their play deserved and with one eye on imminent tougher matches Keswick at least resisted any temptation to cruise. Forthcoming contests which offer stiffer challenges will have a more profound bearing on the season’s outcome and the Keswick players are aware of this.

Keswick produced their best rugby of the match during a first half when Workington’s second-string tackled well and occasionally tested Keswick with long clearing kicks. For a while Keswick found these impossible to catch; some bounced and found touch, and some good counter attacking opportunities were lost. Workington worked hard ball in hand and produced some sound continuity. The biggest difference between the sides was that of pace and when Keswick accompanied this particular attribute with the well-chosen pass, they accessed big space and subsequently developed instant momentum during runs by Viv Wilmott, Bruce Rigby, Aaron Thompson, Jamie McKenzie, Matty Roper and David Ray. Even when the Workington defence was close and tightly packed the passes of Brian Storey, Thompson twice and Rigby led respectively to tries by Harry Hancock, Ray, Roper and Thompson; three conversions by Brain Storey produced a 26 points -3 half-time scoreline.

In the second half Keswick re shuffled their back division, played what they saw and successfully mastered increasingly difficult conditions. Harry Garner introduced at scrum half, immediately established a rapport with Storey and this had benefits for Roper, revelling in the freedom of life in the centre. Similarly impressive from the time of their introduction were replacement forwards Joe Roper and Karl Smyth. Roper made his mark with a succession of penetrative carries at the heart of the visitor’s defence and Smyth demonstrated commitment, movement in support as well as specialised prowess at the set piece for which he is renowned. There was freshness in Keswick’s approach which produced an upward change of pace and early tries for Hancock and Wilmott.

Keswick’s freedom to move increased as Workington’s resistance wilted. Extra space was best exploited by Garner, Roper and Wilmott who seized the opportunity to advance in the centre and by those forwards, most noticeably Thompson, Muir and Bentham, who were willing and able to track back and become involved in counter attacking moves. Breaks up the centre of the pitch by Thompson, Mike Branthwaite, Storey, and Ray led to tries by Wilmott and Thompson and after an obstruction on Rigby, a penalty try. All three tries were converted by Storey.

Keswick played with commitment and accuracy all the way to the end of the match and added tries by Wilmott, and, completing another hat trick of a high scoring season, Hancock.

North West League Division 4 (North)

SOUTHPORT 14 points – KESWICK 17.

This clash between second (Southport) and third (Keswick) was always going to be a tough close match and so it proved. Despite the unavailability of eight selected players the team which left Davidson Park contained two prop forwards, a lineout expert, a goal kicker, specialist half backs and a replacement, the basic components essential to serious ambition.

Keswick got off to a flier when one of those essential components, lock forward Eddie Keough, caught Southport unawares, and startled team mates, with a 30 metre turn of pace that ripped a gap which led to the try line. Paul Ireland landed an easy conversion and Keswick had a priceless lead.

The clash of styles which had been predicted produced an even game with Keswick doing more with less possession. On a firm dry pitch Keswick’s youngsters let rip whenever possible and from a break by Simon Grisdale Dean Robinson appeared in support and added a second try also converted by Ireland.

Southport were no mugs and adopted a physical approach which slowed the game and was rewarded by a converted try. Keswick were under increased pressure for a period after this, and either side of half time absorbed Southport’s shots and showed tackling prowess and defensive expertise as they did so. Joe Quail again led the Keswick team by example and inspired a great collective effort. The Keswick pack worked hard and overcame various knocks with well managed rotation. Ireland’s penalty was vital, creating a 17-7 lead inside the last quarter, which meant that Southport needed two scores to overtake.

Southport managed a try and conversion which emphasised the closeness of the contest and meant a grandstand finish during which time Keswick absorbed a lot of stick and kept shape under pressure.

FESTIVE RUGBY.

New Year’s Day

KESWICK ‘A’ 18 points – PENRITH ‘A’ 14.

Keswick and Penrith maintain a proud tradition Christmas holiday rugby which was even more welcome this season because of a break extended by the fixture planners and the postponements made necessary by the shocking weather of the pre-Christmas period.

This was the second and better of the two matches played between the clubs over the festive period. Keswick ‘A’ lost 12-24 at Penrith on Boxing Day when with a dogged display they overcame the handicap of a depleted squad to create a very close finish. The achievement on New Year’s Day was similar in most respects but with a different result. This was a deserved win for Keswick who, with a team changed from Boxing Day by seven different faces, confronted, and stoically overcame, opponents of undoubted quality as well as the problem of squad depletion.

The crowd was substantially larger than it had been on Boxing Day and from the first whistle they were entertained by an absorbing contest played at pace and with great skill on a heavy pitch. Keswick were clearly underweight up-front but compensated for this with speed to the breakdown and a preparedness to constantly keep possession alive through their trust in the early pass. Maintenance of Keswick’s fast tempo was ensured by the contributions of scrum half Dean Robinson, flanker Joe Quail, 17 year old debutant lock Lewis Davis, hooker Tom Garner and flanker at prop Stephen Hodgson. This quintet most often led forward charges and when defending inspired collective strength at the tackle and discipline at the breakdown. Keswick stole some early turnovers and Penrith conceded eight first half penalties to Keswick’s two.

This helped during an otherwise even first quarter when the Keswick backs looked to be the most dangerous attackers on the pitch. However, the superiority suggested by Harry Garner’s invention and the runs of centres Lewis Thompson and James Rush and winger Ollie Dunn was only marginal. The Penrith pack, helped by the slow pitch countered Keswick’s edge with the use of close drives which made ground and kept possession for what seemed like minutes at a time. Even with the wind, and a favourable penalty count, Keswick ended the first quarter with nothing more to show than a penalty landed by stand-off Harry Garner. It was vital that Keswick score more points and that they do this without conceding any; a breakthrough was achieved when hooker Garner defied the odds and successfully won a scrum strike against the head. Keswick made ground from the steal and were awarded a kickable penalty just to the left of the sticks. It was a near certain three points but always up for a gamble Harry Garner played the ball and quick passing allowed Andy Muir to smash his way over the line for a priceless try. In such a close game a try was infinitely more welcome than a penalty.

Penrith suffered no damage to morale and for what remained of the half battered Keswick inside their ’22’ and, for a protracted period, within reaching distance of the try line. The sequence began when Dunn made a superb last ditch tackle on a Penrith back breaking free. Mike Branthwaite the Keswick full back followed this with the first of a series of clearing runs from impossible positions but even this could not end the danger. Penrith returned and in the left corner mounted a succession of concentrated attacks. These were aimed mostly at the Keswick edges where the tackling began well and soon got better, and twice Penrith were driven back by an accurately delivered rush defence. With no margin for defensive error Keswick reduced Penrith’s attacking options and achieved a first half clean sheet that was imperative.

Penrith were able to boost their side at half time with the addition of some experienced old hands and some less experienced fresh legs. Keswick who were without replacements were happy to continue playing the way they had done in the first half and knew that in the circumstances their fitness was their most steadfast ally.

The second half began identically to the first with lots of big commitment either side of the half way line and breaks by either side few and far between thanks mainly to good tackling. It was Keswick who made the first inroads and a well-constructed left to right passing move initiated by Garner confirmed Keswick’s potential and that given the necessary service the Keswick backs could flourish.

Keswick’s commitment in the forward exchanges was therefore vital and during the third quarter the set scrum held firm, the lineout produced a steady return and the loose play confirmed the undoubted battling qualities of James Hinkley, James Benson and Kofi Barnes. Muir and Robinson combined smoothly to link forwards and backs, and midfielders Garner, Rush and Thompson showed the priceless reliability that comes with familiarity and understanding through practice of varied and appropriate alignment. Keswick made some good approaches but extended their lead only after Penrith dropped the ball inside their ‘22’. Robinson was first to spot the possibilities and in a flash retrieved the ball and from 20 metres dashed over the line to score. Keswick were happy but knew that a 13 point margin was far from safe.

The game loosened and Penrith maintained momentum thanks to a more open approach and well managed player rotation. Penrith scored a converted try after changes in the front row and at half back undoubtedly provided them with more variety. Keswick lost possession running penalty possession when a safer option might have been recommended, and with 16 minutes on the clock it was still anybody’s game.

Keswick were in no way dispirited by the setback and continued to play pass as first option. They knew they had to score next and did. Robinson and Garner threw lineout possession quickly. There was a breakdown but no slowed ball and when Garner spotted poorly defended territory on the short side quick passing gave right winger Josh Clark a half chance 10 metres out from the line. Clark who is appreciative of the half chance made a typically determined dash and was merely wobbled by a brave attempt to tackle. Clark scored and Keswick went into the last 10 minutes of the match holding an 18-7 lead.

Penrith closed the gap with a second converted try and for a Keswick side showing the first signs of tiredness it was a wake- up call which inspired a decisive finish. Penrith played some accurately delivered hard driving power play but were kept at bay by Keswick’s repeat performance of the defensive heroics of the first half, albeit executed this time at a safer distance. Branthwaite kept his cool amidst the pressure and ran the ball away from danger areas even when his options were reduced by determined Penrith chases. Quail continued to set the finest possible example and led the side in exemplary fashion. Keswick maintained good discipline, and with it a favourable penalty count, until the final whistle.

There is no doubt that for those ‘A’ teamers who played at Christmas the match practice will provide an advantage in Saturday’s difficult North West League assignment away to Southport ‘A’.

Cumbrian League.

CREIGHTON 0 – KESWICK 22 points.

Such was the up and mostly down nature of the weather during the preceding week that there was doubt until the morning of the match about whether or not this game would go ahead. Some, but not all, Keswick players trained during the week, and on both occasions in gruesome conditions where match play would have been impossible. The weather got worse as the week wore on, but the snow that affected Keswick and south west Scotland sidestepped Carlisle and despite predictions of Friday night frost, there had to be an assumption made that the match would take place. Players were urged to prepare as normal.

This was always going to be a difficult game for Keswick against one of the stronger sides in the Cumbrian League; additionally Keswick who haven’t played for three weeks, were without David Ray and Bryan Storey who have both been on very good form this season. On their own pitch, slowed by excessive rain and a bit of late frost, Creighton were justifiably persuaded by logic which suggested that this seemed like the ideal time to play Keswick.

And they were absolutely right, the pitch which was soft to start with and claimed as its first victim Keswick’s leading scorer Harry Hancock en route to an likely second minute try, became very soft as the game wore on and that was only in the best places. As a result Keswick fashioned fewer try scoring opportunities than usual and, when they did, found that running in support was as much compromised by the gluepot as was striking for space ball in hand. Such conditions are now a bit of a rarity and Keswick were to be admired for the application of an effective plan B.

The scene was set for a difficult first half when Hancock was released by Andy Wallace’s pass. With one lightning-fast step Hancock was free of his immediate marker but then just as quickly lost purchase in his standing foot and was sucked face first into an uncharted muddy puddle. The incident served to warn Keswick that in the circumstances normal try scoring routes could not necessarily be relied upon to provide satisfactory outcomes and that in their quest to slow Keswick down Creighton had a priceless natural ally.

Keswick’s best early moves originated with the ball in the hands of Viv Wilmott who’s grasp of the concept of running at space became a feature of an otherwise attritional half. From fast ball delivered from a steady and reliable set piece, Wilmott stepped inside and out and seemed to have a penchant for finding the most viable ground. What Keswick struggled to do was support Wilmott effectively and on many occasions where passes would have provided the best outlet, play was strangled by wrap-ups which led to the formation of rucks and a vanishing ball. Those same rucks often ended in penalty awards, usually against Keswick, thus adding to the frustration.

Hancock opened Keswick’s account after good work from Matty Roper and a try scoring pass from Wilmott, The try showed the value of simple continuity and marked the start of Keswick’s best attacking spell of the half. Good breaks in the midfield by Jamie McKenzie and Aaron Thompson would have led to tries in better conditions, but a second try by Hancock, converted from a stodgy place by Roper, was proof that well considered running lines, from depth, and the appropriate pass given pre-contact, can expose any defence even on the worst of days.

Other than their landslide concession of penalties Keswick were reasonably pleased with their first -half effort. Not for the first time this season Keswick were satisfied that they had the reserves of fitness to step up the effort in the second period and that this was essential to secure both a four try win, and a win without conceding any points. Creighton had spent so little time in the Keswick ‘22’ during the first half that their real attacking potential was unknown. Keswick had defended efficiently, usually just beyond the half way line but it was suspected that Creighton had more to offer.

In the early second half it was Keswick who dominated the territorial battle. There were good carries into the Creighton ’22’ by Mike Branthwaite and Lewis Thompson and an alert drift blocked Hancock’s further progress after a half break and deft pass from Aaron Thompson. A good period of pressure by Keswick was rewarded with a try scored with great skill by Branthwaite who sold a dummy and stepped through a gap between hesitant Creighton centres. Keswick had an enhanced winning lead and still Creighton had not mounted a truly threatening attack.

The game was made safe for Keswick towards the end of the third quarter when forward pressure weakened Creighton’s determined edge defence and Ben Bentham powered over the line to score. It was the fourth try that Keswick wanted and with a man in the sin bin, an added security cushion against a Creighton comeback.

The flow of play changed quite quickly with events greatly influenced by Creighton’s surge of energy and the loss of two more Keswick players to the sin bin. For a period of 18 minutes Keswick were reduced to 13 men and as is their purpose the sanctions compounded the problems of repeated loss of possession and yardage through penalty concession. Creighton, who had survived the loss of one of their forwards to the sin bin during the first half, rallied powerfully and for the full duration of Keswick’s reduction in man power pounded the Keswick try line with a variety of close ‘pick and goes’, ‘one out’ charges and wide attacks. A Creighton score looked inevitable and in their quest for a try two kickable penalty chances were spurned for attempts at greater reward. Keswick’s well delivered defensive effort was indicative of grasp of the task, confidence in the next man and a total commitment to the tackle. As usual Carrick Wharmby was a conspicuous tower of strength, leading a strong line with vigorous efficiency. With discipline came escape made more permanent thanks to the restoration of a full side and the less prolific concession of penalties.

Thanks partly to the gradual introduction of all 5 of their replacements Keswick were able to build to a strong finish and successive runs deep into the heart of the Creighton ‘22’ by Andy Muir supported by Matty Roper, Wharmby, Tom Partington and Bryan Mol almost achieved further tries. There was a strip of relatively good ground inside the Creighton ‘22’ so Keswick were unable to ascribe the failure to add to their tally to anything other than desperate but effective last ditch defence by Creighton. The home side deserve credit for restricting Keswick to their narrowest winning margin of the season.

KESWICK ‘A’.

Some postponements are easier to make than others, the subject is a minefield, influenced and complicated by numerous factors and in the opinion of a great many pundits one where direct involvement is best avoided.

The biggest factors influencing the management of Keswick ‘A’ games this season are those of geography, transport and time and it is generally the case that where bad weather persists and the relevant match grows closer, such considerations become as important as the weather forecast and the condition of the appointed pitch. Postponement of matches played in The Cumbrian League is a far less complicated procedure and because of mutual understanding of the value of ‘late decisions’, comes with the guarantee of greater accuracy. Based on a Friday evening assessment Keswick’s most recent match against Creighton for instance, was deemed ‘likely’ to take place but because of predicted overnight frost a final confirmation could not be made until Saturday morning.

Such accuracy is not possible where greater distances are involved and after consultation Keswick and Burnley agreed to postpone based on pitch conditions as they existed at 4-00 pm on Friday.

UNDER-16.

MORPETH 14 points – KESWICK 39.

This was a good contest, won by Keswick because of their fitness, work rate and persistent, accurate application of a free flowing passing game. For 75 per cent of the time the game was end to end and was dead close. Entering the final quarter with a 17 points – 14 lead Keswick were not certain of victory, but inspired by the form of their leading players and a belief in their fitness, built to a big finish.

In a lapse which was to repeat its self, Keswick’s indecision in receipt of kick off led to a bit of chaos and the need for an instant response. Morpeth won a scrum, crept forward, kept possession and in firing some determined fringe runners turned the screw. James Addyman and Robert Bland were called upon to deliver try saving tackles, so too was Matty Horne who dislodged the ball. A boot up field by Bland cleared the danger and the passage served as an early wake up call.

Keswick soon found a comfortable rhythm and a handling move involving Peter Wilson, Bland and Christian Sellars found Dan Stephenson in space on the right wing. Stephenson was stopped but the move demonstrated Keswick’s potential and real willingness, plus ability, to seek space through the early pass. Keswick’s next attacking move was inspired by the powerful forward thrust of Addyman who forged space through a congested channel and continued his progress thanks to a series of effective hand-offs. The Keswick support for Addyman was instant, Morpeth were back footed thanks to Wilson’s ability to instantly return to upright after being tackled, and slick passing covered the width of the pitch. Bland received the final pass 1 metre inside the touchline and dived over for a brilliant opening score.

Morpeth replied instantly with a shrewd harder hit kick-off into the same area as their earlier effort. This time a Keswick deflection meant the ball made dead was Morpeth’s and play was re started by means of an attacking 5 metre scrum. Keswick resisted for a couple of phases but Morpeth kept the ball and drove over for a try which converted gave them a 7-5 lead. The game became a fast and furious exchange between two well matched sides and for 15 minutes developed a very distinctive tit for tat pattern where Morpeth’s forward power was complimented by the tactical kicks of their half backs and the Keswick replies were usually inspired by the adventurous run backs of full back Chris Scrimgeour. Scrimgeour ran at spaces, sometimes narrow ones between big forwards and his ambition, supported by centres Wilson and Wood and loose forwards Horne and Christian Sellars, always created opportunities to develop dangerous attacks. When it was needed Keswick’s big forwards Lewis Mungall and Ross Connell made the hard yards and Addyman was never far behind them and constantly involved. The Keswick effort was most conspicuously driven by scrum half Jim Creighton whose distribution from the base was rapid and enlightened and meant that increasingly supporting runs in the close channels and wider were launched before the opposition could properly set their defence.

Keswick built pressure through precise continuity and after a rolling maul involving most of the pack scored a try under the crossbar by Sellars, converted by Bland. Keswick played out the first half setting a very quick pace and on the last play of the half a sustained attack only just failed to produce again a scoring finish for Sellars.

Keswick’s aspiration was derailed in the first minute of the second half when a speculative Morpeth kick was allowed to bounce and was gathered by their chasing left winger. The wingman hit the gas and from 45 metres finished the try underneath the crossbar.

Keswick reacted in the best possible way and with runs by Addyman and Bland immediately re -established territory in the Morpeth half. The third quarter became tight and hard with a great many fiercely contested exchanges either side of the half way line. There was a similar battle at scrum time, where honours were even, and, at the touchline where the relationship between hooker Stuart Gray and principal jumper Matty Atkinson improved to give Keswick the edge. Atkinson also stole some possession from Morpeth’s throw which in such a close match was a very welcome bonus.

Keswick achieved a major breakthrough in the 51st minute with a spectacular score finished wide on the right by flying wingman Stephenson. The build-up was typical with a succession of fast passes hitting deep runners each guaranteeing the preservation of space through dedicated straightness.

The try created an explosion of confidence amongst the Keswick players who recovered quickly from yet another botched receipt of kick off and returned to the Morpeth half thanks to another ambitious and speedy escape by Scrimgeour. This time Scrimgeour exchanged passes with wingman Brendan Jones before straightening and flying over the line for Keswick’s fourth try.

Keswick’s scoring potential accelerated in parallel to a strange and unaccountable decline in Morpeth’s structure prompted by an unclear internal dispute. Keswick showed great maturity but there is no doubt that Morpeth’s disharmony helped Keswick in their quest for control and the delivery of an emphatic finish. Playing the pre contact pass to perfection Keswick scored and were awarded another four tries by Scrimgeour again, Stephenson again, Connell and Addyman but in declaring a final scoreline of 14-39 it is clear that the referee failed to record one of the tries.

UNDER-13.

MORPETH 41 points – KESWICK 14.

Keswick under-13s took on their Morpeth counterparts on an attractive hidden pitch across the river and road from the main Morpeth ground. The Keswick team are improving with every match and were really ‘up’ for their furthest away trip yet. It was not very warm but it was sunny at Morpeth which was a nice contrast to the cold wet weather left behind in Keswick and the snow which was falling abundantly on the M6.

Before the match it was agreed that the contest should be played in 4 quarters, which is always a good idea for players still learning how to master the full pitch game. Morpeth were bigger than Keswick and they made this significant advantage pay during their 7 tries -2 victory. They did this mostly by keeping possession and by making better progress ball in hand. This was achieved through more productive driving, which, when followed by the release of the ball and the development of plays through enlightened passing can lead to penetrations away from the melee. This is mostly what Morpeth did, thus demonstrating the concept of playing to one’s strengths and the value of sound coaching.

Keswick’s coaches Howard Winter and Gary Metcalfe have produced a similarly well-organized side with a very clear vision of the best way to play. However in this match Morpeth’s superior muscle meant progress through the forwards was difficult and the Keswick backs received possession from rucks and mauls that were slow or sometimes even retreating. Despite this Keswick were always super determined, enjoyed themselves and never gave up in their quest to score tries.

And the two tries Keswick scored were both good efforts. The first by Jordan Markbride was from a long range move which arrived in the late first quarter just after Morpeth had established a two try lead.

Keswick passed the ball into space early and Jordan stepped outside his marker and sprinted 35 metres for a great score which was converted by George Holme. It was a typical Jordan try and one that Keswick could have scored more of if a greater share of possession could have been sourced.

Keswick’s second try was a deserved consolation and reward for a good response to Morpeth’s claim to victory through the addition of five more tries. Morpeth were attacking but determined Keswick tackling led by Matty Scott meant a turn- over of possession. The loose ball was quickly claimed by Matty Rawlinson who left the cover standing and from 60 metres scored a great acclaimed by supporters of both sides. George landed a very difficult conversion with the last kick of the match.

NORTH WEST LEAGUE.

KESWICK ‘A’ 41 points – TARLETON ‘A’ 5.

As usual for a home match Keswick had plenty players and nobody was dissuaded by the wind chill and driving rain. The match took place on Greta Grove which offered the benefit of floodlights, but also the prospect of a boggy and deteriorating pitch.

The match kicked off twenty minutes late but Tarleton who were bigger than Keswick, particularly in the forwards, were well organized and showed no signs of bus legs. They kept play tight in accordance with the conditions and for the first ten minutes denied Keswick any possession. Throughout this period the Keswick defence was rock solid and despite their claim of territory Tarleton were unable to make any meaningful penetrations. As usual, wind assisted, Tarleton were tempted to kick and in the early stages this gave Keswick their only possession. Keswick opened up and showed Tarleton what to expect when the ball was moved to space. After 12 minutes a passing sequence involving Paul Ireland, Simon Grisdale, Sam Greenwell and Josh Clark ate yards on the right and full back James Rush arrived to take Clark’s well timed inside pass. Rush outstripped the cover and scored from 50 metres. The move gave Keswick the confidence to defy the weather and play the way they always do.

For a while Tarleton were quick to read Keswick’s intentions, marked well and made their tackles; there is no doubt that Keswick were second best – by some distance, in the set scrum and although Tarleton exploited this with good scrum pushes they gained little advantage when the ball was picked up and advanced from the base. The ground conditions helped Keswick in this respect but even more effective in slowing Tarleton’s advances were the determined tackles of Keswick’s back rower triumvirate of Joe Quail, Robbie Steel and Tim Ashbridge. Quail was particularly noticeable turning defence into attack where he soon became Keswick’s most prominent ball carrier and the Keswick man most difficult to knock back.

The Keswick backs accepted the scrum situation and, clearly benefitted from the go forward provided by the pack in other areas, attacked from anywhere on the pitch. Greenwell and left winger Ollie Dunn made speedy escapes and Grisdale was soon running freely thanks to his educated eye for the best line. Grisdale scored Keswick’s second and fourth tries with runs through a defence beaten on half way and either side of a shorter range effort scored by Steel. Close to half time Dunn scorched down the left, and scored Keswick’s fifth try of the match and his 14th of the season.

Keswick made some changes at half time and were pleased to welcome Jacob Tonkin and Chris Highton for their first matches of the season, Garfield Burt, who was returning from injury and Eddie Bell and Will Ruggles who are not always available because of work commitments but always play well whenever they are.

In order to acclimatise the newcomers Keswick had to compromise their style somewhat but it was Tarleton’s determined improvement and the seriously deteriorating conditions that were principal key factors in the emergence of a slower more attritional game. Keswick really began to struggle in the scrums and scrum pressure meant Tarleton had an increasingly secure platform from which they could launch attacks. Keswick had a good lead and so were not unduly unsettled when Tarleton scored a try within five minutes of the re start. To Keswick’s credit the visitors never got so close again and despite continuing scrum mishaps including the loss through injury of Tonkin and Bell Keswick defended well. An attack which exploited to the maximum a turnover of possession claimed in the tackle by Quail, led to a blockbusting try for Keswick prop Joe Roper. This marked the start of a period where Keswick’s more focussed defensive efficiency, particularly in the aftermath of lost scrums, became the start point for their best attacks. With Ireland and Grisdale at the centre of most of their best plays Keswick maintained a willingness to attempt handling moves in defiance of the conditions.

There was an appreciable deterioration in the weather during the final quarter and the contest became a serious test of character and endurance; Tarleton had some big tough lads not fazed by a bit of iced rain but Keswick’s smaller forwards seemed fitter and more able to get back to their feet after time spent on the bottom. Keswick’s final try was scored by Burt who along with the endlessly energetic Dean Robinson provided a try scorers instinct in support of a long run by Bell.

Ireland scored three conversions.