Whitchurch 32 vs Kirkby Lonsdale 13

The oft-used phrase, “Ground out a win”, has never been more apt than this incredible fight back by Whitchurch Rugby Club this weekend. The large Cumbrian side came down with an air of confidence and brought a large number of supporters with them.

Their confidence appeared well founded when they went 13 to nil up after on as many minutes. The game looked as disappointing as the weather as the hosts were struggling to hold off their northern guests.

Eventually, the reds began to take some control and, after 25 minutes made their grit and determination pay off when Robbie Leighton kicked over a penalty to put Whitchurch on the scoreboard. The home side took total charge and, within minutes, Elliot Horton touched down following a period of pressure. The scores were now only five points apart as skipper James Hockenhull fired up his troops. As half-time approached, the backs were given free rein and Hockenhull crossed to draw level. Robbie Leighton kicked the conversion to put Whitchurch two points ahead at half time.

          The second half saw the home side dominate completely with hardly a chance given to their visitors. Tries from Nathan Horton followed shortly after by another one for the outstanding flanker who picked up a fumble by a Lonsdale player and raced through. Leighton got a conversion and Whitchurch looked comfortably. Nathan was denied a hat-trick by the whistle interpreting the final pass to be forward. Jake Rees got in on the act with a final try as the game finished.

          The turnaround was so complete that few of the large crowd were surprised but, on reflection, to score 32 unanswered points when losing by 13 points was a great testimony to the side and the club.