Magnificent win for Clitheroe 2s guarantees safety

Clitheroe travelled to Leigh, never an easy place to visit, for a vital match in their battle against relegation. Clitheroe had a full bench and the selection combined youthful energy with many years of experience.

The game kicked off on a heavy pitch but the weather was warm and spring like (!)..for once.

Clitheroe started with energy, with Nat Dickerson carrying well and putting in good tackles. Nat was a catalyst for much that was good in the game and his teammates thrived off his energy.

However it was Leigh who raced into a 17-0 lead, through some good finishing and some ‘ unfortunate refereeing decisions ‘.
It wasn’t what the visitors deserved and eventually Dickenson crossed the line to redress the balance somewhat. The extras were added by Furbush and Clitheroe maintained the pressure by scoring again through Haynes, who had an exceptional game and is in great form.
Leigh went down the other end in a see saw game and scored again but back again came Clitheroe and crossed the line through S Thornber.
Sam carried the ball superbly throughout the match and created much that was good from the visitors. The extras were added but again Leigh scored and at half time the score stood at 29-19 to the hosts.

Captain Taylor rallied his troops at half time and replacements were made, with Pate replacing Murray. Murray’s return to the team has been very welcome, with his presence and no little skill greatly adding to the pack.

The second half kicked off and it was all Clitheroe. Furbush added a penalty, James Dickenson continued to smash through the opposition in a strong game and Haynes, Farnsworth and Hayton fed off the increasing errors from the hosts.

D Jones and Farnsworth were going well in the engine room, the back row of Thornber, Shorthouse and Hayton were creating havoc.
In the back line, Few and Watson marshalled their troops very well, making great use of the quick ball provided to find space and opportunity.

Gretton and his tacking remains an enigma and Taylor carried well and had another good game in his return to form.
Further tries were added, from Pate, Hayton Haynes and the excellent Furbush as Clitheroe pulled away. Wensley had to go off after a knock and Gretton replaced him at wing with Furbush going to full back and Haynes into the centres.

A new slim line Smith made his first appearance this year at second row after Jones was replaced. Smith caused disruption in the home pack and smashed over to score a trademark try.

Clitheroe eventually ran out winners 54 points to 36, which was harsh on Leigh but a deserved victory nonetheless.

A special mention to front row stalwarts W Jones and A Thornber [pic] who were solid in set piece and great in the loose. However man of the match goes to Haynes for his all round performance.

The 2s are at Littlemoor next week versus Fylde.

Report by SD