Clitheroe come out on top at the nail-biter at Holt House

Clitheroe U16s travelled to local rivals Colne & Nelson wanting to build on their fine win against Bury last weekend. The side lost back down forward just before kick off and other than that they were at full strength with the pack also bolstered by the return of prop Brown.

Both teams started brightly and the game was played in an open and combative manner with neither team taking a backward step. Clitheroe were first to score with centre McLeod bursting through to score a fine try. The hosts hit right back with two tries of their own in relatively quick succession, rocking the Clitheroe lads, however the pressure was put back on the hosts by some strong and direct attacking from backs and forwards. Close to the line, prop Calton-Whittaker dived over in Ashton-esque style to level the try count. Colne & Nelson had the best play of the back end of the half and scored right on half time to take a 17-10 lead at the break.

Clitheroe certainly started the second half the brighter of the two sides although the home side weren't giving in one bit. 6 minutes in, hooker Spink capped a fine game with a try, stretching over after a bulldozing run. Duck's only conversion of the game tied the scores at 17 a piece.

The game then became more frantic and no doubt more enjoyable for the considerable crowd. with play going from end to end. Half way through the second half came Clitheroe's ultimate winning try. Prop Brown sprinted all of 70 yards, handing off those daring to tackle him. He was eventually dragged down and after a couple more phases Brown was on hand to grab a ball that popped out of the ruck to score in the corner.

The remaining 10 or so minutes were again very competitive with both teams coming close to further scores. Colne & Nelson weer pushing close to Clitheroe's line in the last few seconds but their game prop couldn't quite force himself over. The referee blew for time and Clitheroe celebrated a famous away win.

So, two wins from three at the start of the season is a great return for this side. There were numerous good performances and although they didn't play superbly as a team, their defence was a massive improvement compared to recent performances. This team has much more to give and I know the coaches find them a pleasure to help develop as individual rugby players and as a team.