It was a credit to both teams that they managed to put out sides at such an early point in the season for a Junior Colts League match – Moor’s first for 7 years. The early exchanges were error-strewn and both packs worked hard to gain the ascendancy. Dukinfield looked the more organised team, but Moor defended and tackled with courage and intent to deny the opposition scoring chances. Eventually the Moor defence  became overstretched and Dukinfield scored a well-worked try using the overlap advantage to good effect. The conversion was successful but the lead short-lived, as Moor released fly half Edwards in the visitor’s 22. A slick dummy scissors enabled him to cross the line but a failed conversion attempt meant Moor trailed by 2 points.

Dukinfield surged again and emphasised the lead, capitalising on turnover ball to touch down. Moor were becoming guilty of over-elaborating and this was not working against the directness of the Dukinfield team. Rucks were being lost through not using feet in stalemate situations, and too many individual breaks were not supported closely enough to prove advantageous. Set re-starts also began to wobble and the home side had to concentrate hard to bring the ship back in line. Moor were 7 points behind as the half time whistle blew.

Changes were made at half time enabling a clutch of new recruits to join the fray, and they did not disappoint! Chris Flaherty made two crucial tackles on the right wing and the two Jameses slotted into the backs well. Shane was already having a stand-out game at hooker, despite a bloody nose; Carl looked useful at full-back and will surely play a large part in the team this year. Owens and Gilbert shared a flanker spot to great effect.

The forwards began to dominate the loose exchanges with Ireland, Taylor and Bolland rampant, ably supported by Caveman. The scrum became more settled and Bardsley looked impressive in the lineout.

A quick tap penalty saw skipper Ireland cross the line to bring Moor within 2 points – Edwards converted and the scores were level. Moor began to use the ball intelligently and kicked into Dukinfield territory to pressure the opponent’s line. A set scrum released Edwards who took a run-around ball and fed Breen who clung on to a long pass to outpace the defence and score in the corner. Moor exerted extra pressure from a messy kick-off and eventually gained 3 points for a penalty offence in the Dukinfield 22.

Moor played out extra time to record their first win of the season in the opening fixture – an impressive display from the team, and a marker down for a performance away at Glossop next week.