Who needs subs?

Littleborough u13s welcomed Heath on a bright dry day on the Yorkshire/Lancashire border. Heath had 13 players captained by Ethan Gill and pack led by Logan Helliwell-MacDonald, and no subs due to unavailability of Aman Mekala and Louie Moss. Our opponents had a large squad which combined their u13s with some u12s playing up.

Littleborough kicked off and Heath were immediately of the front foot. Within two minutes the ball went out from Lennon Wood, Sonny Gordon right to Ethan Murphy to score. 0-5. At restarting Heath gathered well and tipped onto Logan Hall who went over from 40 metres. 0-10. Heath were here to play.

Littleborough responded well and forced an error by Heath. In the Heath 20 Littleborough broke through the stubborn defence and scored 5-10.

At kick-off Heath put pressure on Littleborough. After a turnover Logan Helliwell-MacDonald bust through two tackles to score. 5-15.

With 10 mins to go in the first half Heath started to build a lead. The back line was gelling well and Murphy score a brace of tries through great handling by Heath from set piece. 5-25.

The first half was finished by two further well constructed tries by Logan Hall and Humphrey Hall. 5-35 HT.

In the opening play of the second half outstanding hooker Logan Helliwell-MacDonald twisted his knee and led to Heath playing 12 v 13 for the rest of the game. Littleborough started to contain Heath. Both teams were going at it particularly in the forwards. Lewis Farrell, Jasper Haigh and Lennon Fermoyle were starting to make big runs and hits.

Heath were able to score two further tries by a dangerous and promising centre partnership of Murphy and Hall. Final score 5-45.

A big thank you to our hosts Littleborough. A genuine grass roots club which gave a warm welcome. Cannot wait to return the favour later in the year back at West Vale.

Heath u13s are becoming a tight unit and playing rugby either purpose. Coaches Gordon and Wood are proud of all of the lads. Two weeks into 23/24 season and plenty more to opportunities to grow.

On to next week!