Bolton u15s back to winning ways

New opposition for the u15s this week as Old Brodleians of Halifax tracked over the Pennines for a first friendly fixture between the two teams. Any thoughts Bolton had that the visitors would ease into the game following their long journey were immediately dispelled some great handling and strong running gave the opening score. This was the wake up call the Cherry & Whites required and some good interplay between forwards and backs and Luke Bagnall was once again on hand to bring Bolton back level with a typical charging run, converted by Issac Prescott. Both teams were now playing lovely running lovely in excellent conditions and Brodleians were next to score again following a long flowing move. Bolton sensed route one may be the best option and Tom Didlock and Matthew Barlow put Bolton into a strong position, quick ball was allowing the forwards to get on the front foot and captain Marcus Crompton looked to have scored but the unsighted referee ruled the ball was held up. From the resulting scrum, Bolton were not to be denied with Robert Harris feeding Shingi Chirimuta to score in the corner – a superb touchline conversion gave Bolton a half time lead
Bolton 14, Old Brodleians 12
A supern kicj chase from the excellent Kynan Smith put pressure on the visitors immediately, tackling three players in quick succession put the opposition back into their 22, every charge was met with a Bolton player and finally a loose pass was pounced on by Owen Critchlow who reacted first to the bouncing ball to score his first of the day converted by Prescott. In what was becoming a see saw match, it was Boltons turn to defend deep in their 22 but with Ed Webster forcing a turnover, quick hands through the backline and Owen Critchlow found himself in space, rounded the winger and ran in from 50m for his second score. Bolton were unable to see off their opponents however and once again some good breakdown play from Brodleians pushed Bolton back and this time there was no mistake as the visitors scored their third try to bring themselves back into contention. Issac Prescott had other ideas and having been fed by Lewis Warburton, showed great power and pace to score another long range try for the home team converted by Sam Howie. Full credit to the Yorkshire side, showing great character and commitment to the end, rather than give up, they were determined to finish on a high and with the last play of the game were able to score a deserved fourth try leaving the final score
Bolton 33, Old Brodelians 22