Despite Tyldesley’s lack of numbers they really gave the Bolton team a lesson in determination and strong running and scored 4 unanswered tries in the first half.
Sadly only Josh Holmes and Tom Hill offered any real answers to the visitor’s domination and only Maria Parkinson’s scintillating run down the right wing gave the home supporters something to cheer about.
At half time we swapped the three Tyldesley volunteers and Firth Lord’s play in a red shirt was excellent. The team pulled themselves together and started to play with some pride. Tyldesley scored first but Joe Hill replied with a lovely break and almost immediately Tom Hill scored himself in the opposite corner. Tom converted both scores with consummate ease.
William Brindle, playing his first game for Bolton, made some great contributions and his power in the tight is going to be a major attribute for the team in coming weeks. Whilst the whole side raised their performance in the second half, Faraaz Ali, is worthy of individual mention for his contributions.
It probably summed up the day when Tyldesley crashed over with the last touch of the game to reinforce their deserved victory.
Despite the loss we again took some major positives out of the run out and I’m sure we will be a better and stronger side from the experience. Break out those tackling bags again this week guys and let’s have a good trip to the seaside next Sunday.