Dewsbury Moor U14s 10 v Stanley Rangers U14s 20
13.09.09

Newly promoted Dewsbury Moor RL under 14s entertained the current league champions Stanley Rangers RL under 14s in the first round of games, with the visitors eventually running out 20-10 winners. 

This was a closely contested encounter and Stanley failed to execute early possession while Dewsbury proved solid in defense and played expansive attacking rugby, stretching the Stanley defense on the flanks. 

Some effective cover defense by the Stanley back line kept the scores level, however Dewsbury demonstrated that they have both the ability and commitment to play in the top league and eventually breached the Stanley defense to lead 6 – 0 at half time.

Stanley resumed the second half aggressively, but were again thwarted by the well drilled home side.  This was a ‘baptism of fire’ for the newly promoted Dewsbury side and they again stepped up to the mark and extended their lead to 10-0 with another well worked try. 

As the game entered the final quarter Stanley began to apply sustained pressure on the Dewsbury line and notched up 20 unanswered points.  Tom Mulhern opened the scoring for the visitors with a well worked back line move, creating space for a touchdown under the posts, Jordan Howden adding the conversion.  Jack Briggs added Stanley’s second try following another back line raid to touch down in the corner and level the scores.

Stanley continued to apply pressure and Tom Mulhern was on hand to complete two well worked moves to complete his hat-trick, Jordan Howden adding a further conversion.  Charlie Ledger was instrumental throughout the game, with quick hands around the ruck.  Will Carlos marked his debut with a series of strong penetrating runs and an effective defensive display.  Adam Newby was a decisive factor in Stanley’s back line defense, his excellent cover defense kept the Dewsbury score to a minimum.  Another debutant, Joe Fish also provided solid cover defense and made good in-roads into the Dewsbury territory, and was instrumental in Stanley’s winning try.  Vinnie Cross started this season where he left off last year.  His aggression in the contact area inspired Stanley’s second half comeback. 

Tom Mulhern was awarded ‘Man of the Match’ due to his solid defensive display and his effective support play which lead to his hat-trick of tries.