Castleford Panthers U9s v Stanley Rangers U9s
24.06.09

Stanley travelled to Castleford Panthers expecting a very tough encounter, and that’s exactly what they got as they were edged out in a thrilling battle.

The early exchanges showed that both teams have made great strides this season as they showed some good attacking flair that was matched with some disciplined defending. But it was the Panthers that made the early breakthrough as their stand off broke the line with a lovely step and ran 30 yards to open the scoring. Stanley responded in typical fashion, but to their credit the Panthers defence stood firm, and they increased their lead when the stand off again broke the line only for outstanding effort winner Alfie Goddard to chase him down for a try saving tackle, only for them to score from the next play.Stanley had managed to get themselves in some good positions during the early exchanges and it eventually paid off when Alfie Goddard beat 3 players to score near the corner and narrow the deficit.  

The start of the second half left Castleford in no doubt that Stanley were still in the game as the forward line of Owen Trout, Declan Honeyman, Stephen Gibbs and Kyle Holdroyd battered the home defence. Thi s paid dividends when a nice off load and some tired tackling from the home defence saw the determined Jake Smith force his way over in the corner. Stanley continued to pressure the home defence and a great off load from Alfie Goddard presented one of the Stanley forwards with a opportunity right on the Panthers try line, but unfortunately he was unable to take the pass and the chance was gone. Castleford extended their lead when the Stanley defence failed to deal with a very weak kick and after a couple of bounces the Panthers managed to get the vital touch to score.

This was a test of character for the Stanley boys, and they responded brilliantly, with a great spell of pressure and some good passing leading to away team man of the match Alfie Goddard scoring again. Stanley kept the pressure on the home defence lead by some strong running and nice off loading by man of steel Brett Miller . Stanley scored again when the intelligent Owen Trout latched onto a good kick from Alfie Goddard to touch down. Castleford are an excellent side and the game was played in a good manner considering how physical the match was. Stanley’s man of the match went to the ever impressive Ben Green, who’s consistency in defence is now being added to with some impressive attacking runs. There were also good performances from Liam Brady and Lewis Pearson, who’s support play was excellent.

Tries: Alfie Goddard (2), Owen Trout, Jake Smith.

Kicks: Alfie Goddard, Owen Trout.