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Open Age Match Reports 2008-09

Earlier Reports in the Gallery

Rylands were brought down to earth with a lesson in attacking rugby, the Sharks had two good spells in each half scoring trys through a Wez Lawton good acting half run, converted by Pete Leonard and a Jono Smith kick and chase, which he also goaled. This was on a day when heads dropped and tackles were missed, we can only get better, the three players picked out in a very disappointing performance were: Phil Stevens, Carl Lloyd and Wez Lawton.

Rylands: Carl Lloyd, Ash Faulkner, Mike Ward, Craig Rigby, Danny Hoyland, Neil Evans, Pete Leonard, Ned Froggett, Danny Forster, Simon Walter, Phil Stevens, Mal Mason, Mark Robinson, Wez Lawton, Iain Ratcliffe, Jono Smith and Pete Harrigan.

Rylands Sharks 30 Ashton Bears 28

Rylands beat Lancashire Cup finalists Ashton Bears in an enthralling game at Gorsey Lane.

Rylands took an early lead when Peter Leonard and Chris Forster combined to send in Craig Rigby for the first try. Ashton levelled soon after but Rylands regained the lead when Wez Lawton went over from dummy half and Leonard added the extras. Ashton responded again with a converted try to bring the score to 10-10. Great work from Danny Forster created a try for Phil Stevens and soon after Mark Robinson went over both converted by Leonard to give Rylands a 22-10 advantage. On the stroke of half time Ashton narrowed the gap to six with a converted try and five minutes into the second half Ashton were level at 22 apiece. Adam Poole restored The Sharks lead with an unconverted try but on 60 minutes Ashton took the lead for the first time with a converted try to lead 28-26 and Rylands had to dig deep in the final 20 minutes to snatch victory. With only 5 minutes remaining a break from Man of the Match Mike Ward was supported by Rigby who went over in the corner to give Rylands a 2 point lead. Ashton were awarded a penalty straight from the restart but the penalty attempt hit the post. Ashton continued to press the Rylands line from the goal line drop out and only a last ditch tackle from Peter Leonard secured a hard earned Rylands victory, Mike Ward, Pete Leonard, Ned Froggett and Wez Lawton stood out in a overall great team display.

Rylands: Danny Hoyland, Ash Faulkner, Neil Evans, Craig Rigby, Adam Poole, Chris Forster, Pete Leonard, Ned Froggett, Wez Lawton, Mark Robinson, Phil Stevens, Iain Ratcliffe, Mike Ward, Danny Forster, Mal Mason, Pete Harrigan and Mark Forster.

Saddleworth Rangers 12 Rylands Sharks 34

The Sharks travelled full of confidence and came away with a well earned place in the 2nd of the Lancashire cup. Phil Stevens went over on 12 mins after good work from hooker Wez Lawton, goaled by Pete Leonard. Lawton was next on the score sheet after a powerful burst from dummy half. In the 2nd half the home resilience was broken when winger Danny Hoyland tore down the touchline from his own half beating 3 defenders for a superb individual try, with Leonard adding the goal. Rylands pulled clear in the final quarter with loose forward Jono Smith bursting over for 2 well taken scores, followed by Smith putting Danny Shaw in out wide, all converted by Leonard. A superb all round display with Phil Stevens, Carl Lloyd, Danny Shaw and Jono Smith outstanding for the Sharks.

Rylands; Carl Lloyd, Danny Hoyland, Neil Evans, Danny Shaw, Adam Poole, Chris Forster, Pete Leonard, Ned Froggett, Wez Lawton, Mark Robinson, Phil Stevens, Craig Rigby, Jono Smith, Danny Forster, Mal Mason, Pete Harrigan and Gaz Hewitt.

Rylands Sharks 42 Latchford Albion 0

Rylands Sharks went 3^rd in the Mark Norris Building Services Premier Division with an emphatic 42-0 victory over local rivals Latchford Albion.

Former Latchford favourite Kris Buckley opened the scoring when he intercepted a stray pass and raced 90 metres out-pacing the Latchford defence. Wez Lawton doubled the Rylands lead with a typical short range effort from dummy half and Leonard’s conversion put Rylands 10 to the good. Rylands increased their lead when good work from Man of the Match Mike Ward and Leonard creating space for Buckley to grab his second Leonard’s conversion gave the Sharks a 16-0 half time advantage.

Latchford started the second half strongly with Matt Taylor, Iain Fowler and Matty Patterson impressing, but it was Blackpool bound Chris Forster who scored next showing good footwork and pace to stroll over by the posts Leonard’s conversion gave Rylands a 22-0 advantage .

The Sharks then began to be more expansive in their attacking play and scored the try of the game when Craig Rigby put in a lovely short ball for Mike Ward to race over. Buckley grabbed his hat-trick backing up a Danny Shaw break and Chris Forster got his second courtesy of a penalty try when he was pulled back from touching down Leonard’s pinpoint kick the impressive Shaw rounded things off after good work from Jono Smith. Scott Davidson was outstanding for Rylands on his debut and he was well supported by Gary Hewitt and Phil Stevens as the Rylands forwards dominated their opponents.

Rylands Sharks: Carl Lloyd, Danny Hoyland, Neil Evans, Danny Shaw, Kris Buckley, Chris Forster, Peter Leonard, Gary Hewitt, Danny Forster, Phil Stevens, Jono Smith, Craig Rigby, Mike Ward, Wez Lawton, Mal Mason, Mark Forster and Scott Davidson.

Rylands Sharks 32 Golborne Parkside 20

Rylands Sharks progressed to the last eight of the Lancashire Cup with a 32-20 victory over Golborne Parkside. The visitors got the first score of the afternoon, this was cancelled out by Jono Smith’s first of three tries and Leonard’s boot put Rylands two infront.The next try and conversion gave Golborne a 10-6 advantage but another Smith try levelled the game at 10 each with 20 minutes played. Rylands began to play more expansively and were rewarded when the ball was passed one way then the other culminating with a try in the corner from Danny Hoyland, Leonard’s conversion gave Rylands a 16-10 lead.On the stroke of half time Mal Mason was sinbinned while Smith of Golborne was red carded after a fracas in centre field.

The reorganisation of the Rylands pack meant that veteran Mark Forster was pushed into the prop forward position, but it didn’t seem to bother him has he powered through the Golborne defensive line and outpaced the full back to the corner, Leonard’s touchline conversion gave The Sharks breathing space at 22-10. Golborne scored two tries in three minutes from the winger one converted brought them back to within two points at 22-20 with 12 minutes left on the clock. Golborne had the momentum but Rylands had a match winner in the shape of Jono Smith who burst through three would be tacklers to clinch the game. Danny Shaw put icing on the cake when he finished off a flowing move which included an audacious pass through the legs from Liam Walsh. Best for Rylands Jono Smith, Scot Davidson, Danny Shaw and Mike Ward.

Rylands Sharks: Carl Lloyd, Danny Hoyland, Neil Evans, Danny Shaw, Kris Buckley, Liam Walsh, Peter Leonard, Gary Hewitt, Danny Forster, Scot Davidson, Jono Smith, Phil Stevens, Mike Ward, Hayden James, Mal Mason, Mark Forster and Craig Rigby.

RYLANDS SHARKS 14 BARROW ISLAND 6

Rylands Sharks went joint top of the Mark Norris Building Services Premier Division after a lacklustre 14-6 home victory over Barrow Island. A try from Jono Smith on 8 minutes converted by Peter Leonard and the dismissal of Islanders second row Shaw on 15 minutes should of signalled an avalanche of points for the Sharks, but the dismissal seemed to galvanise the visitors who defended valiantly to repel the Rylands attacks and ultimately frustrate them.

With the scoreline still only 6-0 after 50 minutes of play it took a piece of quick thinking from Stand off Liam Walsh to open up the Cumbrian defence. Rylands were awarded a scrum on their own 20 metre line and when Walsh received the ball he kicked it straight down the middle of the field for speedster Kris Buckley to chase, he duly won the race for the ball and went over for a superb try, Leonard’s conversion gave Rylands a 12-0 advantage. Scot Davidson was sin binned for persistant foul play and Barrow took advantage to narrow the gap to 6 points, but a late Leonard penalty calmed the Rylands nerves and they claimed the points. Best for Rylands: Smith, Leonard, Mike Ward and Hayden James.

Rylands: Carl Lloyd, Hayden Gahgan, Neil Evans, Danny Shaw, Kris Buckley, Liam Walsh, Peter Leonard, Scot Davidson, Danny Forster, Phil Stevens, Jono Smith, Iain Ratcliffe, Mike Ward, Hayden James, Mal Mason, Mark Forster and Peter Harrigan.

Pilkingtons 26 Rylands Sharks 18

The Sharks bowed out of the Lancashire cup after a battling display where they were leading 12-8 at half time, through a tremendous well worked move which resulted in prop Phil Stevens crashing over converted by Peter Leonard, next on the score sheet was youngster Liam Walsh after a great off load from Kris Buckley again goaled by Leonard.
Rylands started the next half just as well with centre Danny Shaw going close, they were then camped on there own line for fifteen minutes through failed interception attempts and harsh refereeing decisions, Pilks finally broke the superb defence scoring three tries the last being very controversial where the ball was grounded clearly before the line. Rylands finished brightly when Buckley made a dash down the wing and passed to Carl Lloyd to score, again converted by Leonard.
Outstanding for Rylands was Stevens, Matt Taylor, Iain Ratcliffe and under 18 star Hayden James.

Rylands: Carl Lloyd, Danny Hoyland, Danny Shaw, Mark Forster, Kris Buckley, Liam Walsh, Pete Leonard, Phil Stevens, Hayden James, Scott Davidson, Jono Smith, Iain Ratcliffe, Matt Taylor, Mike Lee, Gaz Hewitt, Mark Robinson and Pete Harrigan.

Bank Quay Bulls 36 Rylands Sharks 10

The Sharks started brightly with wingman Kris Buckley going over after 4 minutes with Pete Leonard just failing with the conversion. Next with a mixture of dropped balls and defensive errors the Bulls were allowed to score 4 tries with out reply. A much better effort from Rylands in the 2nd half restricted the opposition to 2 further tries, Prop Scott Davidson then dove over under the sticks after a well worked move converted by Leonard. Jono Smith worked tirelessly throughout to take the man of the match award, closely followed by Andy Smith and Iain Ratcliffe.

Rylands: Carl Lloyd, Danny Hoyland, Neil Evans, Danny Shaw, Kris Buckley, Matt Taylor, Pete Leonard, Gaz Hewitt, Hayden James, Scott Davidson, Phil Stevens, Iain Ratcliffe, Jono Smith, Stuart Pirrie, Mark Robinson, Andy Smith & Paul Bagley.

Rylands Sharks 22 Golborne Parkside 12

Rylands Sharks defeated Golborne Parkside 22-12 at Shark Park despite being outplayed for 60 minutes of the game.

Golborne got the first score of the afternoon when a flowing move was finished off by Swinton and former Warrington star Craig Ashall, the conversion was missed but two further penalties were added to give Golborne a 10-0 lead. A break by Man of the Match Jono Smith was finished off superbly by Danny Hoyland and Leonard added the extras to get Rylands back in the game, but another penalty from the visitors gave them a 12-6 half time lead.

Injuries to key players Jono Smith, Matt Taylor and Danny Shaw disrupted the Rylands side but the boot of Leonard was in full working order and his pinpoint kick to the corner was seized upon by Stuart Pirrie to narrow the gap to two points with 17 minutes to play.

With Rylands in the ascendancy the forwards hammered the Golborne defence and were rewarded when Prop Andy Smith dove into a loose ball over the try line to give Rylands the lead for the first time, Leonards conversion made it 16-12 and within 2 minutes another Leonard kick was collected by Pirrie who went over for his second try of the afternoon again converted to give Rylands an unassailable 22-12 advantage as the Golborne side visibly deflated.

Best for Rylands were Jono Smith, Gaz Hewitt and Hayden James.

Rylands Sharks: Carl Lloyd, Stuart Pirrie, Neil Evans, Danny Shaw, Danny Hoyland, Matt Taylor, Peter Leonard, Gary Hewitt, Hayden James, Iain Ratcliffe, Scott Davidson, Jono Smith, Mike Ward, Kieron Naylor, Mark Robinson, Andy Smith, Tony Burns.

Blackbrook 6 v Rylands Sharks 16

The Sharks dominated the early exchanges and were rewarded with the first score of the afternoon to wingman Danny Hoyland after great centre play from Neil Evans. Blackbrook barely threatened the Rylands line and it was only a last ditch ankle tap on rampaging forward Matty Wilson that stopped Rylands doubling their lead before the half time break.

Blackbrook came out with renewed vigour in the second half helped by Rylands inability to keep hold of the ball and the home side scrambled a try which was converted to give them a 6-4 lead on the hour mark.

Rylands began to take control of possession and a superb 40 metre break from Man of the Match Jono Smith was gutbustingly supported by prop Gary Hewitt to finish off and regain the lead for the Sharks, Peter Leonard converted and Rylands led 10-6. Two minutes later it was all over as that man Smith crashed through three would be tacklers to clinch the game for Rylands and send them joint top of the table with Bank Quay and Simms Cross.

Rylands: Stuart Pirrie, Danny Hoyland, Neil Evans, Danny Shaw, Kieran Naylor, Hayden James, Peter Leonard, Gary Hewitt, Jono Smith, Iain Ratcliffe, Scot Davidson, Matt Taylor, Mike Ward, Mark Robinson, Matty Wilson, Phil Stevens, Andy Smith

Rylands Sharks 12 v Halton Simms Cross 20

Rylands Sharks pushed undefeated Halton Simms Cross all the way at Gorsey Lane and but for two controversial disallowed tries would have defeated the tabletoppers.

Simms Cross opened strongly and took a deserved 12-0 lead before Rylands introduced new signing Alan Redicliffe and it was his break and kick to the corner that looked to have opened Rylands account but the referee deemed that Carl Lloyd had touched the ball down on the dead ball line and the try was ruled out. The second half saw Rylands mount pressure on the Simms Cross line and Danny Shaw put in wingman Stuart Pirrie only for the referee to disallow the try again on the word of a spectator. This infuriated the Rylands players who were marched back down the pitch by three penalties culminating in Simms Cross taking a 14-0 advantage with a simple penalty goal.

Rylands came storming back into the game when centre Danny Shaw intercepted a pass on his own 20 metre line and showed a clean pair of heels to race the 80 metres to the line, Peter Leonards conversion brought Rylands to within 8 points but soon after poor tackling allowed Simms Cross to extend their advantage to 20-6. The Sharks never gave in and were rewarded for their endeavour when Jono Smith crashed over and Leeonards conversion gave a final score of 20-12. Rylands were best served by Matthew Taylor, Carl Lloyd and Mike Ward

Rylands Sharks: Carl Lloyd, Tony Byrne, Neil Evans, Danny Shaw, Stuart Pirrie, Hayden James, Peter Leonard, Gary Hewitt, Jono Smith, Iain Ratcliffe, Scot Davidson, Matthew Taylor, Mike Ward, Mark Robinson, Alan Redicliffe, Matty Wilson, Phil Stevens.

Rylands A 2008 - 09.

Rylands Sharks A 42 Leigh East B 38

Rylands second string recorded their first victory of the season in a point a minute try fest at

Gorsey Lane

. Star of the show was Billy Sheen who’s three tries and speed from dummy half was the difference between the sides there was other noteable performances from Liam Walsh, Hayden James and the returning Andy Smith.

Rylands: Jeff Robinson, Darren Crozier, Hayden Gahgen, Martin Williamson, Andy Ward, Billy Sheen, Liam Walsh, Ant Poole, Glyn Taylor, Mike Lee, Sam Brinksman, Daz Murray, Ian Ward, Hayden James, Gary Gannon, Glyn Haddrell and Andy Smith.

Milnrow & Newhey 48 Rylands Sharks A 14

Rylands travelled with only 14 players to the newly reformed Rochdale side Milnrow & Newhey in this division 6 encounter and were only trailing by 16 –8 after 30 minutes despite going down to 12 men through injuries.

Centre Chris Forrest scored Rylands try with Sam Brinksman converting and also adding a penalty goal .

But Rylands never gave in and tireless work from all the players was a credit to the club with Rylands man of the match prop forward Andy Smith scoring the final try of the game converted by Brinksman.

Ryands Sharks; Andy Ward, Darren Crozier, Tim Neal, Chris Forrest, Adam Poole, Ant Poole, Sam Brinksman, Andy Smith, Hayden Gahgan , Phil Leonard, Iain Ratcliffe, Pete Harrigan, Gary Gannon and Matt Devine.

Wigan Bulldogs 30 Rylands Sharks 33

A lacklustre display from a strong Sharks 'A' team, that on paper should have won more comfortably. Tries from Daz Crozier, Mike Lee and Sam Brinksman kept Rylands only four points behind by half time. A much improved 2nd half with tries by Martin Williamson, Daz Murray and Craig Rigby all converted by Brinksman and a Ian Ward drop goal won the game for Rylands. Best were Ian Ward, Andy Smith, Glyn Taylor, Andy Ward, Sam Brinksman and Mike Lee.

Rylands Sharks: Jeff Robinson, Andy Ward, Craig Rigby, Chris Forrest, Darren Crozier, Anthony Poole, Ian Ward, Andy Smith, Glyn Taylor, Simon Walter, Mike Lee, Ned Froggett, Sam Brinksman.
Subs:-Martin Williamson, Gary Gannon, Darren Murray and Darren Barber.

Folly Lane A 21 Rylands A 12

A fantastic effort from all concerned in a game the Sharks should have won, and maybe would have but for some bizarre refereeing decisions resulting in a 1st half count of 20-1 to the opposition!!

The score at the break being only 14 nil down was a testament to the Sharks defence. The one man vendetta continued, but the lads showed excellent composure and character to take the 2nd half 12-7, tries by debutant Kieran Naylor and Daz Barber's first for Rylands both converted by Sam Brinksman. Other excellent debuts were enjoyed by Ash Francis, Phil Farrington and Dave Mahr, with scrum half Ian Ward taking the man of the match award, closely followed by Andy (80 Mins) Smith, Andy Ward, Chris Forrest, Paul Bagley, the evergreen Jeff Robinson and Naylor.

With the quality of players in this side at the moment we will bounce back and hopefully when we do "Click" we'll give someone a dammed good thrashing!!
Keep up the good effort lads.

Rylands A: Jeff Robinson, Andy Ward, Chris Forrest, Craig Rigby, Ash Francis, Ant Poole, Ian Ward, Andy Smith, Martin Williamson, Mal Mason, Daz Barber, Paul Bagley, Kieran Naylor, Sam Brinksman, Phil Farrington, Dave Maher and Gaz Gannon.

Rylands Sharks A 48 Rochdale Cobras 12

The Sharks dominant pack paved the way for an impressive win against third placed Cobras, tries were scored by loose forward Craig Rigby 2, Darren Barber, Kieran Naylor, Hayden Gahgen, Mal Mason, Andy Ward and Mike Lee, with scrum half Liam Walsh converting 7 from 8 attemps. Outstanding for Rylands were Ian Ward, Walsh and the evergreen Jeff Robinson.

Rylands: Jeff Robinson, Andy Ward, Hayden Gahgen, Kieran Naylor, Chris Forrest, Anthony Poole, Liam Walsh, Mal Mason, Ian Ward, Mike Lee, Darren Barber, Darren Murray, Craig Rigby. Subs: Darren Crozier, Phil Leonard, Phil Farrington and Dave Maher.

Blackpool Scorpions A 34 Rylands Sharks A 22

Travelling with a bare 13 players the Sharks coped well untill the 17th minute when the Scorpions crossed for there first try. Rylands replied straight from the kick off with a Peter Harrigan try converted by Liam Walsh but three further tries and conversions gave Blackpool a 24-6 interval lead.

A try from Jeff Robinson on the 50th min gave the visitors some hope but slack tackling saw Blackpool run in two further tries plus a penalty to put them 34-12 up. Rylands never gave up however and were rewarded with tries by Hayden Gahgen and a second from Harrigan after a superb off load from Mal Mason. Best for Rylands were Harrigan, Mason, Ant Poole and Dave Maher.

Rylands: Jeff Robinson, Andy Ward, Hayden Gahgen, Gaz Mellor, Darren Crozier, Anthony Poole, Liam Walsh, Dave Maher, Martin Williamson, Mal Mason, Gary Gannon, Pete Harrigan, Craig Rigby.

Rylands 2007-2008

Rylands Sharks 18 v Bank Quay Bulls 46

A fiercely contested local derby saw Bank Quay defeated Rylands by 46-18 but the game was marred by what looked like a serious injury to Mark Martin and the sending off of BARLA player of the year Craig Millington for what can only be described as thuggary as he attacked Danny Hoyland with the knee for no reason. (6 matches minimum or NWC will have some explaining to do)
The game itself was explosive from the start as Bank Quay scored straight from the kick off only to be pegged back by a Carl Lloyd try within the opening 5 minutes. 3 tries and 1 conversion to Bank Quay saw them stretch into a 20-4 lead before a Mark Martin try and Peter Leonard conversion for The Sharks gave a 20-10 half time scoreline.
The opening minute of the 2nd half saw the injury to Mark Martin and play held up for 30 minutes. On the resumption Bank Quay seemed overly pumped up and Millington saw Red for his attack to the head of Hoyland who was unable to resume. Further injuries to Danny Gregory, Mike Ward, Ian Ward and Anthony Poole saw Rylands depleted in the final quarter and not surprisingly Bank Quay ran away with the game.
Rylands did manage to score 2 further tries through Jamie and Neil Evans but the size of the Quay forwards took their toll on the overworked Rylands defence who were out on their feet at the final whistle.

Rylands Sharks 18 v Wigan St Cuthberts 12

Rylands Sharks got their first win of the season against newly promoted Wigan St Cuthberts (WSC) with a hard fought 18-12 victory.
On 10 minutes good work at the scrum base by Smith and Leonard created space for winger Jamie Evans to go in unopposed at the corner. They held this lead to the half hour mark when WSC scored a converted try to lead 6-4. Both defences were tremendous and there were no further scores in the half.
Six minutes into the second half a break from Jonno Smith was supported by centre Mike Ward to give Rylands a narrow 8-6 lead. It wasn?t long before the lead was increased, a bomb from scrum half Peter Leonard caused confusion in the WSC defence and ?Tosh? Thurston pounced to score, Leonard added the extras and The Sharks had opened up a 14-6 lead.
On 65 minutes a solo effort from Jonno Smith stretched The Sharks lead to 12 points, but he then blotted his copy book 2 minutes later by kicking the ball away and getting 10 mins in the bin and within minutes WSC were back within 6 points with a converted try. The 12 men of Rylands defended valiantly with full back Carl Lloyd pulling off some amazing last ditch tackles to preserve the Rylands lead. Best for Rylands Lloyd, Leonard and Thurston.
Rylands: Carl Lloyd, Jamie Evans Mike Ward, Mark Forster, Adam Poole, Neil Evans, Peter Leonard, Simon Walter, Paul Thurston, Gary Hewitt, Phil Stevens, Anthony Poole, Jonno Smith, Peter Harrigan, Mike Lee, Jimmy Harrison, Chris Forrest.

Bold Miners 18 v Rylands Sharks 24

A superb team effort from Rylands saw them overcome a dogged Bold Miners by 24-18. Rylands were dominant in the opening exchanges and scored the first try after 5 minutes from full back Carl Lloyd. Further tries were ran in by Prop Paul Bagley after good work from Kris Buckley, and Centre Neil Evans, Chris Forster converted one to give The Sharks a 14-0 half time advantage. Playing up the slope in the second half Rylands continued to impress going forward and added another try from second rower Paul Thurston to extend the Sharks lead to 18-0.
Rylands took their foot off the pedal and allowed their hosts to score two unconverted tries, but Jonno Smith sealed the game for Rylands with a typical powerful burst through the Bold defence to score under the posts, Forster converted and Rylands led 24-8. Two late tries from Bold, one from former Rylands favourite Andy Pucill made the game look closer than the scoreline suggests, as Rylands held on for a comfortable victory.
Best for Rylands Neil Evans, Carl Lloyd, Peter Leonard, and Paul Thurston.

Ashton Bears 20 - 18 Rylands Sharks

Rylands Started off strongly when Jono Smith broke the line to send Ian Ratcliffe under the posts with Chris Forster converting. Several opportunities were wasted when the Sharks failed to take there chances, which would have led to certain tries. Rylands scored again when Smith crashed over out wide with Forster missing a difficult kick. The game then became an error- ridden affair with both sides making mistakes, Ste Fisher went through three would be tacklers to score in the corner to tie the scores, with Forster again failing to convert. The game then was on a knife edge with both teams giving nothing away. The deadlock was finally broken when Fisher again went over after a fine scrum move with the conversion sailing wide. Ashton were awarded a controversial penalty in the dying minutes to score under the sticks, with the kick sealing the win.
Best for Rylands:-Mike Ward, Phil Stevens, Jono Smith & Danny Gregory.

Rylands:-Carl Lloyd, Mike Ward, Neil Evans, Ste Fisher, Jamie Evans, Chris Forster, Pete Leonard, Mike Lee, Ian Ward, Phil Stevens, Paul Thurston, Ian Ratcliffe, Jono Smith, Danny Gregory, Jimmy Harrison, Kris Buckley & Chris Forrest

Rylands Sharks 82 Orrell St James 0

Half backs Peter Leonard and Chris Forster were at the heart of this 14 try romp for the Sharks against a valiant Orrell side. Rylands were ruthless from the first whistle to the last. Leonard opened the scoring courtesy of a Jonno Smith pass in the 4th minute and it wasn’t long before Smith got in on the scoring act himself with a quick fire brace before Mike Lee, Danny Gregory, Gaz Hewitt and Jamie Evans added further first half tries with Leonard adding 6 conversions to give Rylands a commanding 40-0 half time lead.

Rylands Sharks began the second half in the same vein playing some enterprising attacking rugby with Jimmy Harrison and Chris Forster grabbing braces and Danny Gregory completing his hat-trick with some excellent support play, before Mark Forster completed the scoring in the final minute. Leonard was faultless with the boot converting all seven second half tries.

Rylands Sharks: Carl Lloyd, Mike Ward, Neil Evans, Mark Forster, Jamie Evans, Chris Forster, Peter Leonard, Mike Lee, Danny Gregory, Simon Walter, Paul Thurston, Gaz Hewitt, Jonno Smith, Ian Ward, Chris Forrest, Paul Bagley, Jimmy Harrison.

Rylands Sharks 9 v Blackbrook 30

A depleted Rylands side missing 4 key players gave a gutsy display against title chasing Blackbrook. A good opening ten minutes from the visitors saw Brook take an early 10-0 lead. Rylands began to complete their sets and were rewarded with a try from Rochdale bound Chris Forster converted by Peter Leonard to narrow the gap to 4 points.
Rylands continued with the upper hand and were camped in the Brook 20 for long spells, but resolute and professional defending meant all Rylands had to show for their domination was a Peter Leonard penalty and a Chris Forster drop goal to give a 9-10 scoreline. Two penalties relieved the pressure on the visitors line, and they took full advantage to score a converted try just on the half time whistle to give a 9-16 lead to Brook.
The second half saw the referee punish Rylands with some debatable decisions resulting in Rylands not touching the ball for 10 minutes, Brook took advantage to score two tries, one converted to give a 9-26 scoreline and effectively kill off the game. The Sharks continued to press forward with little reward forcing the passes but the scrambling
Brook defence held firm and their resilience was rewarded with the final score of the afternoon to give a 9-30 victory. Best for Rylands
Danny Gregory, Jamie Evans, Jono Smith and Paul Bagley.

Rylands Sharks 25 v Pilkingtons Recs 26

In a thrilling game at Shark Park, Rylands snatched defeat from the jaws of victory against highflying Pilkingtons. An opening 39 minutes of Rylands domination saw them take an 18-0 lead with three superb tries. The first was created and finished by Chris Forster, his chip over the defence was collected by flying winger Jamie Evans who drew
the full back and fed the supporting Forster to go in unopposed, Peter Leonard added the extras and The Sharks led 6-0. This was quickly doubled with a Jono Smith try who powered through two defenders from a Forster inside pass and Leonard again added the extras for a 12-0 lead. The third try was tremendous, under pressure in their own 20 Rylands scrum half Leonard put over a kick that was collected by centre Neil Evans who beat two men before offloading to the supporting Forster who outpaced the defence from 50 metres to score, Leonards boot ensured The Sharks led 18-0 with only 30 minutes on the clock. Rylands then got a little over confident trying to score on every set and were punished on the stroke of half time when Pilks were gifted possession and they took full advantage to score a converted try and drag themselves into the contest at 18-6.
The visitors were buoyed by the score just before half time and within 20 minutes of the second half they were level at 18-18 after scoring two converted tries. Forster nudged Rylands in the lead with a 1 pointer before Pilks were awarded a penalty to lead 19-20. With 8 minutes remaining Pilks scored a converted try to stretch their lead to 7, but within a minute Rylands were back to within a point when Ste Fisher burst through the Pilks defence and Leonard landed the touchline conversion to set up a gripping finale. The Sharks continued to press, but the resolute Pilks defence held on to take the spoils.

Best for Rylands Forster, Leonard, Jamie Evans, Paul Thurston and Carl Lloyd.

Barrow Island 0 v Rylands Sharks 18

Rylands long trip to Cumbria was rewarded with a fine win over Barrow Island. In a game dominated by both defences, it was Rylands who had the keys to unlock the game with the creative skills of Peter Leonard and Danny Gregory. It was Gregory’s intelligent kick on 20 minutes that looked to have opened the scoring, but recipient Chris Forster was deemed to be offside, this was only a temporary reprieve for the Islanders as moments later Leonard created room for wingman Kris Buckley to go over unopposed to give The Sharks a 4-0 advantage. That looked like how it was going to stay as half time approached, but the quick thinking Gregory spotted a gap in the Barrow defence and he shot through from dummy half to score, Leonard added the extras and Rylands led 10-0 at the break.
Barrow threw everything at Rylands at the start of the second half, but they were unable to penetrate with Tosh Thurston, Mike Lee and Neil Evans immense in their defence. The game was sealed on 65 minutes when Leonard found Jono Smith who ignored a three man overlap threw a dummy and ran over the full back to score his 7th try of the season; Leonards conversion made it 16-0. Barrow’s frustration at not being able to break down the Rylands defence saw them resort to an ill disciplined end to the game and Leon booted over a late penalty to complete the scoring.

Halton Simms Cross 38 v Rylands Sharks 6

Rylands travelled to Champions Simms Cross missing 4 key players, yet dominated the opening 20 minutes culminating in a well worked try for Mike Ward converted by Peter Leonard. A superb 60 metre break from Jamie Evans nearly doubled the lead but he was hauled down just short of the line and the chance was gone. Simms Cross responded with their usual gusto scoring three converted tries to give them an 18-6 half time lead. With a strong wind at their backs Rylands fancied their chances of causing an upset, but Simms Cross repelled wave after wave of Rylands attacks and on 60 minutes a penalty goal extended their lead to 14. Injuries to Jono Smith and Chris Forrest thwarted The Sharks chances and Simms Cross took full advantage in the final quarter, running in three converted tries to give a final scoreline of 38-6.

Blackbrook 28 v Rylands Sharks 8

Rylands had the better of the early exchanges and took a deserved lead with a Peter Leonard penalty. Rylands inability to hold the ball on a cold blustery day cost them dearly, as they turned over possession to their hosts on ten occasions in their own half and Brook punished them to lead 16-2. Rylands responded when a reverse kick from Leonard found Chris Forster who touched down by the side of the posts, Leonard’s conversion narrowed the gap to 8, but on the stroke of half time Brook chanced their arm offloading in the tackle resulting in a fortunate try
which was converted to give them a 22-8 half time lead.

Rylands were the dominant side in the second period forcing Brook to defend their line for most of the half, but the final pass went to ground on numerous occasions to frustrate the Rylands faithful. A last minute try from Blackbrook sealed there win. There were outstanding performances from Jono Smith, Paul Thurston and Phil Stevens in the forwards while Mike Ward and Carl Lloyd were the pick in the backs.

Rylands Sharks 18 v Brighouse Rangers 26

Rylands were beaten by National Conference Div2 outfit Brighouse Rangers in The Preliminary Round of the BARLA National Cup. After a bright start from the visitors Rylands found themselves 6-0 down and then gifted Brighouse two further tries when the ball went to ground and the players stopped expecting a whistle only for the referee to allow play on resulting in The Sharks being 14-0 down. Good passing from the back division saw Mike Ward put Kris Buckley over in the corner, Peter Leonard added the conversion and at 14-6 Rylands were back in the game. Shortly after half time though Brighouse scored another try to lead 18-6 and Rylands were chasing the game, a 60 metre break from Jono Smith was finished off by Buckley and Leonard's conversion reduced the arrears to 6. Brighouse were not for lying though and extended their lead to 24-12 with a converted try, Rylands scored again when Tosh Thurston went over and Leonard?s boot set up a tense final 10 minutes but the Brighouse defence held firm and two late drop goals sealed their win. Best for Rylands was the outstanding Carl Lloyd.

Rylands Sharks 38 v Barrow Island 10

Rylands completed a league double over Barrow Island, but a lacklustre opening half gave the visitors hope. Craig Rigby opened the scoring for Rylands latching on to a pinpoint kick from Peter Leonard to score in the corner Leonard added the extras and Rylands led 6-0. Barrow responded with an unconverted try before a charge down from Chris Forster saw him streak 30 metres unopposed, Leonard’s boot made it 12-4. A converted try from the visitors reduced the gap to two, but either side of half time two typical blockbusting tries from Man of the Match Jono Smith one converted gave Rylands a commanding 22-10 advantage. The first one created by Forster and the second from Leonard as the half backs ran amok behind a dominant pack. On 50 minutes another pinpoint Leonard kick was seized on by Carl Lloyd and the successful touchline conversion gave The Sharks much needed breathing space. Leonard continued to impress and his short pass to centre Neil Evans split the Cumbrian defence for another converted try. Carl Lloyd completed the scoring for Rylands, supporting a break from Chris Forster to give Rylands a confidence boosting victory. Best for Rylands Smith, Leonard and prop Simon Walter.

Bold Miners 22 v Rylands Sharks 16

Rylands crashed out of the NWC Premier Cup at the first hurdle after a lacklustre display at Bold Miners. Peter Leonard gave Rylands a 4 point lead converting two early penalties, but they found themselves 6-4 down at the break after Bold had scored a converted try.

The second half saw Bold extend their lead to 14-4 before a Carl Lloyd try converted by Leonard narrowed the gap to 6. Rylands were in the ascendancy and looked like they would level the scores, but a breakaway try from the home side put pay to Rylands chances. Despite a late effort from Phil Stevens his first for two seasons, Rylands could not force the game into extra time as Bold defended valiantly.

Best for Rylands, Leonard, Neil Evans and Jamie Evans.

Rylands Sharks 12 v Bold Miners 7

In a rough and tough Premier Division clash Rylands Sharks came out on top against a Bold Miners side fighting for their Premier Division lives. Bold took an early 7-0 lead as Rylands struggled to complete a set of six tackles, but on the stroke of half time Mike Ward ran onto a short pass from stand off Neil Evans to go over to the right of the posts,

Leonard’s conversion gave a 6-7 half time scoreline.

The second half was much like the first with both defences dominant. Bold looked to have extended their lead on two occasions but tremendous cover defence from Jamie Evans prevented two certain tries and Rylands took full advantage. Peter Leonard ran across the line looking for runners and Phil Stevens obliged cutting a great line through the Bold defence to go over by the posts, Leonard again added the extras and Rylands led for the first time in the game with only 5 minutes remaining. Bold looked to respond but the Rylands defence held firm to claim the points. Jono Smith took another Man of the Match award but there were fine performances from Mike Ward, Neil and Jamie Evans and the hard working Stevens.

Pilkingtons Recs 44 Rylands Sharks 24

A devastating opening 20 minutes burst from the home side saw them open up an early 18-0 lead, but Rylands dug deep and responded with a Jamie Evans try converted by Peter Leonard to narrow the deficit to 12. Rylands were in the ascendancy but on the stroke of half time a loose ball was collected by Pilks and they went the length of the field to score a converted try and give them a 24-6 half time lead.

With a strong wind behind them Rylands dominated proceedings early in the second half and they were rewarded with a try from Neil Evans after a great offload from Mark Forster, Leonard’s conversion was good and moments later Rylands were right back in the game. A scrum was formed on Rylands own 20 metre line and Leonard kicked the ball straight from the scrum for Kris Buckley to outpace the Pilks defence to score an 80 metre try Leonard’s conversion brought Rylands to within 6 points, but that was as close as they got as decisions went against the Sharks allowing Pilks to get out of jail. Kris Buckley got his second try of the afternoon again after good work by Forster but it was too little too late as Pilks kept the pressure on Bank Quay at the top of the Table. Best for Rylands Phil Stevens, Neil Evans, Jamie Evans and the evergreen Forster.

Rylands Sharks 26 Golborne Parkside 22

A nine try thriller at Gorsey Lane saw Rylands edge home against a determined Golborne side. An early Golborne try was countered by a Neil Evans try from a pinpoint Peter Leonard kick which he converted before Golborne re-took the lead with three tries, one converted to give them an 18-6 lead. Before half time Rylands had narrowed the gap to 6 with a Phil Stevens try and shortly after the break the astute kicking of Leonard created another try for Carl Lloyd, Leonard converted both tries then added two drop goals to give The Sharks a two point advantage entering the final quarter. Mike Ward and Jamie Evans were Instrumental in Rylands revival and it wasn't long before they extended the lead when Stevens powered in for his second try of the afternoon again converted by the boot of Leonard and Rylands led 26-18 with 15 Minutes remaining. Golborne threw everything at Rylands in a bid to win the game but the Rylands defence held strong for a deserved victory.

Rylands Sharks 26 v Halton Simms Cross 30

Rylands Sharks pushed Halton Simms Cross all the way at a packed Gorsey Lane, but just failed to repeat last sasons success over the Champions. Trailing 14-4 at half time with only a Peter Leonard try to show for there efforts, Rylands came out with desire and intent in the second half and within six minutes they were level with tries from Jamie Evans an 80 metre effort and Mike Ward one converted by Leonard. Simmies edged in front with a penalty before Rylands were awarded a penalty try when Jamie Evans was obstructed over the try line, Leonard’s conversion gave The Sharks a 20-16 advantage, but Champions for the last four seasons Simms Cross are not for giving up their title without a fight and they responded with 14 unanswered points to give them a 30- 20 lead. A typical Jono Smith try bursting through three would be tacklers narrowed the gap to four, but Simmies held on to take the spoils in a pulsating game.

Best for Rylands;Smith, Leonard, Evans and a strong performance off the bench from Jimmy Harrison

Golborne Parkside 18 v Rylands Sharks 8

Playing up the slope and into a strong wind Rylands started brightly and were rewarded with a try in the corner for Carl Lloyd after a pinpoint kick from Peter Leonard. Golborne capitalised with the Conditions in their favour scoring three converted tries before half time to give them an 18-4 advantage.

Early in the second half Rylands broke down the Golborne defence when Mike Ward put Chris Forrest through a huge gap but as he crossed the line and tried to improve the angle for the conversion the ball was knocked from his grasp and the chance was gone. Golborne were unable to break out of their own half with Simon Walter, Iain Ratcliffe and Peter Harrigan immense in defence for The Sharks. On 60 minutes Rylands finally broke down the stubborn Parkside defence when Leonard fed the impressive Neil Evans to crash over wide out, again the conversion was missed and Rylands trailed by 10 points entering the final quarter. For all their endeavour, territory and possession Rylands could not unlock the Golborne defence again and Rylands came away empty handed but their depleted side missing 8 first team regulars gave a tremendous display.

Wigan St Cuthberts 20 Rylands Sharks 10

Rylands finished the season, unfortunately with a defeat, but not through lack of effort. Many thanks to the lads who travelled, especially the reserve team lads who stepped up admirably.The Sharks started off like a house on fire, quickly going two tries up in the first fifteen minutes, with Peter Leonard following up his own kick to score a great try and conversion. During this period the Rylands team put in some crunching tackles to stiffle the Cuthberts attack, a good dummy half run from Glyn Taylor, enabled Leonard to put up a monsterous bomb with caused mayhem near the try line, with wingman Jamie Evans diving on the loose ball, Leonard just missed with a difficult attempt. After a superb defensive effort in the first half, the Sharks lost their way after the break and with being constantly penalised, the opposition scored to converted trys against a tied defence, overall a huge effort from the lads, with Phil Stevens, Carl Lloyd and Mike Ward outstanding, closely followed by Iain Ratcliffe, Leonard, Evans, Poole and Neil Evans, this was not a day for individual praise, with the full seventeen all showing desire and committment.
Rylands:Carl Lloyd, Chris Forrest, Anthony Poole, Kris Buckley, Jamie Evans, Neil Evans, Pete Leonard, Simon Walter, Glyn Taylor, Pete Harrigan, Iain Ratcliffe, Phil Stevens, Mike Ward, Martin Williamson, Craig Rigby, Glyn Haddrell and Sam Brinksman.

Rylands A 2007 - 2008

RYLANDS SHARKS A 44 v LATCHFORD ALBION A 16

Influential half backs Anthony Poole and Danny Forster were key to this Rylands success against local rivals Latchford Albion. They combined to set up the first try of the game for Centre Craig
Rigby before Latchford responded to level the scores. Rylands took control adding 4 tries in quick succession from Anthony Poole 2 Jimmy Harrison and Mark Martin with Sam Brinksman faultless with the boot to give Rylands a 30-6 advantage. A try either side of half time from Latchford reduced the deficit to 30-16 Showing greater composure Rylands dominated the rest of the game adding three further tries from Mark Martin and a Craig Rigby brace to complete his hat-trick one converted by Brinksman to give a 44-16 final scoreline.
Best for Rylands were Poole, Rigby and Forster in the backs while the forwards of Harrison, Hoyland and Martin were a handful for the overworked Latchford defence.

Rylands Sharks A 10 - 14 Widnes Moorfield A

A lacklustre opening half saw Rylands trail by 10 points to nil. Unable to hold the ball they turned over possession far too frequently and were punished by their visitors. The second half saw a little improvement after Moorfield had extended their lead to 12 with a penalty, Rylands finally got on the score sheet with a Jay Murray try and this was soon followed up by a Craig Rigby try converted by Sam Brinksman to narrow the gap to 2. Despite the efforts of Anthony Poole, Mark Martin and Murray it was a bridge too far with a late Moorfield penalty sealing their win.

Rylands Sharks A 24 v Irlam Hornets 22

Outstanding defence in the last 15 minutes earned Rylands a tremendous victory, inflicting only the 2nd defeat of the season on Irlam Hornets. First half tries from Jason Murray, Danny Hoyland and Jimmy Harrison all converted by Sam Brinksman gave Rylands an 18-6 half time advantage. The second half saw stand off Craig Rigby ghost through the Irlam defence and Brinksman’s conversion gave Rylands a comfortable 24- 6 lead. Irlam then launched their comeback scoring two quick converted tries to narrow the gap to 6. With 20 minutes remaining Rylands knocked on, but Irlam picked up the loose ball and raced away to score a breakaway try, the conversion was missed and Rylands led by 2. Rylands defended valiantly in the final 15 minutes to take the two points in a pulsating game. Great debut performances from Craig Holden and Andy Ward.

Shevington Sharks A 30 Rylands Sharks A 14

A spate of injuries in the second half proved too much for Rylands second string at Shevington. Rylands opened the scoring when Mark Martin powered over in the left corner, 16 year old Sam Brinksman landed a superb touchline conversion and soon after a penalty to give Rylands an 8-0 lead. Shevington levelled with two unconverted tries before Martin grabbed his second chasing a Craig Rigby grubber kick to the corner and Brinksman again booted over the conversion from the touchline. On the stroke of half time the hosts scored another try to give Rylands a narrow 14-12 advantage. Despite the efforts of Glyn Haddrell, Jeff Robinson, Danny Hoyland and Mark Martin, Shevington took control in the final quarter running in four tries to defeat a courageous Rylands side.

Irlam Hornets 44 v Rylands Sharks A 18

A courageous display from a youthful Rylands squad brought little reward at Irlam Hornets. Irlam opened the scoring with a converted try before a Danny Hoyland try and Sam Brinksman conversion levelled matters. A costly sin binning mid way through the first half saw Irlam
take advantage with 2 converted tries to give a 18-6 half time lead. A Jeff Robinson opportunist try early in the second half gave Rylands hope, but injuries and only a two man substitute bench thwarted Rylands hopes as Irlams pack took control scoring 5 tries before Terence Evans
scored his first try for Rylands latching onto a Brinksman cross field kick. Brinksmans conversion completed the scoring. Encouraging debuts from Chris Taylor and Andy Murray

Haydock A 36 v Rylands Sharks A 8

Rylands A gave unbeaten league leaders Haydock an early fright when Anthony Poole went over for a try, but with only 14 players Rylands were always going to struggle, Rylands gave a tenacious display with Glyn Haddrell and Craig Rigby leading from the front, the sin binning of Sam Brinksman did not help as Haydock got on top in the second half, but Rylands were rewarded for their efforts with the final try of the afternoon from Mark Martin

Rylands Sharks A 18 v Wigan St Cuthberts A 34

A four try blast from Man of the Match Mark Martin was not enough for Rylands to earn the points against Wigan St Cuthberts. A depleted Rylands squad gave their all but with no substitutes they tired in the final quarter. Martin scored a first half hat-trick inspired by Anthony Poole and Danny Hoyland, but two converted tries from the visitors kept it locked 12-12 at the interval. After WSG regained the lead 18-12 with a converted try, Rylands were back on level terms when Martin reacted quickest to a Sam Brinksman grubber which he converted to level the scores at 18 each with 20 minutes remaining but that was as close as Rylands got as they ran of steam and Cuthberts ran in four tries to clinch the game. Best for Rylands Martin, Hayden James and Peter Harrigan

Wigan St Cuthberts A 22 v Rylands Sharks A 16

Rylands had to start the game with 9 players when one of the cars got lost en-route to Wigan and were 8-0 down before they arrived. Once Rylands had a full compliment they were outstanding taking a 10-8 half time lead with tries from Mark Martin and Joel Harrigan one converted by Martin. The second half was too much for the overworked Rylands defence as fatigue took its toll in the heavy conditions but a try from hooker Jeff Robinson converted by Martin brought Rylands to within a converted try of their hosts, but it was not enough as time ran out after a tremendous effort.

Carlsberg-Tetley Alliance Cup Final

Rylands Sharks A 54 v Latchford Albion A 2

A strong Rylands side containing 7 players with 1st team experience totally overwhelmed a youthful Latchford Albion side to lift the Carlsberg-Tetley Alliance Cup at a wet and windy Gorsey Lane. Latchford took an early lead when Ben Fawcett booted over an early penalty in the fifth minute, but from then on it was all Rylands. Mark Forster went in for the first of Rylands 11 tries courtesy of a short pass from son Chris, Sam Brinksman landed the touchline conversion and it wasn?t long before Gary Hewitt extended the lead after good work from Jimmy Harrison. Mark Forster got his second before Chris Forster got a try after Captain Glyn Haddrell had chipped over the advancing Latchford defence. Hayden James and Man of the Match Danny Shaw finished off slick handling moves both converted by Chris Forster to give Rylands a 30-2 half time lead.
Sam Brinksman got a try 5 minutes into the second half after Rochdale bound Chris Forster and Danny Shaw had created space for the wingman to go over unopposed, and it wasn?t long before Danny Forster got in on the scoring act collecting a cross field kick from Chris who added both conversions and Rylands led 42-2 with over 30 minutes to play. Latchford never gave up though with former Warrington Wolves player Gary Tees, Mal Mason and Dave Levenston leading from the front, but it was Rylands who finished the stronger with Jimmy Harrison and Danny Forster adding converted tries in the ever deteriating conditions.

Rylands Sharks A 38 v Shevington Sharks A 6

Rylands Sharks A ran in 7 tries against Shevington in this NWC Division 6 encounter at Gorsey Lane. Carl Lloyd 3, Jamie Evans 2 one of which was a spectacular 80 metre effort Neil Evans 1 and Anthony Poole 1 with Peter Leonard landing 5 goals being the points scorers, but it was the hard work of the forwards which laid the foundation with Tony Whyment, Tim Neal, Craig Rigby and Danny Forster outstanding in a tremendous team effort. There was also an encouraging debut from under 18s starlet Lewis Thursfield son of former Warrington Wolves player John Thursfield.

Wigan St Cuthberts A 12 v Rylands Sharks A 13

Rylands Sharks second team completed their league programme with a hard fought win at Wigan. Rylands opened the scoring on 20 minutes when substitute Phil Stevens latched onto a short ball from Robinson to score with his first touch, Leonards conversion gave Rylands a 6 point lead, but the home side responded before half time with an unconverted try to give a 6-4 scoreline.

Cuthberts took the initiative in the second period scoring two tries to give them a 12-6 advantage but Rylands responded with Robinson barging over from close range and Leonards conversion tied the scores. On the next set Rylands went 80 metres and Leonard coolly knocked over a drop goal to give Rylands a slender 1 point lead with 8 minutes remaining. Rylands defence held firm in the closing stages to claim the points with Robinson, Tim Neil, Craig Rigby and Sam Brinksman the pick of an excellent team effort.

Rylands 2006 - 07.

Rylands 19 v 6 Haydock.

Rylands got their Premier Division campaign off to a flying start with a hard earned win against.
After a scrappy opening 20, Rylands began to play some excellent rugby and were rewarded with a try from Andy Pucill converted by Chris Forster. Four penalties gave Haydock a foothold in the Rylands half for the first time after 30 minutes play and duly levelled the scores with a converted try.
The second half saw Rylands stamp their authority on the game and a superb pass by Peter Leonard put Paul Clayton through a hole in the Haydock defence. To give Rylands a 10-6 lead, Chris Forster missed the conversion but added a penalty shortly after to extend the Rylands lead to 6.
A Haydock breakaway briefly threatened the Rylands line but they stood firm and sealed the game on 74 mnutes when Leornard knocked over a drop goal to give them an unassailable 13 -6 advantage. Carl Lloyd provided the icing on the cake in the final minute with a good try after some slick passing and Forster landed his third kick of the afternoon from the touchline to give a final score of 19-6.
Best performance for Rylands Tosh Thurston, Jono Smith, Phil Stevens and Chris Forster.

Pilkingtons Recs 34 v 24 Rylands.

Chris Forster gave Rylands a flying start at Pilkingtons with a 50 metre interception try which he converted to give Rylands an early 6 point advantage. Pilks responded strongly scoring 4 first half tries to give them a 22-6 half time lead. Rylands were not out of the game though and looked the better side for most of the opening 40 but some strange refereeing decisions and the bounce of
the ball never went their way. It looked bleak when Pilks stretched their lead to 28-6 early in the second half but Rylands showed some fighting spirit with Paul Flannery and Mark Forster both scoring tries courtesy of Chris Forster passes, he converted one of the tries to give a 28-16 scoreline midway through the second half. Rylands got within 8 points when Carl Lloyd went over in the corner, but a mistake from the kick off resulted in Pilks scoring the game clinching try. Rylands still had time to notch another score from Carl Lloyd but time ran out for a battling Rylands side as they went down 34-24. Best for Rylands Captain Ian Ward, Neil Evans and Carl Lloyd.

Barrow Island 20 v 10 Rylands

Rylands fought hard at Barrow but for all their endeavour they came away with nothing as the Islanders picked up their first win of the season. Trailing 14-4 at half time after two converted tries and a penalty to Barrow against a solitary Jonno Smith try for Rylands, they turned round in the second half with the assistance of the sloping pitch and were camped inside the Barrow
20 for long periods but could not penetrate the defensive line until the 67th minute when Chris Forster utilised his dummy runners to go over unopposed, his conversion narrowed the gap to 4 points and Rylands were in the ascendancy. The last 13 minutes was all Rylands but they could not get the score that their play richly deserved and after giving away two quick penalties Barrow
went the length of the field with BARLA international full back Matthew Jefferson clinching the game with a last minute try. Best for Rylands, Phil Stevens, Jonno Smith, Anthony Poole and Peter Leonard.

BARLA LANCASHIRE CUP 1ST ROUND
Rylands 26 v 10 Shevington.

Rylands progressed to the 2nd round of the Lancashire Cup with a dominant display over their Wigan opponents. Chris Forster amassed 18 points as Rylands started the game at a blistering pace. It was Forster who started the ball rolling with a solo effort on 9 minutes and 3 minutes later he added a second after good work from Andy Pucill, Forster converted and Rylands led 10-0.
Shevington responded after Rylands were penalised twice narrowing the gap to 4 with a converted try. Peter Leonard went over for Rylands on the half hour mark using his weight to burrow over from dummy half and Rylands led 14-6 at the break.
Early in the second half Rylands were reduced to 12 after Andy Brown was sin binned and Shevington took full advantage to score an unconverted try and give a scoreline of 14-10 in Rylands favour. A bit of an arm wrestle ensued before former Warrington flyer Mark Forster powered onto an inside ball from son Chris and go under the posts for a well worked try, Chris added the extras and Rylands had a 10 point cushion which allowed them to express themselves, a powerful run from Anthony Poole inside his own 20 metre line opened up the Shevington defence before he drew the full back and passed to the supporting Chris Forster who went in unopposed for his hat-trick his
conversion completed the scoring. Best for Rylands Neil Evans, Ian Ward, Anthony Poole and the hard working Iain Ratcliffe

Bold Miners 12 v 10 Rylands

Rylands were denied victory when a last minute try from Peter Leonard was controversially ruled out by the official, Phil Stevens offloaded in the tackle and Leonard went over only for the referee to deem that Stevens elbow had touched the ground before he offloaded. Before that Mark Forster gave Rylands an early lead with a solo effort, but Bold levelled on the stroke of half time as Rylands waited for the referees whistle for a clear knock on Bold played on and got their reward to give a 4-4 scoreline. Bold led 6-4 with a penalty in the first minute of the second half, but Rylands
refused to accept defeat and Man of the Match Jonno Smith in his first appearance at second row for Rylands burst through the Bold defence to score, Chris Forster landed the conversion and Rylands led 10-6. Bold levelled with a breakaway try and then with 10 minutes remaining they were awarded another penalty which they converted to give them a 12-10 advantage.
Rylands chased the game in the final ten but they could not penetrate the Bold defence until the final minute when the referee ruled in favour of the home side. Best for Rylands Jonno Smith, Ian Ward and Tosh Thurston Orrell St James 20 v Rylands 30 Rylands looked destined for another narrow defeat until a devastating final 6 minutes spell which saw them score 16 unanswered points.
Orrell took the lead on 24 minutes with a penalty but Rylands responded with a try from Mark Forster converted by Chris Forster to give Rylands a 6-2 interval lead. At the start of the second period Orrell took the lead with a converted try only for Mark Forster to regain the lead for Rylands after a lovely pass from Ian Ward split the Orrell defence, Chris Forster converted and Rylands
led 12-8 Orrell briefly regained the lead with a converted try but Chris Forster levelled
the game at 14-14 with a penalty. In a game that swung one way then the other it was Orrell who took the lead for the third time on 67 minutes with a sweeping move resulting in a try in the corner which was converted to give them a 20-14 advantage. Rylands refused to accept defeat with Man of the Match Steve Smythe driving the team forward with some surging breaks, but Orrell?s defence scrambled back on each occasion to deny Rylands the vital score they needed until Andy
Pucill put in a little grubber kick behind the Orrell defence and he raced through to get the touchdown Chris Forster kept his nerve to land the conversion and the game was tied at 20-20 with 2 minutes of normal remaining. From the restart Orrell tried to regain possession but the ball was seized on by Jonathan Smith who burst through the first line of defence and outpaced the cover with a sizzling 70 metre dash to the corner which had the Rylands faithful jumping for joy. With 4 minutes of injury time to play Rylands never allowed the opposition the ball and controlled possession resulting in Ian Ward going over in the corner Chris Forster put the icing on the cake with the touchline conversion and Rylands had secured a tremendous 30-20 win. Best for Rylands, Steve Smythe,Jonathan Smith, Carl Lloyd, Anthony Poole and debutant Rex Glassie
Rylands: Carl Lloyd, Danny Hoyland, Paul Clayton, Mark Forster, Anthony Poole, Chris Forster, Peter Leonard, Iain Ratcliffe, Ian Ward, Andy Pucill, Phil Stevens, Jonno Smith, Andy Brown, Steve Smythe, Chris Clayson, Simon Walter, Rex Glassie

FOLLY LANE 12 v RYLANDS SHARKS 52 (lancashire Cup 2nd Round)

A MARK FORSTER HAT TRICK OF TRIES WAS THE HIGHLIGHT OF RYLANDS 9 TRY DEMOLITION OF FOLLY LANE BUT IT WAS THE CREATIVITY OF HALF BACKS CHRIS FORSTER AND PETER LEONARD THAT WERE A CONSTANT THORN IN THE SWINTON TEAMS SIDE BEHIND A DOMINANT PACK IN WHICH PHIL STEVENS, JONATHAN SMITH AND SIMON WALTER WERE ALL OUTSTANDING THE HALF BACKS WERE ALLOWED TO EXPRESS THEMSELVES. IN A DEVASTATING 18 MINUTE SPELL IN THE FIRST HALF RYLANDS RAN IN 5 CONVERTED TRIES FROM ANDY PUCILL, CARL LLOYD, MARK FORSTER, JONATHAN SMITH AND ANTHONY POOLE
A TRY EITHER SIDE OF HALF TIME FROM THE HOME SIDE THREATENED A COMEBACK BUT MARK FORSTER SETTLED THE RYLANDS OUTFIT WITH HIS SECOND TRY OF THE AFTERNOON BEFORE CHRIS FORSTER DUMMIED HIS WAY OVER AND DANNY HOYLAND GRABBED HIS FIRST TRY OF THE SEASON TO EXTEND RYLANDS LEAD.ON THE STROCK OF FULL TIME MARK FORSTER COMPLETED HIS HAT TRICK PLUCKING OUT A PETER LEONARD CROSS FIELD KICK TO COMPLETE A EXCELLENT PERFORMANCE FROM THE GORSEY LANERS.
Rylands: Carl Lloyd, Anthony Poole, Neil Evans, Mark Forster, Jamie Evans, Chris Forster, Peter Leonard, Simon Walter, Ste Smythe, Andy Pucill, Phil Stevens, Jonno Smith, Ian Ward, Danny Hoyland, Iain Ratcliffe, Chris Clayson, Dane Evans.

RYLANDS SHARKS 49 v BOLD MINERS 16

RYLANDS SHARKS CONTINUED THEIR IMPROVED FORM WITH ANOTHER FIVE STAR PERFORMANCE IN THE MARK NORRIS BUILDING SERVICES PREMIER DIVISION. IAN WARD WAS THE FIRST TRY SCORER BACKING UP A BREAK FROM MARK FORSTER WHICH PETER LEONARD CONVERTED BUT THE VISITERS STUNNED RYLANDS WITH TWO QUICK TRIES ONE CONVERTED TO LEAD 10-6 IAIN RATCLIFFE PROVIDED THE PASS FOR NEIL EVANS TO LEVEL THE SCORES THEN TURNED TRY SCORER WHEN HE COLLECTED A PASS FROM ANTHONY POOLE, LEONARD CONVERTED
AND RYLANDS LED 16-10. ON THE STROKE OF HALF TIME MAN OF THE MATCH JONNO SMITH SCORED THE TRY OF THE GAME THROWING AN OUTRAGEOUS DUMMY AND CUTTING BACK INSIDE TO POWER OVER THE LINE AND RYLANDS LED 20-10 AT THE BREAK THE INTRODUCTION OF DANNY FORSTER IN THE DUMMY POSITION SPED UP THE PLAY BALLS AND MARK FORSTER BENIFITED PICKING THE BALL UP ONE HANDED AND RACING AWAY TO SCORE. SOON AFTER IAN WARD GOT HIS SECOND TRY BOTH TRIES CONVERTED BY PETER LEONARD WHO SOON AFTER ADDED A ONE POINTER TO GIVE RYLANDS AN UNASSAILABLE 33-10 ADVANTAGE. AS BOLD MINERS VISIBLY TIRED RYLANDS KEPT UP THE PRESSURE, AND EXCELLENT HANDLING FROM THE SHARKS BROUGHT TWO TRIES IN TWO MINUTES FOR WINGER JAMIE EVANS. BOLD GOT A CONSOLATION PENALTY TRY AWARDED WITH TWO MINUTES REMAINING BUT RYLANDS STILL HAD TIME TO SCORE ANOTHER TRY FROM FULL BACK CARL LLOYD, LEONARD ADDED HIS 6TH CONVERSION OF THE AFTERNOON AND RYLANDS HAD SECURED THEIR THIRD LEAGUE WIN OF THE SEASON IN EMPHATIC FASHION. BEST FOR RYLANDS JONNO SMITH, MARK FORSTER, IAN WARD AND PETER LEONARD. THIS SATURDAY RYLANDS SHARKS ENTERTAIN LATCHFORD ALBION AT GORSEY LANE IN

Rylands Sharks 22 v 10 Latchford Albion.

In a pulsating Mark Norris Building Services Premier Division local derby Rylands Sharks had to come from behind twice to gain a hard earned win against a battling Latchford side. Tony Faitaua opened the scoring for Latchford with a powerful 60 metre dash converted by Matthew Taylor but Rylands responded when a Peter Leonard kick was not fielded by Latchford full back Craig Middlemore and Ian Ward pounced, Leonard added the extras to tie the game up at 6-6.
Matthew Taylor then went over for Latchford to give them a four point advantage but before half time Rylands were back in the ascendancy thanks to Man of the Match Jonno Smith who sliced through the Latchford defence from a Leonard pass and his conversion gave Rylands a 12-10 half time lead. Playing into a gale force wind Rylands controlled the ball a lot better after the break and were rewarded with a try from Chris Clayson who through a dummy then strode through the Latchford defence, Leonards conversion gave Rylands an 8 point advantage.
Latchford through caution to the wind as they chased the game but a loose pass was swooped on by Carl Lloyd and he fed the supporting Tony Berry who raced over in the corner to make the score 22-10. Latchford still kept going and a loose pass from Andy Pucill was kicked on by Latchfords Kris Buckley, but the foot race was won by Jamie Evans to save a certain try and end any
hopes Latchford had of a comeback.
Best for Rylands, Jonno Smith, Ian Ratcliffe and Anthony Poole, while Simon
Bird was outstanding for Latchford.

MIXED FORTUNES FOR RYLANDS SHARKS

Rylands Sharks had a weekend to forget and one to remember in an eventful 2 days. Rylands Sharks Open Age first team crashed out of the BARLA Lancashire Cup at the quarter final stage after losing 18-12 at Wigan St Cuthberts, leading 12-6 with only 2 minutes remaining after tries from Andy Pucill and Neil Evans both converted by Peter Leonard the Sharks strived to lose the
game with the home side going over for two converted tries to snatch the game. It was tough on the Rylands side who created lots of opportunities but failed to finish them and they paid the consequences. Best for Rylands Leonard, Phil Stevens and Andy Smith

Rylands Sharks 18 v Pilkingtons 16

Rylands Sharks scored two converted tries in the last 8 minutes to deservedly win this entertaining Mark Norris Building Services Premier Division clashat Gorsey Lane.
Rylands knew they were in for a tough afternoon when Pilks went in for a converted try in the opening minutes. Rylands spilt a lot of possession in the early sets but once they controlled the ball a period of sustained pressure saw Mike Lee crash over and Chris Forster levelled the game up with the conversion. Pilks restored their advantage with a try on the stroke of half time, but crucially the conversion was missed. The second half was dominated by Rylands, they crossed the tryline twice in the opening minutes but failed to ground the ball properly and Pilks took advantage by going the length of the field to score a converted try and stretch their lead to 16-6.
As Rylands piled on the pressure Pilks looked nervous and Jonno Smith took advantage by slicing through the defence for a tremendous try, Forster landed the conversion and the game was on a knife edge with 7 minutes remaining. The match winning try was set up by Peter Leonard as Pilks pressurised his kick, he dinked over a little chip kick which took a wicked bounce away from the full back and into the hands of the supporting Chris Forster who ran in under the sticks to level the scores, he then held his nerve to knock over the conversion and Rylands led for the first time in the match with 5 minutes remaining on the clock. Pilkingtons gave everything in the dying minutes to snatch the win but the Sharks defence was inspired as they repelled wave after wave of attacks from the Glassmen to take the points.
Best for Rylands Dane Evans, Iain Ratcliffe and Jamie Evans
Rylands: Dane Evans, Danny Hoyland, Neil Evans, Mark Forster, Jamie Evans, Chris Forster, Peter Leonard, Simon Walter, Ian Ward, Andy Pucill, Iain Ratcliffe,
Chris Clayson, Jonno Smith, Phil Stevens, Anthony Poole, Mike Lee, Tony Berry

Wigton 16 v Rylands Sharks 36

Rylands were caught cold after a three hour coach journey to Wigton in this GMB BARLA National Cup first round tie and found themselves 16-6 down in the opening 20 minutes. The hosts scored three tries and two conversions, while Rylands scored a try from Peter Leonard and Chris Forster added the extras. Jonathan Smith scored a crucial try just before half time and Chris Forster
landed the touchline conversion to give a half time score of 16-12. The second half saw Rylands take complete control as Wigton visibly tired Carl Lloyd scored two tries courtesy of some slick passing from centre Neil Evans and Mark Forster grabbed a brace as sons Chris and Danny created openings for him. Peter Leonard and Chris Forster also landed drop goals as Rylands dominated possession with a near perfect second half completion rate. Best
for Rylands Andy Smith, Mike Lee, Chris Clayson and Iain Ratcliffe

Halton Simms Cross 36 v 14 Rylands Sharks.

A depleted Rylands gave a tremendous display at Champions elect Simms Cross who raced into an early 12-0 lead with two converted tries, but an 80 yard interception try from Jamie Evans brought Rylands back into the game at 12-4. Chris Forster then produced a bit of individual magic collecting his own kick and racing under the sticks for the try of the game which he goaled to narrow the gap to 2 points. Rylands were in the ascendancy and when they tackled the Simms Cross fullback
into touch in his own 20 they thought they would have good field position but referee Phil Beddard gave them a penalty one of many as Rylands were on the receiving end of a 20 to 6 penalty count from the Warrington whistle blower.
Simms Cross took advantage of their good fortune racing in for two converted tries before half time to give them a 24-10 lead. The second half saw Rylands camped in the Simms Cross half but excellent defence kept Rylands at bay. Man of the Match Carl Lloyd was then despatched to the sin bin and Simmies ran in two converted tries to seal the game. Rylands kept going forward and were rewarded with a try from Jonno Smith to give a final score of 36-14. Best for Rylands were the tireless Phil Stevens and
Paul Thurston while 17 year old debutant Aidan James was excellent in the hooking role.

East Leeds 30 v 28 Rylands Sharks

Rylands Sharks made NCL1 side East Leeds battle all the way in a thrilling GMB Union National Cup 2nd Round tie. Leeds took the lead with a converted try in the opening 5 minutes but from then on it was Rylands who dominated with the impressive Jonathan Smith grabbing a brace of tries and prop Simon Walter getting his first try in Rylands colours. Chris Forster converted all three tries and added a penalty to give Rylands a 20-6 lead. On the stroke of half time Leeds grabbed a lifeline with a converted try to narrow the gap to 8.
Playing up hill in the second half Rylands continued to dominate proceedings and scored the try of the game when Man of the Match Andy Smith off loaded under pressure to the supporting Tosh Thurston who burst through under the posts, Forster's conversion gave Rylands breathing space at 26-12. Injuries to key players and a heavy penalty count in favour of the home side gave them a foothold in the Rylands half which they took advantage of scoring two converted tries in a 20 minute spell midway through the second half, all Rylands had to show for their efforts in this period was a drop goal each for Forster and Leonard to give Rylands a narrow 28-24 lead. The Sharks
defence tightened and East Leeds could not find a way through until 5 minutes from time when a cross field kick was gathered by their pacy winger and he raced over, the conversion gave East Leeds the lead which they held on to and Rylands could not believe they went home defeated after dominating their opponents for long periods. Best for Rylands Andy Smith, Jonno Smith, Paul
Thurston and Neil Evans Sharks show their teeth.
Rylands Sharks defeated Champions Halton Simms Cross with a magnificent team display in the Mark Norris Building Services Premier Division clash at a packed Gorsey Lane. Simmies started brightly and took an early lead with a converted try, but the Rylands side led superbly by Mark Forster were soon level with a try from Centre Neil Evans converted by Chris Forster to give a 6-6 half time score line. Soon after the re-start Simmies took a 4 point advantage with an unconverted try and Rylands had to chase the game. A try from winger Jamie Evans looked to have tied the game up, but his try was ruled out by the official for offside. Rylands were not to be denied though because moments later Scrum Half Peter Leonard burrowed over from close range after Darren Hill was held inches short of the line, Forsters conversion gave The Sharks a brief lead as a penalty goal from Simmies levelled the scores with 20 minutes remaining. Both teams put in tremendous defensive efforts but a drop goal on 70 minutes from Chris Forster broke the deadlock and gave Rylands a narrow advantage. The expected onslaught from the Champions never came though as Rylands dominated the final 10 minutes of play culminating in a superb try from Man of the Match Jonno Smith converted by Chris Forster to give Rylands a deserved 19-12 victory.
Rylands Sharks: Paul Thurston, Anthony Poole, Neil Evans, Mark Forster, Jamie Evans, Chris Forster, Peter Leonard, Andy Smith, Ian Ward, Simon Walter, Iain Ratcliffe, Phil Stevens, Jonno Smith, Darren Hill, Mike Ward, Paul Bagley, Mike Lee

Rylands Sharks 36 v Orrell St James 30

Rylands won their 7th Mark Norris Building Services Premier Division game to cement a top five position after this 11 try thriller at Gorsey Lane. Rylands started lethargically in the opening 20 minutes allow Orrell to open up an 18-6 advantage, Rylands only score in this period was an Iain Ratcliffe try converted by Chris Forster. The introduction of Mike Lee from the bench
seemed to lift the Sharks and it was he who raced in for a solo effort before half time to narrow the gap to 6 before the break. A few words of wisdom from the coaches at half time seemed to do the trick as Rylands came out like a new team ripping holes in the Orrell defence and scoring three tries in a devastating opening 10 minute spell from Jamie Evans, Carl Lloyd and Jonno Smith, Chris Forster landed 2 conversions and Rylands led 28-18. Orrell refused to accept defeat and came storming back with a converted try, but just as they looked liked hauling themselves back into the game up popped Jonno Smith with his second try to stretch Rylands lead to 34-24. Again Orrell
responded with a converted try to narrow the gap to 4 points which led to a tense final 6 minutes, but Rylands held on and a penalty goal from the boot of Chris Forster gave them a deserved 36-30 victory. Best for Rylands were Ian Ward whose workrate was phenomenal just edging the Man of the Match award from Jonno Smith and Mike Lee.

Rylands Sharks 26 v 4 Barrow Island

Rylands Sharks made hard work of breaking down the stubborn Cumbrians, but were never in danger of losing as they ran out eventual comfortable winners. First half tries from Man of the Match Ian Ward, Chris Forster and Neil Evans plus a penalty from Chris Forster gave Rylands a 14-0 half time advantage. In heavy conditions not suitable to free flowing rugby Rylands were stifled by the Islanders but still managed two second half tries from Jamie Evans and Anthony Poole both converted by Forster. Barrow got a deserved consolation try to give a final score of 26-4 in
favour of the Sharks who moved to within a point of rivals Bank Quay Bulls in the Mark Norris Building Services Premier Division. Best for Rylands Sharks were Ian Ward, 16 year old Hayden James and Carl Lloyd.

Latchford Albion 12 v 38 Rylands Sharks

Rylands started slowly in this local derby allowing Latchford to open up a 8-0 advantage with two quick tries from Tony Faitava and Andy Rawlinson. Rylands came storming back before half time with 3 converted tries from Jamie Evans, Carl Lloyd and Neil Evans with instigator of all three tries Peter Leonard adding the conversions to give Rylands an 18-8 half time lead.
Rylands piled on the pressure in the second half as Latchford tired, some slick handling from the Sharks was rewarded with braces of tries for Mike Ward and Mark Martin with Leonard adding the extras to two tries. Ben Fawcett grabbed a consolation for Latchford. Best for Rylands were Peter Leonard, Mark Martin and first team debutants Jimmy Harrison and Chris Forrest. While John Williams was best for Latchford

Haydock 28 v 38 Rylands Sharks.

Rylands made hard work of disposing of Haydock after a lethargic opening 35 minutes in which they conceded three tries and found themselves 20-6 down with only a Peter Leonard converted try to show for their efforts. Just before the break Rylands scored two crucial quick tries from Mark Martin and Jonno Smith, one converted by Leonard to make the half time score 20-16. Early in the second half Rylands seemed to have got a grip on the game as Jonno Smith, Carl Lloyd and
Mike Ward all crossed for tries, with two Leonard goals making it 32-20 in Rylands favour.
Haydock in their final game of the season gave their all and responded with two well worked tries to narrow the gap to four points, but the game was finally decided by a rampaging Andy Smith who crashed over by the posts and Leonard added the extras to give Rylands a deserved yet
unconvincing win. Best for Rylands were Man of the Match Jonno Smith, Tosh Thurston and Neil Evans

Blackbrook 40 v Rylands Sharks 12

Rylands were comfortably beaten in the Mark Norris Building Services Premier Division by title chasing Blackbrook on hot and sunny Easter Saturday at Boardman?s Lane. Already missing 6 first team regulars due to injury, holidays and Great Britain call ups Rylands had the misfortune of losing Jonno Smith in the opening 5 minutes and Blackbrook took advantage of this running in three converted tries in the opening 40 minutes. Rylands had their chances in the first half but failed to take them, losing the ball on three separate occasions with the line beckoning.
The second half started promisingly for the Sharks, when a quick play the ball from Man of the Match Iain Ratcliffe allowed Mike Lee to force his way over from close range, Peter Leonard added the extras before a breakaway try from Brook extended their lead to 22-6. Rylands were in the ascendancy however and a superb individual try from the impressive Ian Ward converted by Leonard narrowed the gap to 10.
With 20 minutes remaining Rylands were still in the game but then tragedy struck for the Sharks when the influential Ian Ward had to carried from the field with an ankle injury and with that went Rylands chances. Blackbrook showed their superior fitness in the final period running in three converted tries to give them a convincing victory in the end. Best for Rylands Ratcliffe, Ian Ward, Hayden James and Danny Forster.

REARDON HAT-TRICK NOT ENOUGH FOR ALBION
Carlsberg �Tetley Warrington Knockout Semi-Final
Latchford Albion 20 v Rylands Sharks 22

A last minute penalty goal from BARLA Great Britain International Chris Forster decided this entertaining local derby and sent Rylands Sharks to the final on Saturday May 26th where they will play either Crosfields or Bank Quay Bulls at Crosfields. Latchford started the game strongly and opened the scoring with a Vinnie Reardon try converted by Nick Owen. Rylands responded quickly
with two tries from full back Carl Lloyd both created by Chris Forster, Peter Leonard converted one and Rylands led 10-6.
A Nick Owen penalty for Albion narrowed the gap to two before Forster again provided the pass for centre Neil Evans to stride over and give Rylands a 14-8 half time advantage. Latchford levelled the scores 5 minutes into the second half with another Reardon try converted by Owen. Rylands had to dig deep and within ten minutes they were back in front, Chris Forster was again the instigator running across the line before popping up a pass for prop forward Mike Lee to crash over, Forster took on the kicking duties and converted the try to give Rylands a 6 point advantage. Albion refused to accept defeat and it was Reardon again who stepped through the Sharks defence to complete his hat-trick, Owens conversion levelled the scores again to set up a tense final twenty minutes.
Forster had two long range penalties waved away by the official on 70 and 75 minutes as Latchford were penalised for high shots, but with thirty seconds remaining Latchford were penalised again and this time their ill discipline cost them as Forster held his nerve to land a touchline kick straight through the posts to snatch victory for the Sharks. Best for Rylands Phil Stevens, Hayden James and Iain Ratcliffe while Albion were best served by Reardon, Matty Patterson and Matty Taylor.

Open Age Match Reports 2008-09

Rylands 2008 - 09.

Rylands A 2008 - 09.

Rylands 2007-2008

Rylands A 2007 - 2008

Rylands 2006 - 07.

Earlier Reports in the Gallery

Rylands 2008 - 09.

Rylands A 2008 - 09.

Rylands 2007-2008

Rylands A 2007 - 2008

Rylands 2006 - 07.

Earlier Reports in the Gallery