Four Wilmslow players, Mark Williams, Olly McCall, Ben Jones and Max Harvey ( returning from injury) successfully made selection and were part of a 'Full house' of players at the Friday training session to set the tone and commitment level between a 'bonded' group of players, returning from their Nationally displaced university and work commitment's to represent their county at Under 20's level once more.
Having overcome the tournament's national favourites Yorkshire on 10th February, the quarter final fixture on Sunday, 7th April, against firm favourites Gloucester was once more to pit the tenacious Cheshire underdogs against challenging worthy opponents who had not lost a fixture (other than in a final for over 6 years).
Spirits were therefore high on the long trip to the historic Cinderford Club Gloucester, where the friendly hospitality had to be temporarily placed to one side as the intensity of pre-game preparation under ex-Wilmslow coach Giles Heagarty focussed team performance on 'the task in hand'.
In summary, an initial crisp attack by Cheshire resulted in an early Try, that motivated the hosts into a strong return display closely followed by their own equalising score. The first ten minutes indicated a gnarly battle was to unfold, and despite the frequency of the presiding officials shrill whistle blasts, very little advantage was played, and the free flow of running rugby for both teams appeared equally impeded.
Cheshire adapted well, and after several periods of attack camped within the opponent's 22 metre line, they successfully breached the tiring Gloucester's defences with a superb Four try display, matched by only Two from the gracious hosts. With the 'Trimmings' (penalties / conversions) the final score of 17-24, had not only provided spectators with a quality rugby demonstration from two focussed and capable teams, but also displayed individual performances and 'Team Skills' worthy of the long journey.
The immediate performance review has already commenced, and further training sessions are already in place with Coach Heagerty and his team clearly focussed on the next 80 minutes performance. The commitment of Team Manager, Ian Stanton, and the Cheshire U 20's Chairman and committee investing time, equipment, venues and resources continues to support this developing young Cheshire team.
Following other results in this national competition, Cheshire are now set to play Kent in the semi final fixture set for a 2.15pm kick off on Sunday 21st April 2013 at Sale FC Rugby Club, Heywood Road, Sale, Cheshire, M33 3WB .
Come along to support your county, support our players and watch a great game of rugby.
Photo (l-r) Mark Williams, Ben Jones, Olly McCall and Max Harvey.
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