Altrincham Kersal 12 Wirral 38

A YOUNG Wirral side with six debutantes in the squad overcame a stubborn Altrincham & Kersal (AK) side in this Cheshire Vase quarter final, although with better ball control could have won this game more easily.

The first try of the season was scored by flanker Tom Parry after four minutes with a solo effort and side step from 30m out; converted by James Annetts.

By the time the second try was scored in the 22nd minute, Wirral had enjoyed significant territorial advantage but could not convert to points.

The second try was scored from close range by captain Craig Harvey and on the half hour Wirral further extended their lead to 0-21 with a well-executed backs move which saw Rob Pearl score in the corner; excellently converted by James Annetts.

At this stage Wirral, who had already made two substitutions for injuries, appeared to take the foot off the pedal and allowed AK into the game with a series of penalties awarded to the home side.

From a 5m line out, the AK forwards drove over the line to touchdown; score at half time, 7-21.

AK started the second half with greater purpose, secured the majority of possession and reduced Wirral's lead to 12-21 when their winger outpaced the defence to score.

Wirral were sparked into action and in the remaining 15 minutes ran in three further tries. 

The first was a penalty try, a further try from Craig Harvey and a debut try for scrum half, Chris Crowley.

One try converted, final score 12-38.

In this final period Wirral proved the strength of their squad and gave coach, Matt Cairns the opportunity to look at a number of players in a match situation pending the first league game at home next week against newly-promoted Pocklington.

With injuries from this match and unavailability there will be a number of changes to the team which took to the field on Sunday.