Wirral score two tries in first seven minutes

IN the past two seasons matches against Cleckheaton have proved to be close affairs but on Saturday at the Memorial Ground, Wirral scored two tries in the first seven minutes to establish a 14-0 lead with some excellent handling and purposeful running.

Both were scored by James Reeve making his first start of the season as he supported players on half breaks, both were converted by James Annetts.

A third try was scored just before half time when Mark Williams collected a long pass to stroll in at the corner, again converted to give the home side a comfortable 21-0 lead.

Immediately after the restart a well-executed backs move saw Mark Williams on hand to score his second try and the all-important try bonus point.

This was quickly followed by the try of the game when Tom Parry battled through would be tacklers and then with an astute pass put in Rob Pearl for a clear 35m run to the line and with both tries being converted gave Wirral a 35-0 lead.

For their part, Cleckheaton continued to play with great determination and using their forwards were able to make progress downfield.

In the closing minutes of the game, Wirral improved their points difference with two further converted tries.

Next week Wirral have a difficult away match at sixth-placed Sandal.