With no league fixtures this weekend Thornton played a friendly game against the newly formed Orrell 2's. Orrell brought a good mix of old heads along with some new to the game players. Thornton looked to give game time to some players who haven't played a lot in recent weeks and certainly there was some rustiness. Credit must however be given to the Orrell side who battled hard all game and who's tackling was a credit to their side.

The game was played on the back pitch to save the 1st team pitch. Orrell kicked off deep into Thornton territory. Thornton kept the ball well and played the ball up the field. This play continued for the first 20 minutes. With Thornton keeping ball and Orrell's defence holding strong. Thornton continued to attack around the fringes despite gaps being apparent in the backs. This however proved fruitful as Baz Tucker added to his impressive try tally. Crossing the line close to the sticks. Captain for the day Pete Macauley adding the extras.

The feeling was that once Thornton had scored then perhaps the floodgates may open. This wasn't to be the case as the hard hitting Orrell side continued to make tackle after tackle. Thornton perhaps being guilty of holding onto the ball too much and not getting it to the threatening back 3. Steve Hatch imparticular was always a threat when running the ball back from full back.

With the referees half time whistle the message from the touch line was speed up the game, attack wider and be more clinical at the rucks.

Thornton started to play with a bit more freedom in the second half. Second half substitutions meant that Thornton were fresh against Orrell's tired legs. Chris Clapp took full advantage of this with his first touch of the ball. Great footwork and speed from a switch enabled the outside centre to burst through a gap and score. Macauley unable to convert this time.

Thorntons final try again came courtesy of a Clapp break, this time drawing the full back and passing to birthday boy Dean Finegan, scoring his first try for the club.

All in all this was a useful exercise for the Thornton lads. Orrell proved themselves a real test and good luck to them as they continue to try and set up a weekly 2nd team.

Positives for Thornton was a full 80 mins for Ralph Clarke in the row. Will Gardner managed 20 mins without his hamstring snapping. TCRUFC's, Blackpool college front row played well and continue their steep learning curve into senior rugby. Hooker Will Paterson impressing with his aggression at the break down.

Thornton return to much more serious work next weekend with the 1st team hosting Trafford MV in front of our past players and the 2nd team travelling to Eccles in search of 3rd place in the league.

Low and Hard
Mark Hanson