Cumbrian Challenge ends in defeat...

The Army Rugby League side exited the Challenge Cup at the 1st round with a defeat up in Cumbria.

For 60 minutes the score line could have gone either way with both side showing some punishing defence. Egremont however managed to show more composure during the last 20, which saw them extend the lead, but the Army failed to give up and continued to show their fighting spirit until the final whistle.

Head Coach Ben Taylor, though disappointed with the defeat heaped praise on his squad. "We came here wanting to improve certain aspects of our game that we learnt from the London defeat. Today we witnessed that and with only having 2 days training prior, I was impressed with how we performed."

"Army RL now have a few months' break whilst the players return back to their Corps sides ready for the 2017 Lawson Cup competition. We will analyse the game and be ready to input our findings when we next met in April."

The 2017 setup will now split into the 1st XIII and A team. The A team will be coached by Capt Jay Oie (RA) who will work closely with Ben, to ensure that the both setups work together utilising all the coaches and facilities ready for the Inter Services in September.

Army RL would like to personally thank the Mayor of St Helens Cllr Dave Banks MP and St Helens council for hosting and allowing them the use of the new 4G pitch and facilities at Ruskin Drive, Ian Talbot and The Saints Foundation for their input into this week's training, Jennifer Buckley, physio and the rehabilitation department at St Helens College for their work they did with the players at very short notice.

Finally Army RL would also like to thank Egremont Rangers for their hospitality as well as the collection for the charity "Help for Heroes".

Tries:
M Scott
M Mercer
M Hoyle

Conv.
J Young x1

Photos courtesy of Chris Woods. Report courtesy of Andy Fyles.