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So Close Yet So Far

So Close Yet So Far

Aaron Jones9 Jun 2017 - 18:43
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Coming from the strong position of 3rd place last season where they were so close to gaining promotion.

Littleborough 2’s were always going to find it difficult to replicate the same form in such an evenly competitive division where as many as 5 teams all held realistic title aspirations. And though Boro would narrowly fall short, this year in many ways has been more successful than the last.

Right from the very start you could tell that like seasons' recently gone by, that it would be as highly competitive as predicted pre-season. The black green and yellow encountered title rivals Bolton 2, Southport 2 as well as eventual promotion winners Sedgeley Park 3 and Kendal within the opening 2 months.

Losses in these games left an ominous road ahead and put Littleborough immediately on the back foot in what needed to be a consistent performing season if they were to finish top. Despite all this there was a calm atmosphere and approach that would fuel the Littleborough fire for the rest of the season. Stereo-typically the Boro 2nd team struggle in the first few games of the season before the hitting the heights of performance entering into the Christmas period.

This year was no exception as the team grew hugely in stability and confidence as 2016 went on. For the first time in a number of years, the second team had a real core group of about 10-12 players that would play week in week out and that had a significant impact on results.

November, December and January oversaw a six game winning streak against teams such as West Park St Helens, Fleetwood, revenge on Bolton as well as the performance of the season at Leigh. At this level, winning away by any margin is a big achievement but to put Leigh to the slaughter with 7 tries of high quality was extra special. A perfect way to end 2016 that would hopefully set the platform for an even more successful 2017.

However as the season neared the final leg; Littleborough’s fortune went too. A cruel loss in the Cup Semi final away at Northwich despite drawing the game 14 all, was compounded by defeats home and away to a Vale of Lune 3’s side who until they were bolstered by a significant number of 1st and 2nd team players had only 1 won of their first 14 matches. The title fight was over.

Littleborough would have to settle for fourth. But on reflection this season has seen huge increase in squad cohesion and stability amongst the second team, even when a number of players have been called up the first team. Players like Josh Ellidge, Joel Rawlinson, Paul Fino and Chris Collins have played their fair share of matches for both 1st and 2nd teams this season.

Will the second team make it third time lucky next season? Stay tuned to find out…

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