Forty Point Win at Novos

Westoe progress to the Quarter final of the Intermediate National Cup.

Report by Andy Kirton

The game kicked off in conditions similar to the depths of winter, with Westoe playing into a stiff wind. Novos objective from the start was to pin Westoe in their own half and profit from the clearance kicks; however Westoe set out on a different strategy and carried short, with strong runs from Louis Kellett and Raymie Elliot.

The first half was a bit of an arm wrestle with the majority of the play within the 22m lines. Good defence from both teams nullified all attacking options. Westoe decided route one was the best approach and after several pick and goes were awarded the first try of the game with about 30 minutes on the clock. Luke Moffet converting from wide against a head wind. The first half ended with both teams defending well and nullifying each other’s attack.

Half time score 0-7

The second half started with the conditions at Westoe's back allowing them to open up their play as a result. Straight running form makeshift centres Joe Mckenzie and Luke Mofftet were instrumental in setting up a couple of quick scores.

A moment of stupidity then followed with Westoe on the opposition 5m line. Ryan lamb cleared a player off the ball and was rightfully yellow carded; however this did not effect the teams approach and with 14 men added an additional 3 tries to their tally.

The pick of them all was set up by Alex Wylie, earning his 1st XV tie today, when he took the restart like an NFL wide receiver and made 30m before the ball was recycled, resulting in smoking Joe Mckenzie scoring under the sticks.

Westoe’s defence held out until the final whistle and full credit to Novos who never gave up their attack, and were only denied a consolation try at the end my some superb cover defence by flyhalf Andy Sutherland. The game ended 0-40 to the away side.

Westoe not only claim valuable league points against their closest rivals, but also progress through to the last 8 of the Intermediate National Cup. With the next round to be played next week the 16/03/18 with the opponents and venue still unconfirmed.

Next week Westoe need to maintain there defensive efforts as the create opportunities for themselves off the back of it.

Plenty for the team to work on through the week, as they continue their post Christmas revival.