MATCH REPORT: Vale of Lune 2nd XV 10 - 36 Anselmians 2nd XV

It was defeat for Vale of Lune in the Baines Plumbing Division One – Impact North West League.

Anselmians travelled by coach and were clearly determined to make their longest journey of the season worthwhile.

The Vale XV was filled with youth, experience and genuine pace. Once again, the Colts were to play a major part in the proceedings. With both sides boasting tremendous pace, a competitive and entertaining game was guaranteed.

The game began with determined attacking play from the visitors, but from a break in play Kev Briston burst clear and raced some 70 yards to post the Vale’s first score after 10 minutes.

Anselmians responded strongly. On the 20‑minute mark they crossed for 5 points, and five minutes later added a converted try. Spreading the ball wide and using their pace, they crossed again for another 7‑pointer, and the Vale realised they were in for a battle.

Ollie Ball at scrum‑half distributed with his usual accuracy to the experienced fly‑half Jamie Antcliffe. In the centre, Alex Lamont and Josh Wells were tying things up, while out wide Kev Briston and Josh Wells were called upon in defence but showed tremendous pace in possession.

Hayden Mills, always welcome when available, plied his trade at fullback. His pace and guile are always a feature of his game, and he contributed fully with his undoubted talent.

A yellow card was shown to Jake Wilson by referee Karl Kirkpatrick, and in his absence Anselmians posted another try, taking the score to 26–5.

Manager Lee Starkey made changes, introducing Harrison Dodge, Billy Bolton and Josh McKinnon. The replacements were used thoughtfully, but the game was slipping away. Another converted try stretched the gap, followed by a penalty and another 7‑pointer.

It was left to Kev Briston to score the try of the match with a run from well inside his own half, outstripping the Anselmians defence with blistering pace.

The side now play the return fixture in two weeks’ time.

Here are some images of the game, by Tony North.

Vale's Kyel Dempsey charging

Oliver Ball clears from the ruck

Tom Fox on the move

Jamie Antcliffe

Vale puts Anselmians under pressure