Hoylake v Ormskirk - Match Report

Hoylake 10
Ormskirk 3

Hoylake consolidated their position in 6th place in the league with a hard fought victory over seventh placed Ormskirk. In difficult conditions, the hosts were in determined mood following the shock 51-14 reverse to the league newcomers in September.

Two unconverted tries were enough to secure the points in a scrappy, physical encounter. The first came from full back Mike Kearney after concerted pressure finally resulted in the score Hoylake deserved after half an hour. The second came 20 minutes into the second half from centre, Chris Whiteley, who spotted a one on one after winger, Dan Baldock, had sucked in the defence with a quick pick and drive. Whiteley used his power to touch down in the corner.

All credit to Ormskirk who hadn’t threatened the Hoylake line since the opening exchanges. They came back at the hosts and converted a penalty via their fly half. Then with just 10 minutes remaining, they camped deep in the Hoylake half as they went in search of the converted try that would give them a draw. However, the Hoylake defence stood firm despite conceding several penalties under the concerted pressure.

There was a huge sigh of relief around Melrose Avenue as the referee blew for full time. Hoylake were deserved winners but Ormskirk had given a decent account of themselves on the day.

The sponsor’s Man of the Match went to dynamic prop Jack Collister, but there were also fine displays from Collister’s fellow prop Matt O’Neill and the triumvirate of last year’s Colts, Tom Lavin (pictured), Mike Kearney and Matt O’Hanlon who are all growing in confidence and stature each week. Special mention should also go to hooker Steve Butterworth who came out of retirement (yet again!) to put in a strong performance.

Hoylake are next in league action on January 10th, when they travel to the league’s bottom club, Dukinfield. In the meantime, the club are awaiting confirmation of the Cheshire Plate fixture against Crewe & Nantwich which is expected to be played at Melrose Avenue on January 3rd.