Hindley U15 10
Latchford Albion Unicorns U15 30

Latchford finished the game in style to claim victory in their first game of the new campaign. After a solid start the Unicorns led through a converted Reynold's touchdown. As Latchford failed to deal with their impressive aerial bombardment, newly-promoted Hindley retook the lead through two well-worked tries.

As if stung into action, Cooper and Britton immediately supplied much-needed momentum and urgency. This allowed Mellor space to release Rigby on a mercurial 60m dash to the line. Quick and incisive ball-movement produced a score for Burnett in the corner.

After the early abberrations, an aggressive Latchford defence ensured that the Hindley attacks were repelled. In the fading light, Pendlebury impressed as he defused a series of testing bombs while second half tries for Cornelia, Lee and Rigby completed the scoring. Mellor had kicked two goals and Cornelia one. In an excellent team effort the contributions of Davies on his debut, Cooper, Pendlebury, Cornelia and Lomax - with and without his shiny helmet - were especially pleasing.

Team
1. Pendlebury
2. Burnett, 3. Davies, 4. Rigby, 5. Lee
6. Mellor, 7. Cornelia
8. Britton, 9. Reynolds, 10. Cooper
11. Probert, 12. Woolvine
13. Lomax
14. Mills, 15. Doxey, 16. Jackson, 17. Stewart, 18. Newens Back to top

11/09/2005 v Oldham St Anne's (home)

Latchford Albion Unicorns U15 32
Oldham St Annes U15 14

With a number of players absent due to illness, injury, Baptisms and Barmitzvahs, Latchford fielded a depleted squad. The strength of this team effort against a very strong St Annes provides an indication of this team's potential.

Latchford showed attacking adventure and defensive steel from the start and were rewarded with touchdowns for Danny Newens and Tom Rigby. Oldham hit back with a fine try of their own before Joe Mellor crossed to restore the size of the lead for the home side. A rising penalty count hindered the Unicorns and it was no surprise when concerted pressure from St Annes produced a try and an interval scoreline of 14-10.

The second period saw Latchford score three excellent tries. Jack Davis and Mellor produced long-range solo efforts while Richard Taylor provided the finishing touch to an exquisite passing movement. Joe Mellor kicked a goal and ashley Cornelia kicked three. Every player contributed to an excellent team performance with Britton, Lomax and Cornelia outstanding.

Team
1. Pendlebury
2. Newens, 3. Davies, 4. Rigby, 5. Lee
6. Mellor, 7. Cornelia
8. Britton, 9. Taylor, 10. Woolvine
11. Mills, 12. Mairs
13. Lomax
Sub Stewart Back to top

20/09/2005 v Blackbrook Royals (home)

Blackbrook Royals U15 - 28
Latchford Albion Unicorns U15 - 14

Latchford's game at Thatto Heath Crusaders was postponed when Thatto Heath found themselves with selection difficulties. The next scheduled fixture was a home tie with Blackbrook Royals who had not been able to get on the field of play so far this season. The team from St helens requested the venue be switched and the game brought forward to Tuesday evening so it would be played under the Blackbrook floodlights. With no intended disrespect to Latchford's opponents so far this season, the Unicorns knew this was the first real test of their ongoing development. Afterall, Latchford were not used to playing under floodlights and Blackbrook had run 84 points past Latchford in their two meetings last season and only conceded 14.

Latchford kicked off and forced a knock on in the first set. The Unicorns dictated the early exchanges, completing their first three sets and ensuring the home side were not allowed over the halfway line. Latchford needed to capitalise on this early pressure and began to force the ball only to be found wanting on the last. Despite forcing a gola line drop out Latchford still had nothing to show for their efforts when, on 14 minutes Blackbrook exploited a gap in the middle and scored against the run of play. The tide now turned in favour of the home side and three minutes later they extended their lead. A penalty for not playing the ball correctly gave the ball back to Latchford and Richard Taylor scooted over to put the Albion on the scoresheet. Four minutes before half time and Blackbrook discovered a gap down the Latchford right wing to score again. Just on half time the skillful scrum half carved open a gap in the middle giving a lopsided look to the half time score line of 22-4.

Three minutes after the restart and Joe Mellor chiped the ball across to the Royals' right, under pressure the defender spilled it and the impressive Mike Lee was there to pick the ball up and pass inside for his centre, Tom Rigby to score under the posts. Ashley Cornelia converted. Latchford's flow was disrupted with enforced stoppages for treatment to home players but the Albion came close again as Joe Mellor's clever chip over narrowly evaded his outstretched arms. Latchford ensured all their squad of 19 players experienced game time but, rather than such changes breaking down the fluidity of the play, each player contributed to an entertaining game for the neutral. With just five minutes left a nice passing movement out left reached Mellor who went over and brought the scores to just an 8 point gap. Blackbrook weren't to be denied their glory and as the clocked ticked down the Royals went in for another converted try and take the game beyond Latchford's reach.

Team
1. Pendlebury
2. Davies, 3. Probert, 4. Rigby, 5. Lee
6. Mellor, 7. Cornelia
8. Britton, 9. Taylor, 10. Reynolds
11. Woolvine, 12. Mairs
13. Lomax
Subs: 14. Stewart, 15. Mills, 16. Jackson, 17. Doxey, 18. Newens, 19. Burnett Back to top

02/10/2005 v Orrell St James (home)

Latchford Albion Unicorns U15 - 18
Orrell St James U15 - 14

The determination of this Latchford side to chalk up their first ever victory against last season?s Champions initially seemed as if it may contribute to their own downfall. Passes were forced and chances were spurned as the home side appeared to be trying ?too hard?. An impressive Orrell solo try against the run of play stunned Latchford into action with Richard Taylor scoring from a Joe Mellor offload. The extras from Ashley Cornelia gave the Unicorns a half-time advantage.

Within minutes of the restart Orrell seized back the lead. Latchford immediately responded as Kallum Watkins, making his Latchford debut, put Jack Davies over in the corner. Cornelia's touchline conversion put latchford back in front. Davies then moved into the pack and powered over from short range, which Mellor converted. A further Orrell score set up a Grandstand finish but tenacious Latchford defence, with outstanding efforts from Matthew Lomax, Antony Britton, Jack Cooper and Mellor, ensured that they were not denied.

The self belief that these Uniorns should take from this result against excellent opposition may prove to be more significant than the two League points. Even so it is encouraging that this victory has lifted the Unicorns to the top of the Premier League for this week at least and that the team are currently the top point scorers in their division. Back to top

09/10/2005 v Wigan St Patricks (home)

Latchford Albion Unicorns U15 - 10
Wigan St Patricks U15 - 10

Disrupted by early injuries to key performers Jack Cooper and Joe Mellor, Latchford showed great character in this entertaining clash with the reigning National Cup holders. When St Pats opened the scoring with a short range effort, the Unicorns hit back almost immediately. A slick passing movement enabled Danny Newens to touch down in the corner and ensure a half time scoreline of four points all.

Latchford started the second period brightly and a deft grubber kick from Kallum Watkins produced a score for Richard Taylor, who successfully converted his own try. Somewhat disappointingly, sleepy marker defence from the home side gifted a second, converted try to St Pats to set up a tense and exciting finish.

Inspite of several bouts of pressure at either end, including a couple of drop goal attempts, these two talented sides could not be separated and had to be content with a hard fought point each. Antony Britton, Ben Reynolds and Matthew Lomax were outstanding for Latchford while Craig Wolvine and Richie Burnett also enjoyed fine games. Back to top

16/10/2005 v Leigh Miners Rangers (away)

Leigh Miners Rangers U15 - 18
Latchford Albion Unicorns U15 - 14

Latchford raced into an early 10 point lead as they initially dominated every area of the game. The returning Jack Probert cleverly drew the defence before unleashing Jack Davies for the line. The Unicorns spurned a couple of opportunities until deft handling enabled the impressive Antony Britton to crash over near the posts for a try, which Richard Taylor converted.

Mysteriously, Latchford surrendered the lead to the home side through uncharacteristic errors and hesitancy. The momentum remained with the Leigh outfit into the second half before Matthew Lomax received some reward for his unstinting endeavour as he put the finishing touches to a sweeping movement. A beautiful Watkins pass then released Tom Rigby on an explosive, mazy run inside the full back, apparently for the equalising score. Tom raced across the tryline and, two strides later, the dead ball line, falling victim in the bright morning sun to the World's smallest in-goal area.

It is tempting to dwell on this bizarre Forrest Gump impression and the Latchford inablity to convert their supremacy into points. This would not do justice to the excellent opposition or the fine individual contributions of Taylor, Lomax, Cooper, Britton and Cornelia. Back to top

30/10/2005 v Folly Lane (home)

Latchford Albion Unicorns U15 - 10
Folly Lane U15 - 0

Lacklustre Latchford were made to fight all the way by a determined and dogged Folly Lane. The home side apparently made no attempt to modify their usual free-flowing style and chose to ignore the wet and windy conditions. The result was a Latchford "knock-on-athon".

Time after time the Unicorn defence was called upon after possesion had been gifted to the opposition. Only in the second half did Latchford make use of the ball. Joe Mellor ghosted in after a return from Matthew Stewart to break the deadlock as a no-score draw appeared a real possibility. Mellor then supplied the inside pass for Ashley Cornelia to acrobatically touchdown. Kallum Watkins added the extras against his former club.

This talented team will now realise that there are no 'easy' games in this division. But for the efforts of a small group of players including Britton, Lomax, Mellor and Taylor, a shock defeat could have been a real possibility. Back to top

13/11/2005 v Widnes Moorfield (home)

Latchford Albion Unicorns U15 - 28
Widnes Moorfield U15 - 4

The weather put paid to Latchford's trip to Saddleworth Rangers and so the Albion's next game saw them play host to this season's surprise package, newly-promoted Widnes Moorfield.

An 8-4 half time scoreline left the game interestingly poised and revealed the Unicorn's inability to convert their possesion and field position into points. The quality of the two early Latchford scores merely illustated the potential of the side. Latchford's first try came direct from a scrum as the hard-working loose forward Matt Lomax picked up and offloaded out of the tackle for Joe Mellor to race across the line. After fielding a difficult kick, winger Mike Lee coolly fed Tom Rigby for the centre to scorch in from half way.

A more incisive home side emerged in the second half and further tries to Mellor and Rigby were followed by a well-deserved touchdown for Mike Lee. Tom Mills provided a fitting climax to the match as, much to the delight of his own Junior Fan Club, he crashed over following a Jack Davies break. Kicking boots, like the favoured kicking cone, seemed to have been left elsewhere with only Ashley Cornelia managing any succesful conversions.

In an excellent team effort, John Hill enjoyed a very promising debut while the endeavour of forwards Cooper, Britton, Wolvine, Probert and Pendlebury ensured that the impressive pivots Taylor, Cornelia and Watkins were never short of attacking options Back to top

04/12/2005 v Thatto Heath Crusaders (home)

Latchford Albion Unicorns U15 - 30
Thatto Heath Crusaders U15 - 20

The games against Hindley and Oldham were called off adding to the stop-start feel to the season at this stage. So it was that Latchford welcomed Thatto Heath to Loushers lane. A late Matthew Stewart touchdown ensured that Latchford eventually secured the two points but they were given a real fright by a much-improved Crusaders. Not for the first time this season, Latchford played without any respect for the conditions or the concept of ball retention as possession was surrendered on a regular basis. If frequent use of a word is the criteria for inclusion then, at this rate, it will not be long before the Oxford English Dictionary, the Latchford version, features ?Knockonathon?.

Following a very early Thatto score, Latchford fought back to take a 20-4 half-time lead. Tries were scored by Jack Davies, two, Kallum Watkins and Tom Rigby. In the second half the heroic defence, which had previously ensured that Thatto were unable to take advantage of the Latchford generosity, mysteriously disappeared. Ironically, the scores that kept the Unicorns ahead featured their "dry-weather" skills, but this time they were showcased in the appropriate part of the field, close to the oppositions? line! While Thatto crossed for three well-worked tries, a converted Ashley Cornelia try from a sublime Watkins offload produced some relief before Matthew Stewart finished off a Mellor break.

This Latchford side are very skilful and creative but, if they are to fulfil their considerable potential, they must learn to modify their natural flair to suit the environment. While this was far from a classic performance the continued progress of Antony Britton, John Hill and Ross Pendlebury was very pleasing. Back to top

11/12/2005 v Blackbrook Royals (home) - match abandoned

Latchford Albion Unicorns U15 v Blackbrook Royals U15 Match Abandoned

The sickening sight and sound of Tom Colborn of Blackbrook colliding headfirst with a Loushers Lane upright and the resultant worrying wait for an ambulance ensured the abandonment of this match with 20 minutes remaining. Facing possible tragedy certainly restores a sense of perspective. As Tom lay stricken on the ground, traditional tribalism was abandoned as rivals cooperated to ensure his swift and unobstructed departure. The wait for the ambulance was certainly worthwhile. Moments after the paramedic had laid his hands on Tom he was up on his feet, walking again, albeit not very steadily. This might not be a miracle but it was certainly a big relief.

The early exchanges in the match were dominated by Blackbrook as their powerful runners charged down the slope. In the face of this onslaught Latchford defended heroically and restricted the unbeaten League leaders to an 8 point half-time lead.
A further Blackbrook score forced Latchford to alter their formation. Within moments Mellor and Lomax combined to send Kallum Watson over for a try which Richard Taylor converted. A Latchford penalty 40m from the Blackbrook line did not suggest any danger-until Jack Davies took the ball. Scattering defenders, Jack burst through the defence and into the clear. He raced towards the try line and just grounded the ball before he and the gallant chasing defender, Tom Colborn crashed into the post. Such a shame that this Davies ?wondertry? will be stricken from the records.

Everyone connected with the Latchford Albion Unicorns wishes Tom Colborn a swift and full recovery. Back to top

08/01/2006 v Wigan St Patricks (away)

Wigan St Patricks U15 - 12
Latchford Albion Unicorns U15 - 20

With Joe Mellor away on international duty, Jamie Doxey out of the country and illness/injury putting paid to the services of Jack Davies, Ben Reynolds, Richie Burnett, Tom Mills a long with other absentees, the Albion were only able to call upon 14 available players for this important league fixture at the home of one of the game?s perceived big teams. In a very tough and uncompromising game Latchford refused to be downhearted when St Patricks opened the scoring against the run of play. Their converted try proved to be the only score of the first half.

Shortly after the resumption of play Tom Rigby ran in a trademark long-range effort following good work by Craig Woolvine, Jon Hill and Ashley Cornelia. Whilst the Unicorns were still contemplating their fine score, the Wigan outfit bounced back with another converted try to extend their lead. Sharp work around the ruck from Cornelia and Richard Taylor resulted in well-worked try for Matty Lomax, which was converted by Taylor. A second Rigby try was added to when Hill plunged over. Taylor added the extras to ensure an Albion win.

In the circumstances this was a great team effort. But there were also some individual contributions that deserve mention, such as prop forward Jack Cooper, Daniel Barnett made a very promising debut, ?Rocky? Taylor comfortably slotting in at stand off, loose forward Matty Lomax, the returning Ryan Main and Jack Probert Back to top

15/01/2006 v Leigh Miners Rangers (home)

Latchford Albion Unicorns U15 - 34
Leigh Miners Rangers U15 - 0

Three tries in each half exacting a fitting revenge for the Unicorns against a team who had inflicted one of the two defeats Latchford had suffered all season so far. Rather than the tries, and there were some crackers in this game, the spirit of the side was perhaps best exampled by Kallum Watkins who put in a heroic tackle to deny the flying Leigh fullback from scoring when the game was already done and dusted.

The game was barely five minutes old when Joe Mellor came onto a ball from Ashley Cornelia, burst through the defensive line and rounded the fullback to score. Jack Cooper was next to burst over the line in what was probably his strongest ever perfomance in the claret and gold shirt. Jack Probert completed an intricate passing move when he took a difficult ball and forced his way over in the corner. All three tries were converted by Cornelia to give Latchford an 18 point lead at the break.

Probert resumed the second half where he left off the first when he took a long floating pass from Mellor to score his second try. Jack Davies picked the ball up with seventy yards of the pitch ahead of him. This proved to be no obstacle as he weaved and powered his way over. The tireless Matthew Lomax scored the sixth try after linking up with Mellor to finish a flowing move. Cornelia and Richard Taylor each kicked a goal in this second stanza. The coaches were able to give significant game time to each of the 19-strong squad as they retained the second-place berth in the Premiership. Back to top

05/02/2006 v Crosfields Cobras (home) NWC Cup 1st Rnd

Latchford Albion Unicorns U15 - 36
Crosfields Cobras U15 - 0

School banter in the preceeding week ensured there was always going to be a bit of sparkle to this North West Counties Cup tie that had paired together two local teams who haven't often met in recent years. A sign of how the match was going to transpire came early on when a flowing Unicorn move found Jack Davies who plunged over to open the scoring. Some great yards were gained by penetrating runs typified by Davies and Jack Cooper and helped set up Tom Rigby for his first try in the opposite corner. Joe Mellor then jinked through the Cobras defence to score, which Richard Taylor converted to give Latchford a 14-0 lead at the break.

Latchford had to be on their best behaviour not to react to a mounting penalty count that could quite easily have evened up an otherwise one-sided affair. Whilst the whole Albion squad contributed to a comprehensive victory it should be mentioned that the spirited Crosfield's side kept going throughout and added their part to an entertaining game. Tom Rigby scored another on the left side of the posts to which Taylor added the extras. Ashley Cornelia, who was enjoying an extremely fine game, picked up a loose ball and charged away from the Crosfield's defenders, despite having speedsters in pursuit Cornelia showed a clean pair of heels to out-pace them. Kallum Watkins kicked the goal. Joe Mellor scored his second before combining well with his half back partner and fed an inside pass into Cornelia who completed his brace of tries. Watkins kicked another goal to finish off the scoring. Latchford progressed through to the next round of the cup but perhaps the most pleasing aspect was that this was the second clean sheet in a row, which will help with the remaining league matches to come. Back to top

12/02/2006 v Widnes Moorfield (away)

Widnes Moorfield U15 - 6
Latchford Albion Unicorns U15 - 20

Matthew Lomax grabbed an early try double as he touched down a Mellor kick and then raced over direct from a scrum for a score that Richard Taylor converted. Latchford then relaxed, allowing Moorfield back into the game as they conceded their first try in almost three hours of gametime. This score, which resulted from poor ball control and a rare outbreak of lacklustre tackling, only served as motivation as the Unicorns redoubled their
defensive efforts. Time after time tenacious tackling restricted the powerful Widnes runners to relatively small territorial gains. An interval scoreline of 10-6 illustrated the closeness of the contest.

As Jack Davies plunged over after only a few minutes of the second period there was a sense of relief but the game was certainly not won until Kallum Watkins scored. Kallum's touchdown sealed a superb individual performance at full back as he tormented the opposition with his elusive kick-return running. Taylor added the extras. This was not a day for Latchford's preferred "pretty" expansive style. It was therefore particularly pleasing that in such foul conditions they were able to "get tough and win ugly". There were many fine individual performances in an excellent team effort. The contributions of Ross
Pendlebury, Jamie Doxey, Jon Hill, Antony Britton and Jack Probert were outstanding. Back to top

19/02/2006 v Chorley Panthers (away) NWC Cup 2nd Rnd

Chorley Panthers U15 - 6
Latchford Albion Unicorns U15 - 38

Despite appearing to sail through to the quarter-final stage of the North West Counties' Cup this was rather a Jekyl and Hyde performance. There was the now customary champagne attacking flair interspersed with periods of uncharacterstic lethargy leading to horrendous handling errors. Latchford's solid defence, exemplified by Jamie Doxey, Ryan Main and Jack Cooper restrictricted the unwilting opposition's scoring chances to a minimum. Three unconverted tries from Matt Lomax, Ben Reynolds and Ashley Cornelia let Latchford leave the field at half time with a 12-0 lead.

The second period saw further scores from Tom Rigby, Kallum Watkins with two, Jack Davies and Anthony Britton, plus three conversions from the boot of Richard Taylor. The never-say-die attitude of Chorley was rewarded with a fine interception try at the end but Latchford finished as winners 38-6. The team will have to continue to apply themselves if they are to reach the final as they have done on two previous occasions. Back to top

26/02/2006 v Hindley (home)

Latchford Albion Unicorns U15 60
Hindley U15 0

Some days everything a team attempts comes off. For this Latchford outfit, this was certainly one of those days. From the excellent Hindley kick off deep into the Latchford in-goal area Jack Davies slipped, got up, was nearly tackled and got up again before battering his way over the line to ensure that the Unicorns retained possession. Four tackles later Tom Rigby touched down for the first of a scorching hat-trick

For the first 20 minutes the visitors were starved of the ball as Latchford forced repeat sets or scored with each possession. When Hindley did attack, they were met by a hungry, fresh, aggressive defence. That there were eight different try scorers throughout the game provides a measure of the unselfishness of the Unicorns. That all the scorers apart from one were backs illustrates the expansiveness of their offence.

Matthew Lomax, the solitary forward on the try list, crossed twice while Ben Reynolds, Ashley Cornelia, Mike Lee, Joe Mellor, Matthew Stewart and Kallum Watkins also touched down. Richard Taylor added 5 goals while Cornelia weighed in with 3. The impressive go-forward provided by the explosive winger, Jack Davies and the Latchford forwards, in particular Hill, Cooper, Britton, Pendlebury, Main, Wolvine and Probert ensured that hooker, Taylor and half backs Cornelia and Mellor were able to direct operations effectively.

Encouraged to keep the ball alive, Latchford produced a passage of play which incorporated 27 passes to provide a memorable highlight. However, if Jack Davies had been tackled in the in-goal and this performance had begun with a drop out, things may have turned out differently. Who knows? Back to top

12/03/2006 v Wigan St Patrick's (home) NWC Cup quarter final

Latchford Albion Unicorns U15 - 16
Wigan St Patricks U15 - 12

It is tempting to report that Latchford may have won this NW Counties Quarter Final more comfortably if they had sometimes curbed their footballing instincts and adopted a more conservative style of play. It is also tempting to suggest that, on a day such as this, everyone would have been more comfortable if they had stayed indoors in front of the fire.
Rugby League may be many things but it is certainly not "comfortable".

There were certainly plenty of errors and youthful niaivety, but most spectators would probably agree that these two sets of fine players did not have any right to produce a game as enthralling as that witnessed today on the Arctic plains of Loushers Lane. The home team had the early advantage of the slope and following blizzard and seemed determined to make the most of it with the powerful Jack Cooper causing plenty of problems with his offloads. The deadlock was soon broken as Joe Mellor kicked ahead and skated 40 metres to touchdown. Shortly after, Ashley Cornelia slid a shrewd grubber into the in-goal area for Mike Lee to pounce. Mellor's conversion stretched the lead to 10 points.

Latchford were unable to add any further first half scores as a number of difficult half-chances were spurned. A massive defensive effort from the Unicorns contained and frustrated the powerful St Pats forwards and it was therefore disappointing that with the very last play of the first half a single missed tackle enabled last year's National Cup Winners to score a converted try.

The second half of this contest was not one for the faint-hearted. Big hits frequently jolted the ball free and the error count soared as fatigue, and in some cases frostbite, set in. The unyielding attitude of Matthew Lomax characterised all that was good about this contest and it was entirely appropriate that he should crash over the line for an unstoppable score which, with the Cornelia conversion, restored Latchford's breathing
space. St Pats quickly replied with a score of their own to ensure a nerve-wracking finish and a very long final six minutes.

This was a team effort, on and off the field, in every sense of the word. The entire squad of Watkins, Lee, Rigby, Probert, Davies, Mellor, Cornelia, Cooper, Hill, Britton, Reynolds, Pendlebury, Lomax, Main, Wolvine, Doxie, Stewart and Barnett should all take pride in ensuring passage to the NW Counties semi-final. Back to top

19/03/2006 v Saddleworth Rangers (home)

Latchford Albion Unicorns U15 - 52
Saddleworth Rangers U15 - 8

With so many cancelled games this season and insufficient time left to fulfil all fixtures it was decreed this game should be a four-pointer to cover both the home and away games between these two teams. In this Premier Division clash the relative "Bantams" of Latchford used their speed, footwork and handling skills to frustrate their heavyweight opponents.

An early try from Kallum Watkins helped to settle homeside nerves before Tom Rigby revealed previously hidden talents as his subtle headed knockdown created the first of Mike Lee's two scores. Aggressive Unicorn defence contained much of the muscular Saddleworth attack and a forced pass was picked off by Jack Davies, who raced the length of the field for a spectacular touchdown. A powerful, but slightly shorter, scoring run from Jon Hill consolidated a strong start for the home side. Saddleworth were soon on the scoreboard through a penalty kick and converted try. The visitors were provided with further encouragement as "Perpetual Motion" Matt Lomax was banished to the sin bin before a Joe Mellor solo effort completed the first half scoring.

Further second half tries from Tom Rigby, who grabbed a high-speed double, Kallum Watkins and Ashley Cornelia, along with 3 coversions apiece for Watkins and Cornelia ensured a winning margin that cruelly misrepresented the unstinting efforts of the Saddleworth outfit. Selfless teamwork and tireless defence undoubtedly provided the foundation for this Latchford success. However, on an individual level the continued improvement of Ryan Main, Jamie Doxie, Matthew Stewart, Danny Barnett and Tom Mills is very encouraging as is the contribution of "Unsung heroes" Jack Probert, Ben Reynolds, Antony Britton, Ross Pendlebury and Craig Wolvine. Back to top

26/03/2006 v Orrell St James' (away)

Orrell St James U15 - 18
Latchford Albion Unicorns U15 - 0

18-nil is the score used to signify a conceded match. Considering recent Latchford results, it might be tempting to suggest that this scoreline is oddly appropriate as the defeated side had failed to turn up. This could not be further from the truth! Latchford have rarely played, and NEVER defended, better than they did today. The Unicorns should take great encouragement from the resounding cheers of relief emitted by the home supporters as the final whistle sounded. Orrell were superb and Latchford were not far behind.

On a pitch more suited to agricultural than sporting pursuits the heavy duty Orrell outfit, complete with their turbo-diesel props, were perhaps better equipped for the conditions than the Latchford lightweights. Hampered by an early inability to retain possession, Latchford were forced to defend heroically. Kallum Watkins produced a 'miracle tackle' to prevent an Orrell forward from grounding the ball, while Joe Mellor, Matt Lomax, Ross Pendlebury, Jack Probert and Richard Taylor led the defensive rearguard effort.

Jack Davies bravely ignored injury for the Latchford cause and his muscular running, along with Tom Rigby's explosive pace and Mike Lee's footwork, provided a constant threat. The contest remained scoreless until well into the second half. Once their line had been breached, Latchford were forced to attack without caution. Mellor was hauled down inches short after bursting onto a superb Cornelia cut-out pass and clever interplay between Taylor and Rigby also took them close. There was an inevitability, but no disgrace, as Orrell grabbed two further scores.

The perfomance from Ryan Main was a revelation, prompted by Ashley Cornelia and supported by Jon Hill, Ben Reynolds and Craig Wolvine, he carted the ball forward with aggression and purpose. The effort and commitment of these Unicorns cannot be questioned. If the lessons of this defeat can be used to produce a 'smarter' performance then there is no reason why this talented set of players should not fulfil their considerable potential Back to top

02/04/2006 v Oldham St Anne's (home) NWC Cup semi final

Latchford Albion Unicorns U15 - 22
Oldham St Annes U15 - 8

Latchford fought their way through to the final of the NW Counties Cup following a bruising, hormone-fuelled encounter with their visitors from Oldham. It is the third time in four seasons that this team has reached the NWC Finals. This particular game was a real "Jeckyll and Hyde" performance from the Unicorns. A frustrating inability to retain possession was interspersed with the sublime handling skills that resulted in their four well-worked tries. The foundation for the Latchford victory was laid by their uncompromising and aggressive defence which ensured that their frequent turnovers went mainly unpunished.

The early exchanges produced a Ding-Dong scoring sequence. A Tom Rigby break produced the first try as Joe Mellor stepped inside the covering defence. Oldham replied when the home side were unable to defuse a deft chip kick, before a further raid down the left featuring Rigby and Cornelia allowed Rocky Taylor to touch down. Cornelia added the extras. The Latchford lead was then cut to 2 points as Oldham scooted through sleepy marker defence.

As the interval approached the Unicorns enjoyed a game-breaking purple patch. Mellor offloaded in the tackle for Kallum Watkins to dive over for a try, which Cornelia converted. As Oldham restarted the game, the official kindly informed the players that 2 tackles remained before the interval. Jack Probert was already enjoying his most impressive outing in Latchford colours when he fielded the ball and set off down the field. Defenders were stepped, brushed aside and mesmerised as he eventually released Mellor on a 50m race to the posts, ensuring that the Watkins conversion remained a formality.

The second half was scoreless but certainly not without incident. Perpetual motion man, Matthew Lomax, was forced to depart with a leg injury, joining the lengthening pre-match casualty list. A coach - fortunately one from the visitors, this time - was banished to the carpark. Ross Pendlebury, whose versatility is proving almost as valuable as his workrate, left the field bloodied but undeterred following an outbreak of what is popularly termed "Handbags". Mellor survived the "Handbags" only to fall victim to cramp. Faced with this kind of adversity the contributions of the whole squad cannot be underestimated. Ryan Main continues to improve at a meteoric rate while the decision to relocate Probert to the pack has already been vindicated.

There are only so many variations available to summarise a performance. In school report parlance: 10/10 for effort. 8/10 for creativity. 4/10 for ball control. Back to top

23/04/2006 v Folly Lane (away)

Folly Lane U15 - 18
Latchford Albion Unicorns U15 - 28

Latchford were woefully short of their own high standards in this contest as the eventual winning margin flattered the visitors. The expansive style of this team will inevitably lead to some handling errors, but today's inablility to control the ball in contact was bizarre. The defensive concerns were even greater with "bread and butter" tackles missed, and in some cases not even attempted.

In defence of this non-defence the build up to the game failed to replicate the usual pre-match routine of these Unicorns. The thorough team warm up was decimated as half the team were still taking advantage of a Mark Thatcheresque short cut as their colleagues contemplated their navels in the changing room. This side has enjoyed a number of "Magical Mystery Tours" but today they could not even get lost together.

Although Tom Rigby scored a well-taken hat-trick and Kallum Watkins and Ross Pendlebury also touched down, the attacking highlight was the 80m effort from Jack Probert direct from a scrum. Jamie Doxey tackled fearlessly and played with refreshing enthusiasm while the powerful running of Jack Davies was almost unstoppable on his return from injury. Half backs Ashley Cornelia and Joe Mellor were central to much of the team's attacking play and responsible for rather too much of its defence. Watkins converted twice.

This unfulfilling victory has, however, consolidated the top three position of the side in the NWC Premier League and may yet provide the type of learning experience necessary for its continued progression Back to top

30/04/2006 v Oldham St Anne's (away)

Oldham St Annes U15 - 28
Latchford Albion Unicorns U15 - 22

Whenever Latchford encounter the muscular Oldham St Anne's at home, the biggest playing area at their disposal is chosen as the battlefield. Today was payback time and this game was played on a pitch which was as firm and solid as a table top but not as wide. Latchford were without the services of several forwards but it was the metaphorical absence of some of the players named on the teamsheet that ensured that the hungrier home side were able to savour a well-deserved victory.

To the neutral observer (although the scale of the after-match celebrations suggested that not many of those were present) this was undoubtedly an entertaining, end-to-end contest in which the result was in doubt until the final minutes. As a result of a blow to the head, Jack Davies, who scorched in for the opening try, was unable to recall much of the game. Never before has a player been envied so much by the coaching staff!

Latchford have set high standards and therefore have the onerous task of maintaining them. A solid defence has provided the basis for much of this season's success and defending is often described as the ultimate team activity. Today the team togetherness and the individual selflessness, which has characterised these Unicorns was largely absent with the result that five tries were conceded.

It is certainly not all doom and gloom and it is hoped that Joe Mellor will rarely again score such an exciting hat-trick and still finish on the losing side. Every Latchford player enjoyed several good moments. In particular, Matthew Stewart, Tom Rigby, Ross Pendlebury, Mike Lee and Kallum Watkins played particularly strongly while the effervescent Jamie Doxey continues to improve and impress. Disappointing though this performance may be, there is probably not that much wrong that it could not be quickly rectified by the reintroduction of the four absent representative packmen. Back to top

23/05/2006 v Blackbrook Royals (NWC Cup Final & league game)

Latchford Albion Unicorns U15 18
Blackbrook Royals U15 16

A wind swept Golborne Parkside ground was the venue for this pulsating North West Counties final. The much improved Latchford had never previously beaten Blackbrook in any competition but any lingering self doubt vanished after 5 minutes as Ashley Cornelia continued in his current rich vein of form to dummy his way over the line. Richard Taylor landed a difficult conversion. Following excellent interplay with Matthew Lomax, Joe Mellor raced 40 metres to post a second converted try.

Defensive heroics from the Unicorns ensured that the powerful Blackbrook forwards were contained throughout the first half. Such was the ferocity of these exchanges that the excellent Hill, Pendlebury, Lomax, Mills and Cooper all required treatment. Main, Britton, Rigby, Reynolds, Doxey and Wolvine were also at the top of their games while the ?back three? of Watkins, Lee and Davies provided a constant attacking threat whenever they were in possession.

With a strong following wind and favourable slope Blackbrook proved an even tougher proposition after the interval. Their constant pressure soon led to 2 tries but, crucially, one of these was unconverted. Latchford immediately regrouped and, prompted by their half-backs, Mellor and Cornelia and their shrewd tactical kicking, laid siege to the opposition try line. Successive attacking sets allowed Cornelia to fashion a gap for Antony Britton to power over close to the posts. Taylor added the extras.

The Unicorns found themselves on the receiving end of a bizarre ?penaltyathon? and it was no surprise when Blackbrook eventually crossed the line, reducing the margin to a mere 2 points and ensuring an almost unbearably tense finale. A desperate Blackbrook attack which finished with a knock-on convinced Latchford that the cup was theirs. From the resultant scrum, a long pass from Mellor sent Tom Rigby on an unopposed dash to the line. The understandable jubilation proved short lived as the flying centre was brought back for a forward pass and Blackbrook were given a final opportunity to snatch the game, prompting outrageous, misplaced suggestions that the cup had already been engraved. Only when a miraculous tackle from Mike Lee frustrated the last opposition onslaught were this fine team able to savour their first silverware. Ryan Main was also relieved that the victory provided 2 league points.

The NW Counties rules sadly prevented the Unicorns from introducing all their squad into the action. The contribution of Danny Barnett and Matthew Stewart, and the injured Jack Probert, to this triumph should not be underestimated.

The acquisition of a trophy is obviously 'cause for celebration but the real achievement of Latchford Albion Unicorns U15 in 2005/06 is their constant improvement and their unstinting teamwork. Suggestions that the team does not possess any stars are inaccurate. The team possesses many star performers who always put the team first and rarely behave like Prima Donnas. Long may this continue. Back to top