Latchford Albion Unicorns U12 - 16
Leigh Miners Rangers U12 - 4

New season, new rules and great new attitude from the under 12s towards the game of rugby. This was the first game played at 13 aside rules, all be it a friendly - if there is such a thing in rugby. The game was played at a fast, hard tempo with the unicorns' defensive line only being broke on one occasion. The extra fitness sessions throughout the summer seem to have paid off as the unicorns seemed a lot sharper towards the end of the game always looking for work.

Defensively the unicorns were out of this world as they seemed to tackle anything that move in there direction sometimes players without the ball, Ashley Cox, Jake Slydell, Chris Hunt and Callum Wright tackled endlessly throughout but it was David Lea who top the tackle count today with his copy book technique. In attack the unicorns went forward in numbers with power and pace bamboozling the miners defence at times and thier fast play the balls kept miners on a back foot at times.

David Lea scored the only points of the first have out pacing any defenders, Jack Morgan got a brace in the second half from close range dodging and weaving past tacklers and Declan Patton scored an excellent solo try at the end of play and also he earned himself man of the match award. All the conversions were missed but on target so they will come with more power in the kicks. Overall a great 1st game from the unicorns who are all awaiting the start of the new season - BRING IT ON

Team
Cox, Cross, Hunt, Johnson, Lea, Morgan, Patton, Reid, Robertson, Savelio, Slydell, Sullivan, Wharton, Wilkinson, Williams, Wright Back to top

24/09/2006 v Ryland Sharks (home)

Latchford Albion Unicorns U12 - 10
Rylands Sharks U12 - 8

What an outstanding derby match played during a tropical rainstorm today. Both sets of players ran hard, tackled hard and even got the odd pass away during the downpour. Both teams' tacking throughout the game was unreal and with all the ego and passion that goes with a local derby match the game was played at high tempo with lots of testosterone on show.

The forward pack of Wright, Savelio, Cox and Slydell laid a good platform for Sullivan and Patton to direct the Unicorns' attack but unfortunately it was that last touch, last pass that either went to ground, the kick chase saw players off side. This kept the game open.
Defensively the Unicorns have stepped up a gear from last season with all the players very rarely missing a tackle.

Wilkinson and Sullivan scored a try apiece with Hunt kicking a goal. Savelio, Patton, Wharton and Hunt were outstanding in attack with Slydell, Cox and Wright exceptional in defence

Team
Burgess, Cox, Patton, Hunt, Johnson, Lea, Morgan, Reid, Robertson, Savelio, Slydell, Sullivan, Wharton, Wilkinson, Wright Back to top

01/10/2006 v Crosfields Cobras (home)

Latchford Albion Unicorns U12 - 44
Crosfields Cobras U12 - 0

The Unicorns were too fast, too strong for the developing, but vastly improving, Crosfields team today. The Unicorns speed around the play the ball and direction of the passing game proved to be the big difference between the local rivals. This, combined with a defensive line that was fast and controlled the game, always kept the Cobras on a back foot.

Man of the match was Ashley Cox whose unselfish attitude and gamesmanship towards today's clash in attack and defence gained himself great praise from the coaching staff and his team mates both during and after the final whistle. He also scored two tries and two more ruled out. Tackle machine, Callum Wright was again on fire in defence, tackling relentlessly throughout the game in a forceful but controlled manner. Jack Johnson also put in a monster effort in defence. The team's eagerness to work for one another in defence was an immense plus for them and they forced several errors from the Cobras' attack. Whilst attacking in the first half the Unicorns put into place the week's training plan, which resulted in a great display of team work with the forwards driving up, wing centres scooting and then fast hands along the line resulting in tries.

Michael Wharton returned kick after kick from the Cobras gained valuable metres up the field providing a great platform for them to work from. Declan Patton and Matthew Wilkinson directed the attack left and right, but always forward putting David Lea, Jack Morgan and Andre Savelio through holes in the Cobra's defence. A great first game back from injury from James Williams capping it off with a well taken try. Other try scorers were Ashley Cox 2, Declan Patton 2, David Lea 2, Jack Morgan and Callum Wright. Goals came from Declan Patton, Chris Hunt, Alex Robertson and Michael Wharton

Team
Cox, Cross, Patton, Hunt, Johnson, Lea, Morgan, Reid, Robertson, Savelio, Sullivan, Wharton, Wilkinson, Williams, Wright Back to top

08/10/2006 v Thatto heath Crusaders (home)

Latchford Albion Unicorns U12 - 26
Thatto Heath Crusaders U12 - 12

Yet another entertaining game was on show from the under 12s who seem to be relishing the new rules this year. With a excellent speed of line, solid defensive shape, and an attacking go forward that was immense, but with greater tests to come in this season's games the unicorns will have to push more and more in training to attain their own team and individuals goals.

Yet again Callum Wright was exceptional in defence hitting any moving object in his path, winning the floor and ready to go again, outstanding effort again today, but it wasn't a one man show with Andrea Savelio, David Lea, Jake Slydell and Declan Patton putting in gladitorial efforts through out the game in defense.

Attacking the unicorns showed that they don't just have power and pace but and excellent kicking game with Declan Patton and Matthew Wilkinson putting kicks into the opposition 10 yard line with pin point accuracy as chasing horde of David Lea, Chris Hunt, Jack Johnson and Jack Morgan couldn't help but score a few times. The speed of passing between Declan Patton and Liam Sullivan directing the attacking lines of run from Ashley Cox, Jake Slydell and Callum Wright are starting to create problems to the opposition?s tacklers through out. Andrea Savelio and David Lea were a defensive nightmare today with their scoots, powerful runs from around the rook and total aggression in attack what a hand full they were. Mickey Wharton and Chris Hunt had enormous games today again showing that these two boys are developing game on game into solid members of the unicorns squad in there new ever changing positions.

Congratulations to David Lea and Jake Slydell who celebrated their 50th and 100th Latchford appearances respectively

Tries: Ashley Cox, Declan Patton, Chris Hunt , David Lea, Calum Wright.
Goals: Declan Patton, Chris Hunt, Liam Sullivan

Team,
Burgess, Cox, Cross, Patton, Hunt, Johnson, Lea, Morgan, Reid, Robertson, Savelio, Slydell, Sullivan, Wharton, Wilkinson, Wright Back to top

15/10/2006 v Pilkington Recs Cougars (away)

Pilks Recs Cougars U12 - 12
Latchford Albion Unicorns U12 - 8

The Unicorns out-muscled the usually dominant Cougars side today, giving them a wake up call, but couldn't capitalise and finish off the game to take the spoils. The strong tackling technique on show from the Unicorns was backed up with blockbusting power drives, but these was negated by various poor decisions and a lack of control in the middle. The Unicorns let in an early try from the first scrum of the game with a Cougar player going the full length after some poor tackling. With a few harsh vocal words to them all, the players rallied together put the clash to the Cougars' hit ups, tackling anything that came at them throughout the remainder of game.

The whole forward pack of Cox, Wright, Slydell, Savelio and Lea were outstanding prodding the Cougar line on every drive asking questions. The combination of Patton's running style drawing the defenders to him to put Cox through gaps to power over was successful on two occasions and almost a third on Cox's 50th appearance today.

Again the scooting from dummy half from Johnson, Hunt and Wharton kept the opposition on a back foot allowing Sullivan and Patton to direct the rampaging Unicorns.
The Unicorns line stayed solid the whole time during the game with the forward pack showing the way to tackle, not allowing the Cougars to spread the ball wide to their speedsters and giving the backs a rest in defense.

Savelio was the outstanding player of the match but he was pushed all the way by Cox, Patton, Wright, Lea and Slydell. Take the attitude from this game forward for the rest of the season and the under 12s won't go too far short of the odd piece of glory

Team:
Ashley Cox, Liam Cross, Declan Patton, Chris Hunt, Jack Johnson, David Lea, Daniel Reid, Alex Robertson, Andrea Savelio, Jake Slydell, Liam Sullivan, Michael Wharton, Matthew Wilkinson, James Williams, Callum Wright Back to top

22/10/2006 v Westhoughton Lions (away) Lancs Cup 2nd Rnd

Westhoughton Lions U12 - 4
Latchford Albion Unicorns U12 - 54

Playing in their first ever Lancashire Cup game the Unicorns took a while to kick into gear and start performing. The Lions never stopped competing hard, but they were always up against the fight with the Unicorns' bigger squad rotation proved too much for the ten players of Westhoughton who ran out of steam later on in the game.

The Unicorns poor start allowed Westhoughton to outpace them down the flanks and score first. The Unicorns replied well with Jack Johnson 2 and Declan Patton scoring to take a 12-4 lead to the break. The Unicorns' team got a severe roasting at half time from the coaching staff who pointed out major areas for improvement in the second half. Thankfully they took this on board and started to get back to a more direct style of play.
Declan Patton controlled the direction putting Callum Wright, Andrea Savelio and Ashley Cox through the gaps. however, it was Jake Slydell who took the man of the match award for his tireless running on and off the ball backing up anyone's break and being rewarded with two well-taken tries. James Johnson put on an excellent show on what was his first outing for the under 12s this season and also Danny Reid put in a much improved display. During the second half the Unicorns proved to be more dominant and crossed the line with ease, scoring another 6 times. In defence the Unicorns were stretched out wide and with only playing 10 aside this spoilt the usually solid team's defensive shape today. David Lea and Jake Morgan put in monster defensive efforts during the game tackling all over the pitch.

Tries: Jake Slydel 2, Jack Johnson 2, Declan Patton, Jack Morgan, Andrea Savelio, Liam Sullivan, Michael Wharton, Matthew Wilkinson, Callum Wright.

Goals: Declan Patton, Jack Morgan, Jake Slydel, Callun Wright

Jack Morgan's conversion and try took him to 200 points for the club

Team
Cox, Cross, Patton, Hunt, Johnson ,James Johnson, Lea, Morgan, Reid, Robertson, Savelio, Slydell, Sullivan, Wharton, Wilkinson, Williams, Wright. Back to top

29/10/2006 v Pilkington Recs Pumas (away)

Pilkington Recs Pumas U12 - 14
Latchford Albion Unicorns U12 - 10

An exceptional game of junior rugby was on display from both teams today; with the Unicorns play selection not always the best one to choose today. As these two teams have been drawn to play each other again in the Lancashire cup tin the very next match, the fixture next weekend wouldn't go a miss at the theatre of dreams ground if today's "battle royal" was anything to go by.

As per usual the Unicorns started slooooowly allowing the pace of Pilks' wide men to beat them in a foot race on the right hand side. This was the only way through the Unicorn?s otherwise solid defence other than one good kick-chase with a fortunate bounce. David Lea, Jake Slydell and Andrea Savilio worked like Trojans in defence with Jack Johnson and Alex Robertson also putting in solid one-on-one tackles when it counted.

The 'mighty atom', Liam Sullivan, turned in his best performance of the season so far, directing the attack and putting in some wonderful kicks. Jack Johnson scored from one of them. Michael Wharton moved from fullback to loose forward and showed the coaches how much of a multi-talented player he is; scooting runs and excellent off loading in attack proved to be a vital strike weapon today.

Callum Wright will have to put himself back on charge after his colossal individual effort with 22 hit ups, 4 off loads and 16 tackles, an outstanding display again from him. The dummy halves of James Williams and Matthew Wilkinson gave first-rate service throughout the match allowing the Unicorns to attack with power and pace down the middle, off loading to players backing up and keeping the ball alive on last tackle today this was good to see.

Jack Morgan capped off another solid display with a well-taken try in the second half. Chris Hunt also played out of position and put on a great show stepping and weaving in attack, but the game was the "little (Sully) and large (Andrea) show" with both players putting in exceptional performances. This is not to say the rest of the squad was any less immense today

Tries: - Jack Morgan, Jack Johnson
Goal: - Matthew Wilkinson

Team: -
Cross, Hunt, Johnson, Lea, Morgan, Reid, Robertson, Savelio, Slydell, Sullivan, Wharton, Wilkinson, Williams, Wright Back to top

05/11/2006 v Pilkington Recs Pumas (home) Lancs Cup 3rd Rnd

Latchford Albion Unicorns U12 - 8
Pilkington Recs Pumas U12 - 14

Ground hog day as this result was the same 7 days earlier against the same team.
The go forward from the unicorns was excellent today, but the inability to spread the ball, through hands along the line was the unicorn's downfall. Additionally not one player was able to take control and boss others around the park, which allowed players to get in the wrong positions, at the wrong time and take the wrong option. So back to the drawing board for the next few training sessions on this under 12's learning curve of a season.

The running from dummy half was fast and strong from the unicorns with Patton, Wharton and Williams laying a good platform for the powerful runners of Wright, Savelio and Sullivan to take the unicorns forward. Sullivan opened the scoring with a well taken try, from a great little chip and catch from Wilkinson passing onto him. Lea scored an excellent try from the base of the scrum to out pace any chasing defenders. The defense was good today but the line wasn?t as solid as in previous weeks with Lea, Johnson, Cox solid on one side Morgan, Savelio and Slydell on the other.

Mr C Tamou refereed the game exceptionally well throughout. Good luck to Pilks Pumas in the next round when they play host to Ryland Sharks

Tries
Liam Sullivan, David Lea

Team
Ashley Cox, Liam Cross, Declan Patton, Chris Hunt, Jack Johnson, David Lea,
Jack Morgan, Daniel Reid, Alex Robertson, Andrea Savelio, Jake Slydell, Liam Sullivan,
Michel Wharton, Matthew Wilkinson, James Williams, Callum Wright Back to top

12/11/2006 v Wigan St Jude's (home)

Latchford Albion Unicorns U12 - 8
Wigan St Judes U12 - 16

Another great encounter of junior rugby, between two evenly match sides. The unicorns scored two quick tries only to have them cancelled out for one thing or another, which sunk the boy's hopes in the first half. Savelio, Sullivan and Patton were giving the St Judes defenders problems throughout the first half, but the visitors still scored two unconverted ties to take a 8-0 half time lead.

After the break the unicorns seemed to play faster, harder and with a bit more direction against the Judes tackling army. But it was Judes who scored a good try. An excellent kick under pressure from Patton, was caught and finished off by Slydell by to the uprights, to give Patton an easier conversion for a change. The unicorns kept up the pressure, gaining the upper hand with every run. Morgan, Lea and Sullivan providing the defensive line again and again. It was of yet another kick that allowed the unicorns to score out wide with Johnson scoring. Judes scored on the last play of the game.

Savelio, Slydell and Robertson were outstanding in defence, but it was Cox making 21 tackles playing at prop who gained him the man of the match award with Robertson having his best game todate for the unicorns. This game emphasized the need for daylight training for the under 12s as the passing game was nil, and the ability to pass and then back up was nil. So less work on fitness and more on game awareness will be delivered in the coming weeks.

Team
Ashley Cox, Liam Cross, Declan Patton, Jack Johnson, David Lea, Jack Morgan, Daniel Reid, Alex Robertson, Andrea Savelio, Jake Slydel, Liam Sullivan, Micheal Wharton, Matthew Wilkinson, James Williams, Back to top

19/11/2006 v Folly Lane (away)

Folly Lane U12 - 0
Latchford Albion Unicorns U12 - 18

The pre-match talk amongst the Unicorn players was all about the saying "Defense wins Games", and how the opposition wasn't to score today. However, talk is cheap and it took excellent team performance to make those words fulsome.

The Unicorns dominated from the kick off with powerful running from the exceptional pack of forwards including Cox, Reid, Savelio, Wright, Slydell and Williams. Even so they were unable to get across the white wash (if there was one!). The rampaging forwards worked nonstop, but they were directed forward by little and large (Sullivan and Wilkinson) who both had their best game of the season so far by simply controlling the direction of the attacking unicorns. The centre/wing partnerships of (farmer Giles) Lea and Robertson with Morgan and Hunt were faultless in defence and, when they were required to run the ball in, they did so with power and so much pace they asked questions from the defending Folly players. Wharton had another outstanding game at fullback returning kick after kick safely.

With a big penalty count against, the unicorns had to defend for a countless number of defensive sets, but the line held strong throughout, again tackle machine Wright put in a huge amount of hits but he was helped out by, Cox, Patton, Savelio and Slydell. However, today's defensive high point was Reid's effort as he got into double figures and was tackling every time around the legs, one on one. Wilkinson scored a Cunningham-style try from close range, which he converted. Popeye - sorry Patton - was again exceptional all the way through the game capping of a first-rate effort with a well judged kick down the middle to out pace anyone to score under the post, Wilkinson converted. The biggest cheer came when Savelio broke the line to race 60 yards through the centre of the field to be just caught near the line, offloaded to Wright who pass onto Reid who scored his first try off the year out wide. Patton converted the try from just inside the touchline an outstanding conversion.

Team
Cox, Patton, Hunt, Lea, Morgan, Reid, Robertson, Savelio, Slydell, Sullivan, Wharton, Wilkinson, Williams, Wright Back to top

07/01/2007 v Blackbrook Royals (away)

Blackbrook Royals U12 - 16
Latchford Albion Unicorns U12 -10

This was the Unicorns first game for 7 weeks and it showed sometimes, as the match fitness wasn't to hand. Defensively the Unicorns showed great team spirit even when under pressure from influences out of their control, as most of the game provide to be 'out of their control'. Governed by a "Ferguson" watch the game went on 'til a result was favourable. But another great Under 12s display from to determined sides.
Debutee Chris Ashbrook put in an outstanding first appearance for the Unicorns attacking at pace along the flanks and tackling unbelievably anything that approach his area. But it was Ashley Cox who was the exceptional standout performer today; great inter-passing between Callum and himself down the left eventually saw Callum Wright put the after burners on to score, Declan Patton Converted. Second half Ashley powered onto a excellent pace from Liam Cross to score out wide, but it was his defensive hits that gain him the accolade today.

Jake Slydell, Jack Johnson and Callum Wright put in colossal efforts in defence today, putting in tackle after tackle HARD and solid throughout sometimes not to the liking of the home support. Chris Hunt and Mickey Wharton inter changed throughout the game at full back today, both are worthy of a mention for the high ball?s they both took again and again under pressure, returning them and gaining valuable yards up the field each player wanting the number 1 shirt for themselves.

More vision is still required in the direction of the attack, but today's defensive effort and team's unification can't be faulted, only praised highly.

Tries: Ashley Cox, Callum Wright
Goals: Declan Patton

Team:
Ashbrook, Cox, Cross, Hunt, Johnson, Lea, Patton, Reid, Robertson, Savelio, Slydell, Sullivan, Wharton, Wilkinson, Williams, Wright Back to top

21/01/2007 v Shevington Sharks (home) NWC Cup 1st Rnd

Latchford Albion Unicorns U12 - 28
Shevington Sharks U12 - 4

The Unicorns started very strongly with their fast play-the-balls and fast running style.
Shevington efforts to hold out the Unicorns was great until James Williams went in from dummy half; only to have it disallowed (misunderstanding on pitch markings, but a great effort though). It wasn't long before the unicorns were putting pressure back on the shark's line, a well position kick was misjudge by the fullback and with the chasing pack of Lea, Hunt , and Wharton. It was a foot race to see who would score it, Mickey Wharton did, and Wilkinson converted. Straight from the restart the unicorns tackle and tackle not allowing Shevington out of there half. From a tap penalty a move (first time for everything) was put on and executed perfectly with Callum Wright just being held up on the line, the next play saw a miss timed pass from the unicorns, which the Shevington fullback caught the ball race the full length of the field out pacing the unicorns chasing defenders, but the chasing defenders kept the full back out wide making the kick more difficult.
Slydell, Reid, Cox, and Wright drove the ball in well up the field. It was from another set play that Sullivan called .The move again executed faultlessly with Ashley (Rocky) Cox storming onto the ball to power over to score a great try, Wilkinson converted.
The unicorns tackle time after time keeping the Sharks back in their own halves. Excellent passing along the line was rewarded by David Lea scoring out wide at the end of the first half.

The call at half time was control, complete and finish off this was how the Unicorns started the second half straight from the off with Declan Patton scoring his first of 2 tries both times he drew the defender , did a show and go, and he went on to score.
Danny Reid got on the score sheet with a Cunningham style try, in which he out muscled the defenders too the line.

Defensively the unicorns as a team were very strong and physical today with Patton, Lea, and Wright all getting in to double figures, Wharton?s remarkable one on one taking, stopping 2 curtain tries deservedly meads mentioning. On the attacking front Cox, Reid, Wright and Johnson made great meters up the field, but today Jake Slydell was picked out by the opposition and home coaching staff for his outstanding efforts in the defensive line tackling endlessly and for taking the ball forward time and time again gaining valuable meters for his team. On one occasion he broke through the defensive line out pacing any defenders only to stopped on the try line. Johnson scooted in only to have to ball ripped one on one.

An exceptional 'Whole Team' Effort from the unicorns today 1 to 19 of you worked for each other ,backing each other up when required. And to crown off this game was the start off Callum Shaw and Scott Hackett unicorns playing careers both making contributions in this North West Counties cup match.

Tries - Declan Patton 2, David Lea, Mickey Wharton, Ashley Cox, Danny Reid
Goals - Matthew Wilkinson 2,

Team
Ashbrook, Cox, Cross, Patton, Hunt, Johnson, Johnson J, Lea, Morgan, Reid, Robertson, Slydell, Sullivan, Wharton, Wilkinson, Williams, Wright, Hackett, Shaw. Back to top

28/01/2007 v Saddleworth Rangers (home)

Latchford Albion Unicorns U12 - 10
Saddleworth Rangers U12 - 14

Yet again another top encounter between two equal determined sides at under 12 level, keeping the crowds entertain throughout this well balanced game, but again the unicorns took too long to kick into top gear and start performing like they have done pre the Christmas break. The second half showed that with the correct mindset and teamwork how dangerous the TEAM can be.

Ashley Cox, Jake Slydell, and Callum Wright were on fire in attack driving the ball in time after time creating problems for the Saddleworth defence which also was outstanding today, these players were directed up and down the field by the ever eager Declan Patton who had another solid game for his team, scoring an excellent try in the second half.
Michael Wharton had another admirable game at full back and he was tested with some great kicks from the opposition in attack, returning them with ease and gaining valuable meters up the pitch, also stopping them on the break with some great one on ones.

Defensively the unicorns were solid only being beaten by an outstanding Saddleworth number 6. Again Cox Wright, Slydell were outstanding in the pack but it was the centre / wings combinations of Jack Morgan & Chris Ashbrook and Chris Hunt & James Williams who are all worthy of recommendation for great defensive team work out wide on both sides.

The man of the match had to go Alex Robertson who was exceptional when taking the ball forward and hard every time he was asked and tackle correctly when required, showing that he's a Rhino in attack, solid object in defence worthy of a starting position in the squad. James Johnson was brought onto the field and with his first touch of the ball scored from some great passing movement along the line, scoring under the post . Declan Patton converted. Both Jake Slydell and Matthew Wilkinson had tries disallowed for double movements in the second half which didn't do the unicorns any favours in this hard encounter.

Tries: Patton, Johnson
Goals: Patton

Team
Ashbrook, Cox, Cross, Patton, Hunt, Johnson, Morgan, Reid, Robertson, Slydell, Sullivan, Wharton, Wilkinson, Williams, Wright, Hackett, Shaw Back to top

04/02/2007 v Leigh East (home)

Latchford Albion Unicorns U12 - 44
Leigh East U12 - 14

This game showed the unicorns how good they can be and how dominate their performance can be when they putt things in order.
"Players in positions, Run the correct lines, Defend link gladiators in battle".

The half back partnership of Declan Patton and Liam Sullivan was exceptional today with them both directing the depth of the attack and also the direction of the runners, the first time this season both players have work together in synchronicity. The runs from Ashley Cox, Jack Morgan, and Jake Slydell were always powerful, questioning the defenders and with David Lea and Danny Reid always on hand baking up the East struggled to contain the unicorns advance up the field, and them scoring some outstanding team tries. Wilkinson like his name sake put in an outstanding show of kick restarts, in which the unicorns regained possession, with an exceptional chase lead by Chris Hunt time and time again. Putting East on a backwards footing and with the unicorns speed at the play the ball, control from the half backs the unicorns attack seemed unstoppable at times, scoring tries freely and them with groundhog day from the kick restart it happen again and again.

The unicorns defence was outstanding today also only allowing 3 tries in, East prop to crash over twice from close range and to be out paced by Martin Offiah?s double who had pace to burn. Jack Morgan, Chris Ashbrook and Declan Patton all got into double figures in defence today but the work load was shared across the board In this outstanding team performance, special praise to Callum Shaw for putting in some excellent one on one tackles in only his third game for the unicorns. Callum Wright was picked out from the opposition coaching panel as star man quoting
?He run and hit us like a juggernaut every time he touched the ball?

Tries - Matthew Wilkinson 2, Chris Hunt 2, David Lea , Jack Morgan, Lake Slydell,
Michael Wharton, Callum Wight
Goals - Declan Patton, Liam Sullivan, Callum Wright, Chris Hunt

Team:
Asbrook, Cox, Patton, Hunt, Lea, Morgan, Reid, Robertson, Slydell, Sullivan, Wharton, Wilkinson, Williams, Wright, Hackett, Shaw Back to top

11/02/2007 v Ince Rose Bridge (home) NWC Cup 2nd round

Latchford Albion Unicorns U12 - 24
Ince Rose Bridge U12 - 14

There's a first for everything and, prior to this match, the unicorns have never beaten Rose Bridge before on 5 previous outings. Going into this NWC Cup game on the back of a good team performance the week before, had the unicorns buzzing for this knock out encounter, and what a contest it turned out to be.

The unicorns scored from the first set of six with Declan Patton scoring out wide with some fast play the balls, great handling and powerful running from the forwards, this set the tone for the rest of this North West Counties quarter-final cup match. The full pack of forwards ran strongly throughout the game, punching wholes in the Rose Bridge defensive line questioning the tacklers' commitment during the game. Movement and speed of the ball between Matty Wilkinson, Laim Sullivan to Declan Patton who directed the rampaging unicorn?s attacks from Callum Wright, Daniel Reid, Jack Morgan and Andrea Savelio who played outstanding in his first outing for four weeks for the unicorns. All this good work was rewarded with Jake Slydell scoring near the post. Defensively during the first half the unicorns line was only crossed once with the WHOLE team putting in a solid tackling display tackling in 2s and 3s hitting the attackers hard time after time with David Lea and Ashley Cox proving solid on the right side of the pitch .
Half time 10-4

After a half time talk all about completion, commitment, and control. The unicorns started off strongly again with some great speed off the line in defence to stop the slick passing from Rose Bridge getting out wide to their speed men, and with introduction at half time of debutant Josh Wall into the centre position, this strengthened the left side and with the partnership with Jack Johnson this solidifed the left channel in solid unbreakable avenue of attack, directing the Bridge attack down the middle avenue to the awaiting horde of defenders. Declan Patton scored his second with a show of outstanding vision, a great kick chase, outpacing defenders and total determination to score ,he completed his hat trick not to long after. Michael Wharton complete the scoring from the unicorns today with a well worked try with some great passing movement and some immense foot work, Chris Hunt converted. As the unicorns are developing as a team it is showing through the individual stats on the record sheet that all the players are contributing to the game equally ,sharing the work load out, playing as a team.Roll on the semi final draw

Tries: Declan Patton 3, Micheal Wharton , Jake Slydell
Goals: Declan Patton, Chris Hunt

Team:
Ashbrook, Cox, Patton, Hunt, Johnson, Lea, Morgan, Reid, Savelio, Slydell, Sullivan, Wharton, Wilkinson, Williams, Wright, Hackett, Shaw, Wall. Back to top

18/02/2007 v Leigh East (home)

Latchford Albion Unicorns U12 - 26
Leigh East U12 - 8

With the U12's eager to continue Latchford's successful traditions in the NWC Cup there has been little opportunity to give some players as much squad time as the coaches would like. This game provided that opportunity as did some of the off field antics of some of the more regular players. An injury in the warm up forced maty Wilkinson to miss his first ever game for the club having amassed 120 consecutive appearances. A shuffle round was accepted by virtually all and such is the strength of this Unicorn squad that Latchford still ran out winners. Mind you it was touch and go in the first half with the ever-competitive Leigh East side and Latchford drawing 8-8 at the break. Latchford's tries came from Decland Patton and David Lea.

The second half saw Latchford run in four more tries, Patton and Lea adding a second each while prop Andre Savelio also crossed as did newcomer Josh Wall who scored his first for the club. Just one kick was converted with Jack Morgan maintaining his personal 100% return. Not the highest tackle count with just three players registering double figures, Danny Reid, Jake Slydell and inevitably Callum Wright. Back to top

25/02/2007 v Higginshaw Eagles (home)

Latchford Albion Unicorns U12 - 34
Higginshaw Rhinos U12 - 4

Once again the Unicorns' defensive efforts throughout the game were outstanding with many of the players getting into double figures on the tackle count, but part it was again the commitment from the whole squad to work for each other in defence and in attack sharing the work load out. The Unicorns' try line was put under tremendous pressure today from the Higginshaw attackers but it held strong throughout, until the last 5 mins were higginshaw crossed for a well deserved try, they never thru the towel in today, but they found the pace a little to fast for them. The unicorns speed of play the ball, fast runners and passing to hands a little too much to handle. Defensively the pack of forwards were like Gladiators in battle, striking player after player putting them on the floor and then up to strike again. This is not to say others didn?t contribute, as the centre wing combinations of Lea/Ashbrook and Wall/Hunt moved in and out at speed to turn the attackers back down the middle of the pitch. When Higginshaw broke through the line Wharton was at hand to mop up the attackers again and again. In attack the work load was shared out by all of the forwards, but controlled and directed by Patton, Sullivan and Benji Hunt in the half backs. The first try came of a pin pointed kick from Patton which had Hackett and Lea racing to get the ball first, Lea won the foot race to score in the corner.
Hunt scored the second stepping and dodging the Higginshaw defence to score close to the post. Outstanding line pass and running on the ball at pace was reward with Josh Wall scoring his first try for the unicorns. Patton again was on fire going forward and scored an exceptional solo try. Wilkinson did his Cunningham impression again going over from close range, Patton converted. Every kick restart in the first half was executed to perfection with a great kick, outstanding chase and big, big tackles. Half time lead 20-0

Another great half time talk between players and coaching staff, on about competition and speed of the defensive line was put into action straight from the restart off Cox who put in a towering kick and the chase was just as good. Higginshaw got most of the possession during the second half and they were camped out on the unicorn?s line for numerous sets of six and lots of repeat sets, but the solid defensive line held strong throughout until Sullivan intercepted and went the full length of the field outpacing and defenders to score under the post. Patton again converted. Continual pressure from the unicorns force a goal line drop out in which Cox collect on the full and there was only going to be one out come with the expressions on his face .he scored a try.Higginshaw were then reward with a well deserved try for there constant pressure of the unicorns line.
Unicorns went the full length off the field from the restart finishing off with Wharton scoring in the corner after some outstanding passing through hands from them. Score finished 34-4 but Higginshaw never ever gave up probing the Unicorns' line but it held strong through most off the game. Back to top

11/03/2007 v Saddleworth Rangers (away) NWC Cup semi final

Saddlewoth Rangers U12 - 12
Latchford Albion Unicorns U12 - 0

The semi final of the North West Counties Cup against a team the Unicorns have never beaten before was a big ask, so playing them on their paddock and without the main conductor of the team, Declan Patton, the odds were against the Unicorns from the start.
The team tried everything in this game, but it seemed Lady Luck wasn't on their side today, the bounce of the ball was wrong, the last touch never went to hands, the kick chase was too strong and that usual speed of line defence was missing. That said the game was outstanding, a great spectacle to watch and it was refereed by an outstanding young, upandcoming ref from Oldham.

Every player gave their all with no standout player today. The appearance in a final just wasn't there for the Latchford team. All coaching, and hopefully the parents as well, are proud of this team and hopefully they will be playing in the top flight next season. Back to top

25/03/2007 v Haydock Warriors (away)

Haydock Warriors U12 - 0
Latchford Albion Unicorns U12 - '30'

Prior to kick off the unicorns were set one task, to put into action things that have been worked on in the weeks training sessions and they did some off the time. Latchford scored from the kick off, forcing Haydock to spill the ball in the first tackle, this set the tone for the first half with the unicorns scoring at easy throughout the first half racking up a comfortable 28-0 half time lead, with tries from Josh Wall 2, Michael Wharton 2, Declan Patton and Jake Slydell

During the second half the lack of completing their sets of six allowed Haydock to think they could get back into this game, but tackle machine Callum Wright had no plans of letting them back into this game making a colossal 31 tackles during the game, he was assisted by Andre Savelio, Josh Wall and Jack Morgan during this stint. The go forward in the second half seen not to be there as it was at the start of the match, with the unicorns making too may errors, wrong choices in attack and knock on after knock on. Only a single try from captain David Lea was to show for the teams efforts. But all said and done the unicorns kept out a relentless Haydock outfit from crossing the whitewash.
Working hard and keeping focus is the call for the last 4 remanding games of this under 12 season.

Team: Ashbrook, Cox, Patton, Hunt, Lea, Morgan, Reid, Savelio, Slydell, Sullivan, Wall, Wharton, Wilkinson, Williams, Wright

Goals: Sullivan, Wilkinson, Wall Back to top

01/04/2007 v Wigan St Jude's (away)

Wigan St Judes U12 - 4
Latchford Albion Unicorns U12 - 18

For the second week running the Unicorns took to the field everything they had worked and done during training that week. EVERY player work their socks off in defence, covering one another, tackling anything that moved in the opposition kit, and generally they never stopped working for one another in this exceptional team display today.

During attack the play makers called the shots (Sullivan, Patton, and Williams), the forwards laid the platform (Cox, Wright, Savelio, Slydell), for the backs to run the opposition ragged (Hunt, Lea, Wall, Ashbrook ) and when thing needed to be claimed down in stepped Jack Morgan to steady the unicorns up and put them on the right track for the next assault and with an excellent interchange bench of Reid, Cross changing with the tiring forwards and Robertson and Hackett changing with the wingers this keeping the unicorns at full power on the field of play. The only player not to have to make a tackle today was Wharton at fullback, but he return every kick that St Judes put to him with power and pace making valuable meters up the field.

During the first half unicorn attack was near as you can get to perfect but there only reward for this was a solitary try in the corner by Ashbrook which Wall converted from the touchline. Lea and Wall in the centres work hard in defence moving the line in and out on every count. Williams gave a great serves to Sullivan who them onto Patton who conducted his troops around the pitch attacking left side, then right side and sometimes attacking the line himself.

The restart was again great with Patton putting in an excellent kick that caused an error from the opposition. Cox, Slydell and Savelio work industriously throughout the game hitting wholes in the defensive line on every drive. The combination of Patton and Wright worked well as the later was starting to gain yardage up the field due to his powerful running style, this put the St Judes defenders on a backward foot, allowing unicorns? to show some great line passing getting the wingers in valued and rewarding Robertson with a try on wide. Patton converted another goal from the touchline .Continual pressure from the unicorns through some great running and passing was a rewarded by Wall scoring under the post. Sullivan converted.

This was probably the best performance to date from the Unicorns have put together during the under 12's season and lays a great platform for them to build on and take forward into the 3 remaining games, and then building up for the forth coming 13?s league system. After playing this style of rugby today the unicorns will continue it as you are only as good as your last game ,and today THE UNICORNS WORKED AS ONE UNIT THROUGHOUT. Back to top

15/04/2007 v Higgenshaw Eagles (away)

Higgenshaw Wagles U12 - 12
Latchford Albion Unicorns U12 - 14

This was an excellent advert for junior rugby and tough, hard rugby was on show from both teams on this hot April morning in Oldham Yes that's right 'hot'. A below par performance from the Unicorns in parts allowed a tough aggressive Higgenshaw team to stay in the game, but if the points mattered at this under 12's game they would have gone to the Unicorns making it a double scalp this year over the home side. Again the Unicorns started well with the ball going left and right with pace and precision controlled by Patton and Sullivan working the troops over the pitch. The forwards again shared the work around along the wing centres to attack down the flanks.Centres Lea and Wall scored today and, also Savelio who capped off an excellent all round game by scoring on one off his numerous runs.Wall and Patton converted. Reid and Hunt put in great performances today during the first half. with Ashbrook and Williams during the second half. Wright and Slydell took the top tackler accolade with both turning in double figures in defence and Slydell put in his best performance of the year so far. But as your only as good as your last game, the unicorns played well under par if their last outing was anything to go by, but as I?m reminded it is 4 out of 4 with 1 to go.
Well done lads for an outstanding end of season run in and we will all go on AIR

Tries: - David Lea, Josh Wall, Andre Savelio
Goals: - Josh Wall, Declan Patton

Team:
Ashbrook, Cox, Cross, Patton, Hunt, Lea, Reid, Robertson, Savelio, Slydell, Sullivan, Wall, Wharton, Wilkinson, Williams, Wright, Hackett, Shaw Back to top

22/04/2006 v Halton Farnworth Hornets (away)

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