Rugby - Interception tips scales in Kirkby thriller (From The Westmorland Gazette)

Rugby - Interception tips scales in Kirkby thriller

3:00pm Thursday 10th March 2011 in Sport

Kirkby Lonsdale 26,Wilmslow 23.

IN-FORM Kirkby Lonsdale made it four North 1 West wins in their last five matches - with only leaders Altrincham Kersal lowering their colours - and this exciting contest went the full distance.

Playing into a stiff wind, Kirkby exchanged penalties with Hadwin cancelling out MacCallum’s effort.

However, Wilmslow’s dangerous backs made their presence felt when big centre Chadwick broke through for a try by the posts, which MacCallum converted and he kicked another penalty to extend the lead to 13-3.

As Kirkby’s forwards started to press hard, Wilmslow hooker Donaldson was yellow carded, and Hadwin claimed three points back from the penalty.

Quick ball to stand-off Cleary then startled Wilmslow as he streaked through a gap and outpaced the full back to score. Hadwin’s kick was held up by the wind, but Kirkby were back in the game, although another penalty against them made it 16-11 at half time.

From the restart Kirkby were soon into the visitors’ 22 and, worked a blindside move for Knapton to cut inside for a smart try. Cleary’s kick was just wide but the scores were level.

Kirkby kept the initiative and Hadwin’s chip over the top for Belshaw to chase took play near the Wilmslow line.

Kirkby got the put-in at a scrum and shunted the Wilmslow pack back across the line for Shepherd to touch down. Hadwin’s kick hit the post and came back but Kirkby were 21-16 ahead.

Wilmslow’s backs looked capable of scoring from anywhere and attacked from deep, but flanker Close intercepted and had the pace to score. The conversion failed but Kirkby were 26-16 in front.

In an exciting finish , Wilmslow broke through and Chadwick forced his way over. MacCallum converted and cut the gap to 26-23.

Kirkby full back Pickthall made a try-saving tackle then Knapton did the same on the opposite touchline.

The home supporters shouted themselves hoarse and with the Wilmslow forwards visibly tiring, Kirkby got to the final whistle without further score.