Vagabonds 3 Moore 5

MOORE first team travelled to Vagabonds on the Isle of Man in an attempt to consolidate their mid-table position in South Lancs Cheshire League Two.

Strong winds set the scene and type of play for the day, which was long kicks and up the jumper rugby for the most part.

Moore played into the wind in the first half and took the game to Vagabonds with quick line speed cutting down the options of the opposition back line and in particular their increasingly nervous fly half.

Play continued around the midfield with strong running from Will McMullen and man-of-the-match Joe Long but a quick turnover and break by Vagabonds number four saw Moore give away a penalty to the right of the sticks.

The kick was called which was a shock decision given the strength of the wind and it was missed.

A second penalty shortly after for infringements around the ruck saw a repeated attempt which this time gave the home side three points.

Moore reacted well to the points and with ball in hand battered Vagabonds’ defensive line with strong direct running which eventually saw Moore in the opposition 22, with phase after phase of controlled ruck ball.

Moore's patience at each ruck proved invaluable as a penalty followed, which saw quick hands from Brad Atherton to put Adam Wadsworth in for five points.

The conversion from the touchline was close to impossible, with the wind and remained unconverted following the attempt.

The game plan in the second half was to play for territory and use the wind.

Lewis Johnston played the conditions to perfection pinning Vagabonds in their 22 with the boot.

Vagabonds refused to die and continued to run at Moore's solid defence which held out all game.

Huge tackles from Phil Woolacott and Kristian Laga ensured the Vagabonds side would not enjoy any aspect of carrying the ball into the defensive line.

Moore failed to control the scrums as efficiently in the second 40 and Vagabonds used this to gain territory into the wind.

This gave Vagabonds the advantage on occasion, but a fantastic back line defence saw several knock-ons by the home side which allowed Moore to keep possession and walk away with the win.

A fantastic win for Moore in what is always a tough fixture and the continued hard work in training of the defence and determination of the travelling side was clear for all to see.

A well-deserved win for Moore's first who host Duckinfield at home next week where another defence masterclass will be vital to maintain their league position this season.