Mets bounce back to winning ways at Higginshaw

THE Mets returned to winning ways after a hard fought match in the windswept Pennines on Saturday.

Disappointment after last week's defeat evaporated following a tenacious and determined display by a side carrying several knocks.

The teams were evenly matched during the first quarter, with defences dominant. Eventually Higginshaw broke clear to score, but clever attacking play by Bolton resulted in a try for player-coach Chris Brown, converted by James Harper.

Higginshaw responded with wave after wave of attack. Robust defending, particularly from winger Jack Butler and forwards Daz Mahoney and Neil Hart, kept the score at 6-6 at half time.

Responding to a blunt half-time team talk, Bolton responded manfully, after unfortunately gifting a try to Higginshaw soon after the restart.

Man-of-the-match Neil Walsh and winger Gaz Cartwright made valuable yards, and captain Mark Dorning completed a set move to score a try. A change in tactics paid off soon afterwards when both Chris Brown and full back Pierce Sherrington crossed for tries in the right hand corner, both converted from the touchline by James Harper.

Half backs Darryl Leech and Paul Willocks continued to dictate play skilfully as Bolton gained the upper hand in attack.

Higginshaw found no respite when they had possession either. Led by tackling machine Jon Atherton, with an incredible 46 tackles, the Mets piled on the pressure and disrupted the home side very effectively.

Denied the direct route, Higginshaw were lucky to score following a kick and chase to create a tense final few minutes; but Bolton played sensible rugby and their defence remained solid to hold out.

Bolton now play their final match of the season against Cadishead on Saturday at New House Farm, 2.30pm kick off.