VALE VIKINGS 6  FYLDE SARACENS 19

HALBRO TROPHY 2nd ROUND

After numerous telephone calls between the two clubs, a decision was taken to inspect the pitch at 9.00am on matchday to declare whether the ground would be fit to stage this prestigious Halbro Trophy fixture. The inspection duly took place and the pitch was declared 'acceptable'

However, unknown to anyone the weather in the intervening hours was to get much worse and by kick off time there was plenty of standing water on the pitch but the two teams and referee agreed to proceed. Rain continued throughout the match and towards the end some players were heard to request Scuba gear!

Having said all that, those who braved the weather were witness to a terrific contest between two totally committed sides who gave their all. Fylde Saracens riding high in Miller Homes Div 3 North are no doubt a talented set of players but they were given a hard time by a dour tackling Vale side and the result remained in doubt until late in the game when Fylde scored two tries. 

Tony Holt from the North Lancs Referees Association refereed the game admirably on one of the coldest, wettest, muddiest Saturdays we have experienced for many years - whilst it was difficult for the players, it must have been equally difficult for him.

Best of luck in the next round Fylde

Fred Swarbrick.

Post match comment of the day goes to Fylde's Mark Evans, veteran of 237 1st XV appearances and rugby coach at Arnold School who was playing for the Saracens - 'It was the coldest, muddiest, windiest, wettest game of rugby that I've ever been to as a player or coach!'