BackSun 07 Sep 2025 · Junior Colts: Prelim C
Junior ColtsBolton Junior U17 Colts
22
10
Match Report: Fleetwood RUFC Junior Colts vs Bolton
Mike Barkworth
Final Score: Fleetwood 22 – 10 Bolton Venue: Melbourne Avenue, Fleetwood Conditions: Wet, Wild, and Full of Heart
In a game that nearly didn’t happen, Fleetwood RUFC Junior Colts battled through burst pipes, torrential conditions, and a two-season winless streak to earn a gritty and emotional 22–10 victory over Bolton.
The day began in chaos, with a burst pipe flooding the clubhouse and changing rooms early in the morning. But thanks to a team of incredible volunteers who showed up at the crack of dawn, the water was cleared, repairs were made, and the pitch was saved – setting the stage for an unforgettable day of rugby.
Under the guidance of new coaches Steve O’Connell and Josh “Tubs” Strickland, and expertly managed by the ever-efficient Alexa Duckworth, the young Green and Golds showed just how far they’ve come in a short space of time.
Fleetwood started strongly, with Taylor Boor crossing early and converting his own try for a 7–0 lead. Bolton responded with two quick tries from their winger, both out wide and unconverted, putting the visitors ahead 10–7.
Just before half-time, Fleetwood regained the lead through debutant Jake Dunston, who powered over the line to make it 12–10 at the break. Dunston’s story is already becoming club folklore – the marine engineering student only signed on Tuesday after arriving at Fleetwood Nautical College, and wasted no time making his mark.
The second half saw Fleetwood’s defence rise to the occasion. The Colts shut Bolton out completely, led by a phenomenal effort from Luke Gee, whose ferocious tackling and tireless work rate set the tone all afternoon. Dunston added his second try before Oliver Wilkinson sealed the result with a late score in the corner.
The final act of the game saw Fleetwood hold Bolton up over the line – a fitting end to a performance built on resilience, unity, and belief.
⭐ Player of the Match: Luke Gee
A defensive masterclass from Gee, who led by example with dominant tackles and relentless effort, inspiring those around him and laying the foundation for the team’s second-half shutout.
? Debut to Remember: Jake Dunston
Signed just four days ago, Dunston made an instant impact with two crucial tries on debut – a massive boost for the squad and a welcome addition to the Green and Golds family.
?️ Coach’s Corner
After the final whistle, an emotional Steve O’Connell said:
“I’ve had a lot of special moments in coaching, but this one means more to me than any of them. What these lads have done in such a short space of time – the effort, the attitude, the togetherness – it’s been incredible. They’ve earned every bit of this win.”
This was more than just a victory – it was the start of a new era. Credit to every player, volunteer, and member of the coaching team. The Colts are back – and Fleetwood is watching.
The day began in chaos, with a burst pipe flooding the clubhouse and changing rooms early in the morning. But thanks to a team of incredible volunteers who showed up at the crack of dawn, the water was cleared, repairs were made, and the pitch was saved – setting the stage for an unforgettable day of rugby.
Under the guidance of new coaches Steve O’Connell and Josh “Tubs” Strickland, and expertly managed by the ever-efficient Alexa Duckworth, the young Green and Golds showed just how far they’ve come in a short space of time.
Fleetwood started strongly, with Taylor Boor crossing early and converting his own try for a 7–0 lead. Bolton responded with two quick tries from their winger, both out wide and unconverted, putting the visitors ahead 10–7.
Just before half-time, Fleetwood regained the lead through debutant Jake Dunston, who powered over the line to make it 12–10 at the break. Dunston’s story is already becoming club folklore – the marine engineering student only signed on Tuesday after arriving at Fleetwood Nautical College, and wasted no time making his mark.
The second half saw Fleetwood’s defence rise to the occasion. The Colts shut Bolton out completely, led by a phenomenal effort from Luke Gee, whose ferocious tackling and tireless work rate set the tone all afternoon. Dunston added his second try before Oliver Wilkinson sealed the result with a late score in the corner.
The final act of the game saw Fleetwood hold Bolton up over the line – a fitting end to a performance built on resilience, unity, and belief.
⭐ Player of the Match: Luke Gee
A defensive masterclass from Gee, who led by example with dominant tackles and relentless effort, inspiring those around him and laying the foundation for the team’s second-half shutout.
? Debut to Remember: Jake Dunston
Signed just four days ago, Dunston made an instant impact with two crucial tries on debut – a massive boost for the squad and a welcome addition to the Green and Golds family.
?️ Coach’s Corner
After the final whistle, an emotional Steve O’Connell said:
“I’ve had a lot of special moments in coaching, but this one means more to me than any of them. What these lads have done in such a short space of time – the effort, the attitude, the togetherness – it’s been incredible. They’ve earned every bit of this win.”
This was more than just a victory – it was the start of a new era. Credit to every player, volunteer, and member of the coaching team. The Colts are back – and Fleetwood is watching.
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