10 men went to mow!

With the proposed pitch on which to do battle resembling something agricultural the only alternative was to sort matters out on a nearby junior pitch. Sadly, the nomadic mercenaries could only muster 9 players meaning Fleet had little option other than to put out their quickest 10 resulting in the remaining 7 replacements spectating for long periods during the 30 minute each way thriller!

Eventually the game was underway with both sides showing their intent with some strong direct carrying of the ball, big tackles flying in across the small pitch. Debutant player Fuller was showing his league skills combining well with half back partner Woodhouse, as Fleet finally broke the deadlock when youngster Stelfox jinked his way through to score, Jackson adding the extras to make it 7-0. Minutes later Fleet were awarded a penalty for an opposition hand in the ruck, Jackson slotting it with ease, 10-0 to the good. Despite plenty of possession Fleet were not yet in full control, and it was NWM who came up with a well driven try themselves making it 10-5 at the break.

The visitors took the game to their hosts who by now were reduced to just 8 men, Atkin becoming more prominent at the breakdown area and it was Howe who scored the next try making it 15-5. Although NWM continued to give a spirited performance the contest was effectively over 10 minutes later when the 'mouse' Bowker broke forward with the ball offloading to the available Jackson who crashed over to score and convert making it 22-5. Minutes later a further penalty was despatched by Jackson making it 25-5. Although the light was fading and the rain was steadily falling the multi-coloured mercenary shirted men continued to show their determination, indeed they scored a late try to make it 25-12.

After what was quite a surreal experience for all concerned picking out a man of the match was difficult given it was not the normal game that Fleet are used to! That said, Stelfox showed his skills in all areas of the game, Fuller was prominent in attack, Jackson carried and kicked well, Atkin was at the heart of most things, however it was the tackling, running with ball in hand and distribution of Woodhouse that narrowly gave him the accolade.

Next week Fleet host their final game of the year at home against Vale of Lune, hoping that the visitors will bring a full compliment of players.

Report from Dan Jefferson