27/9/09

Under 11’s  Wyke 26 Meltham All Blacks 32

Wyke’s under 11’s were keen and eager and it showed as they were the first to score.  Jack Clifford for Meltham ignited the touch paper with a sensational run after the forwards had laid the platform.  Darren Walker converted .  The home side quickly scored again with some excellent passing skills they jinxed their way over the try line. In-form Lewis Bull, put the All Blacks in again when he took the ball from 10 yards out and like any good hooker he drove the ball in low and came up with the spoils. With some solid tackling from Conor Donaldson, Cameron Hirst and Jamie Atkinson, and Louis Lawrence working hard in attack the lead was consolidated by Clifford. 8-16 going into the break.

Refreshed after the break, Wyke reminded the All Blacks they were in for a close game with another try, weaving in and out of the defence.  It was neck and neck.  Substitute Pestell then inspired his visiting team with a drive that had power and pace to burn and was rewarded with a try right of the sticks.  Converted by Hirst.  Shortly after Walker clattered into the upright, no doubt a few brusied ribs the day after but got a deserved try to put Meltham further ahead.  Converted by Joshua Barrett.  However the home side were not finished and they let the ball do the talking, going over for a try in the corner, after some well worked moves paid off. Clifford rounded off the game with a hat trick before Wyke scored a consolation try which they converted.  Final score 26-32.

Under 16’s Walton 32 – Meltham 16

After losing seven players from last season you would think it might spell bad times for Meltham but with the arrival of new players although inexperienced Meltham are still moving forwards.  These lads are keen and learning fast, plus there are another three to yet play their first game then things will begin to look a bit brighter.  With injuries and registrations still to arrive, Meltham went to Walton with just ten men with the sole aim of fulfilling the fixture and gaining experience for the new lads but this turned out to be an excellent game.  Straight from the off Meltham put the hosts under pressure and forced them to knock on although this came to nothing but on Walton’s next set Meltham again caused them to knock on and some good running from Nathan Richardson and Matthew Speight allowed Jordan Williams to cross over to give Meltham the lead which was converted out wide by Jack Slater.  Even outnumbered Meltham were the ones who claimed most of the possession, just not able to turn it into points. This continued until five minutes before half time when Meltham seemed to tire and let the hosts score two tries to go in at half time with a 10 6 lead.

 20 September 2009

Under 11’s – Meltham 16 Queensbury 14

Queensbury had the advantage of the slope in the first half, but it was the home side who were the first to score.  After a lovely run from Jack Clifford from under the sticks to half way, and his combination with Cameron Hirst put them over the try line (4-0).  Queensbury had definitely come with rugby in mind and showed a clean pair of heels to even the score.  Clifford and Hirst joined forces again with great speed, this time with Clifford scoring, and Hirst converting.

At half time it looked like the All Blacks may seal the victory easily, but it was not to be.  Most of the play was on the defended try line. The All Blacks defending whole-heartedly, and Queensbury showing them how to pass out the ball during a tackle – but Meltham held on!!  Robson Moore for Queensbury levelled the score once more, and then they took the lead with their third try of the day (10-14).  Meltham’s defence was excellent, Lewis Bull, Conor Donaldson, Jamie Atkinson, and Josh Elam holding their nerve.  Their perseverance paid off when Hirst swerved left of the defence and scored in the far left corner.  It was a good job Darren Walker was unaware of the pressure before he took the conversion, and with the 2 points in the bag, ensured Meltham finished up the victors.

Under 14’s – Meltham 16 West Bowling 28

Meltham got off to a flying start as Elliot Morris scored a (converted) try within the first 5 minutes.  West Bowling responded immediately to bring the scores level. A period of sustained pressure from the visitors ensued culminating in a second (converted) try.  Meltham then launched several attacks of their own but found it difficult to break down the oppositions defence.  Finally a clever kick from Jack Thackeray enabled Elliot Morris to collect and offload for Oliver Kirk to score and narrow the gap.

As Meltham were rueing an opportunity to score again shortly afterwards, West Bowling raced away to score a long-distance (converted) try. And as half-time approached, the visitors scored (converted) once more in the corner.

Meltham started strongly after the interval with Elliot Clemson, Aidan Egdell and Jacob Green making several strong runs; the All Blacks looked capable of mounting a comeback. However, West Bowling stood firm and broke the stalemate through a well- worked try. Meltham responded to the setback and only a last-gasp tackle prevented Oliver Kirk from scoring from distance. Both teams continued to battle hard. The home team threatened but failed to cross the visitors try line throughout the second half until Oliver Kirk scored a (converted) consolation try in the dying minutes.

West Bowling’s victory was hard fought and well-deserved on the day.

Man of the Match

Jack Thackeray

GIRLS U16’s – Debut

On Saturday (19/09) Meltham’s 3 registered players travelled to Farnley to take part in their first tournament in the Yorkshire Girls Rugby League Festival.  The first game was Ovenden against a mixed Castleford Panthers/Farnley side – the girls watched and took note, as they got to know their team-mates from Stanningley and West Leeds.  They took to the field, against Cas/Farnley with the team being predominantly Stanningley – their coach managed the team.  Charlie Trail from Meltham was first to get on the pitch, and once there she made sure she wasn’t going anywhere else.  Using what she had picked up in training, she moved in for the tackle at every opportunity, and even went over for her first ever try. Helping win the game 5 tries to 4.  Hollie Abbott was next to get on the pitch, proving beyond a doubt that she could transfer her tackling skills on to the pitch, and proved useful in defence in both games.  Hollie didn’t look very confident to begin with, and with the coach having the opportunity to substitute often she was on and off the pitch.  However, in the second game against Ovenden she proved she had a safe pair of hands, and the ability to side step and get the ball forward.  Jemma Martin had very little time on the pitch, but made some good tackles while she was there, unfortunately out on the wing the ball never came her way.  The Stanningley coach wouldn’t play her against Ovenden, because he thought she was too frail against the big confident side – who won the game extremely easy.  At Meltham we know better than to under-estimate a small player, and Jemma is now even more determined to get her own back at the next tournament at Castleford Panthers (3 Oct).  With 2 more girls having already handed their registrations in, and another 2 interested we hope to have the majority in future games, any girls interested in playing rugby league please ring Donna on 01484 320560.  We are also hosting the tournament on 17 October for the Yorkshire Girls Rugby League Festival, for all age groups – U12’s, U14’s and U16’s

After a convincing win at home in February, the All Blacks began where they left off, with wing man Cameron Hirst scorching down the left wing to give the visitors the early lead but unlucky not to convert (0-4).  The young side looked a little rusty after their off season but debutant Joshua Barrett gave the under 11’s confidence with his solid tackling that all would be well.

Ever present on the right wing Jack Clifford left the would be Siddal tacklers when he strode in for his first of the season and converted to put the visitors firmly in the driving seat.  The spectators were treated to some lovely passing from Conor Donaldson and Darren Walker working well from dummy half. 

Having grown in ability and stature, Christian Pestell showed his strength when bringing the ball up field, he struggled past the defenders to get nearer to the whitewash. The combination of power and strength from Alex Zatorski and Joshua Elam would have many sides on the back foot.

Jordan Irving and James Haigh showed they had been working on their tackling and came up with some try stopping move, using the sideline to their advantage - skills from out of the top drawer.  Siddal hit back just before the break when Finley Hickey jinxed his way through the Meltham defence.  The conversion glided over between the sticks 6-14 at half-time.

A knock-on straight from the restart gave Meltham the opportunity to put the game out of Siddal’s grasp.  Jamie Atkinson linking nicely with Reece Craven and Louis Lawrence to add power and pace for the forwards and made it 18-6. Lewis Bull who was tenacious in the first half stepped up to be counted again with nifty runs darting in and out of the defence,  whilst Ryan White improving week on week made sure Meltham were on the winning side. With further tries from Donaldson and Clifford when he ran the full length of the pitch he rightly celebrated and got the fans cheering.

It was not all one way traffic however , and Siddal were still dangerous making sure the game was exciting to the very last minute with two late tries making the score more respectable. 

Under 14’s  Keighley 12 - Meltham 28

After a nervous start in which Meltham’s mistakes allowed Keighley to score twice Meltham regrouped and hit back with two tries from Elliot Morris.  Meltham’s defence steadied and continuously beat back all Keighley’s attacks.  Good approach work all round allowed Oliver Kirk to score so that Meltham went into the half time break leading 18 -12.

After a good half time discussion Meltham came out and moved the ball well, up and down the line.  The forwards ran hard and made ground, and the backs kept the momentum going to create a fine team display with Jack Thackeray probing, Elliot Morris went over for his hat-trick.  Meltham now contolled the game all over the pitch.  Second rowers Joshua Holmes and Elliott Clemson made ground all the time, Oliver Kirk joined the attack to good effect from full back, Scott Gledhill distributed the ball well from half back after taking over from the injured Charlie Slater.  Wingers Greg Thompson and Alex Clapham locked the outside with centres Frazer Morris and Alex Markowycz. Meltham now played some good flowing rugby, moving the ball and making the defence work until a gap opened up and Oliver Kirk went through for his second. Props Aidan Egdell and Jacob Green ran up the hill tirelessly allowing Adam Worrall to use the ball to push Meltham around the park, Jack Zatorski came on the wing and stood tall in defence along with every Meltham player. A good start to the season and with new players coming and the players working hard, the future looks bright for this team.

West Riding Cup final on Sunday 5^th April against King Cross.

The league champions play off final against Elland (Easter Sunday 12^th April) The Huddersfield Cup 26^th April against Moldgreen.

Meltham All Blacks  36  v   West Bowling 22

This league semi final play off was always going to a great game with the teams meeting two weeks previous and Bowling edging the contest in the friendly encounter by eight points. But with more at stake this time round, Meltham emerged victorious in what was a tight and hard fought win.

          Meltham won the toss and chose to go up the hill in the first half with Bowling kicking deep Meltham worked hard out of their own half to complete their first set and when Bowling reached Meltham’s twenty in their first attack the pressure was mounting before a Meltham mistake granted the Bradford outfit a fresh set in their own ten, quick hands saw the visitors pass up and down the line before eventually scoring and converting the two points to take a six nil lead. Bowling continued to apply pressure in the Meltham half with another score looking imminent before a breathtaking interception saw Oliver Kirk dash seventy yards and outpace the wingman to score under the sticks. With David Dyson gladly converting the two points the scores were tied. The next blow came from Bowling with Meltham conceding four, back to back penalties to piggyback Bowling into their ten before a try was conceded out wide with the extras being missed, West Bowling had a ten six lead but their kick off at the restart went straight out of touch allowing Meltham to get a run at them before Scott Gledhill in his new role at hooker did a show and go dummy on the Bowling line to score for the All Blacks. Dyson converted the extras to make the scores twelve-six to the All Blacks at half time.

          At the interval, Meltham addressed a few issues with the game plan and came out running down the hill with all guns blazing. Solid running from Jacob Green at prop allowed the Meltham team to get a roll on and score the next few tries through quick play the ball and running at a tired Bowling outfit, Meltham made full advantage of the slope and added tries through Elliot Morris (2), Another from Kirk and a short range crash over from Cameron Haigh, which was enough to seal the win. Although Bowling never gave up and managed another two scores, it wasn’t enough to stop the powerful forwards of Meltham causing the damage. Elliot Morris also had one try disallowed for showboating.  Man of the matches picked by under 11’s coach Bob King were as follows; Best back went to Greg Thompson for superb tackling out wide. Best forward went to Oliver Kirk for two tries and 110% effort all over the park. Man of the match went to David Dyson for controlling his team and a solid kicking performance throughout the game.

          On the downside, Meltham at times looked second rate and their penalty count was through the roof.  Against tougher opponents in the fast approaching finals, they will have to improve their discipline to get the results they have trained hard all year for!

Meltham Under 14’s through to Huddersfield Cup Final – that makes it all 3 eligible teams in the finals.

On their first mid-week match for a year the Under 14’s convincingly beat Slaithwaite 54-0 to secure their place in the Huddersfield Cup Final.  Meltham only have 3 teams eligible for the Huddersfield Cup – and they have all made it to the finals.  A day out for all the Meltham supporters on Sunday 26 April.

The Under 13’s take on Moldgreen

The Under 14’s take on Newsome

The Under 15’s take on Newsome

Under 9’s

Meltham All Blacks 24 – Siddal 50

After two outstanding wins in their opening games, Meltham came back down to earth with a bump against a big  side who overpowered the All Blacks in the second half of a sometimes niggly match, hindered by some inconsistent refereeing

. In the first period the match was closely contested, with Man of the Match Innes Senior replying to Siddal’s opening score with some strong running and the first of his three tries. Jake Smith, ‘Most Improved’, also found some space, while Top Tackler Jordan James, took the game to Siddal with a try of his own.

But Siddal began to take control as Meltham tired, despite some brave defending by Thomas King, ‘Top Trainer’, and Stephen Reilly, to press home their advantage and win the match.

Under 8’s

Meltham All Blacks 40 - Queensbury 48

What an action packed high scoring game.

After a minutes silence in memory of the young rugby player Leon Walker, who died last week , both teams came out in high spirits.

With only 6 players on the Queensbury side Meltham had half their team on the sideline with 13 players in total this week. Adding to the Meltham All Blacks side were new recruits Zach Rose & Aiden Douglas who played their debut game, so substitutions were quick & often.

Tries came thick & fast from both teams which was a great achievement in itself for the All Blacks due to the number of changes being made for this young side.

Captain Adam Szlachcic scored a try for his team which was closely followed by a try by Most Improved Luke Fletcher & Daniel Tinson who ran the length of the field.

The opposition then scored more tries as their No 5 was outstanding & unstoppable.

Meltham All Blacks then came fighting back with M.O.M Harry Jackson scoring another try & then joint Top Trainers Allan Karrasch & Kyle Longbottom both scoring for the All Blacks.

Joshua Staincliffe & Harley Dyson then backed up Darren Douglas so that he could score another try.

Joseph Cassidy then passed to Top Tackler Joe Morrison who came onto the field after a substitution & scored immediately. This was his first try of 3.

In the end all their hard work just couldn’t pay off during this high scoring match as they missed out by 2 tries right at the end.

It did however, prove that they are a team with great potential for the future and in any other match would have won easily with the amount of tries scored today.

This quarter final draw against the Keighley outfit was a daunting prospect with the teams meeting three times already this season and Keighley edging the encounters 2-1 the chances of a loss were high. But the Meltham team shone like the stars they are and played some fine rugby to progress to the next stage of the league playoffs. At times the performance was dogged and gritty but this was always going to be the case against a physical and brutal Cougar team. Apart from a 10 minute spell at the beginning of the second half when the All Blacks lost their discipline, it was a solid display with the victors looking the better team on the day.

Elliot Morris was the impact player of the day touching down five times throughout the game to earn him man of the match. Oliver Kirk also scored a deserved try for his outstanding running through the middle of the park leaving the Keighley defence destroyed and in pieces. This effort earned him best forward on the day. Scott Gledhill shone in his new position at hooker and scored a convincing try putting his body through the line with a show and go at acting half to crash over and score. But best back went to David Dyson for kicking six of his seven attempts at goal with one only slightly missing with an attempt from the touch line. It goes unnoticed to many but those twelve points he added make a huge difference to the score line and am sure they will prove vital in the next few games of the season with Meltham drawing a home fixture against west bowling in the semi final of the league play-offs. West bowling are a strong team and Meltham will have to be at their best to progress to the final.        

          Once again, well done to the team for a great performance against Keighley. 

Hopefully this strong side will get through the play-offs as League Winners – they still have everything to play for – and these difficult matches are good training for the West Riding Cup Final on 5 April up at Emley.

Meltham under  10’s   42 v Newsome 20    

Meltham’s under 10’s only defeat of the season was by a narrow margin at Newsome, so coach Williams was looking to put on a good show of Meltham’s talent.  He was not to be disappointed.  With his great depth of squad it was difficult for anyone to stand out as during the game as several player interchanges took place.

However, Dominic Kendall opened the scoring for Meltham showing great pace as he ran up hill beating the panthers for speed and placed it nicely under the sticks.  Cameron Hirst making a name for himself added another couple to his tally before Newsome Panthers found some individual flare to make it 16-4. 

Although Newsome were making it hard work for the home side, Meltham were on top from the start, and praise from his team mates when Lewis Bull scored his first try of the season, as he burrowed over the line to give Meltham a healthy lead, converted by Conor Donaldson (22-4)  Jordan Williams made it 26-4 just before the half time break.

Some fantastic ball handling from Jamie Atkinson, Louis Lawrence and Jack Clifford led to the next try, Kendall extending his lead as top try scorer made it 30-4.  Newsome however had some talent of their own, with good handling skills, keeping the ball alive in tight situations it was 30-10.  Hirst then splitting the defence straight down the middle for his hat-trick.  Newsome replied again, in the corner, but unable to convert 34-14. Williams, was key to the organised and professional side, showing individual flare.  He stopped a definite try from the Newsome player, by putting him into touch, then somehow gathered the ball and raced to the other end of the field for another try, his third of the game - another outstanding performance.  Newsome scored the last points in the final minutes but it was little consolation.  Coach Williams a very proud man, with another well deserved victory.

Meltham Under 11’s West bowling 28      v 6   Meltham

It all started so well for  Meltham the weather the best  it  has  ever  been . The passing started so well tackling was  getting better  and  better with  Daniel ing and  Oliver  Szlachcic bossing the centres  in defence . Matt Brearley mopping  up any ones  that  got  through and  Sam Mate  catching  any  drifting runs . Then we  had  a  bad  run and  west  bowling  put  4  trys  past us  in the  first  half .It  did not  down heart  the  players who got back to working  has  a  unit and  started  to fight  back with  some  punishing  runs of  Cory McDonagh and Jack Evans who in turn got  Daniel king  who battered  their  defence with  no opening  in site .Matt  brearley  time  and  time  again  punished his body to break through west bowling  defence and had the  opposition worrying  every time he  had  the  ball .

The  attitude of  the  team carried  on in the  second  half with  Cory  McDonagh  still confusing the  opposition  two get  us  further  down the  pitch .Jack Evans seemed to be  popping up every were  on the pitch  working  his  socks  of and  seemed to be  taking  a  battering but  kept  on going mad  was  a  pleasure  to watch .The  forwards  in Matt  Brearley , Oliver Szlachcic and  Daniel King again carried  on stopping most  of  west bowling  on  and  taken injuries to their  ribs  , sides but  kept  Meltham in the  game .Then  out  popped Cory McDonagh who hungry for more got  the  ball pretend to pass confused them weaved  through their  players and  others  to score  a super  try .It gave  us  some consolation to a  heavely fought game.

Man of the  match was awared to Jack Evans

Top tackler was awared to Daniel   King

Best  forward  to Daniel king Best Back to Sam Mate

Under 8’s Brighouse 28 v Meltham 24 

After a very slow start in the first half by Meltham All Blacks they gradually woke up & played rugby like they normally do.

Brighouse’s team were a lot stronger & bigger than the All Blacks but nevertheless they eventually overcame their fears  and had a great game.

During the first half Meltham hardly had any possession of the ball which put Brighouse in front with a great lead.

However, after the team talk at half time it was a different story. Within the first 2 minutes of play Top Tackler Joe Morrison scored a fantastic try, the first of 2, which  caught the Brighouse side unawares.

Then along came another try from Top Trainer Adam Szlachic and another one immediately after which confused the opposition as the ball started off with Most Improved Daniel Tinson passing to Harley Dyson and finally to Kyle Longbottom who scored another try for the team.

New recruit Thomas McInerney enjoyed his first ever game for the All Blacks.

Captain & joint M.O.M Allan Karrasch scored a fantastic try by jumping on a loose ball & then running the length of the field in his first try for the All Blacks.

By this time the Brighouse side were tiring as Meltham were back on top form.

Luke Fletcher was fantastic at off loading the ball which confused the opposition  a couple of times & led to him scoring another try for the team.

With only a few minutes remaining a try by Harry Jackson was disallowed but once again they pulled it back & joint M.O.M Darren Douglas scored a try just before the final whistle blew.

Brighouse were now exhausted & Meltham felt great as they pulled it back to within 1 try. What a fantastic 2^nd half.

In idyllic playing conditions both Meltham All Blacks & King Cross played their game quickly & confidently. No sooner had a tackle been done then the ball was immediately played catching the young Meltham side out a couple of times. Nevertheless, they fought back in every area making their coaches really proud of their efforts.

Once again their training sessions paid off as their tackling was outstanding & far better than their first game last week.

Top Tackler Joe Morrison proved awesome yet again but was closely followed this week by team mates Kyle Longbottom, Harry Jackson, Adam Szlachcic & Captain Daniel Tinson.

Top Trainer Allan Kerrasch proved his weight in gold alongside fellow All Blacks - Darren Douglas, Joshua Staincliffe, Harley Dyson and Luke Fletcher who was excellent at passing the ball quickly & confidently.

M.O.M Joe Morrison showed his speed by running the length of the field to score the first try for the All Blacks and also scored a further try later on in the game.  Kyle Longbottom earned Most Improved this week by doing a quick side step and change of direction away from the opposition to earn another try for the All Blacks.

Numerous attempts were tried to further enhance the score but to no avail.

Joshua Staincliffe did well in his first game of the season yet once again it was a great team effort as the drives from Harry Jackson, Harley Dyson, Luke Fletcher, Darren Douglas Adam Szlachcic & Allan Kerrasch almost hit double figures.  This young side had a tremendous game & fought hard in all areas which made both coaches & parents on the touchline very proud of their efforts.

Meltham All Blacks Under 9s, 52: West Craven, 44

Meltham prevailed in a thrilling, high-scoring game to seal victory against a determined West Craven side. Both teams were strong in offence, scoring freely in a match that was closely contested from beginning to end.

Stephen Reilly, who was named most improved player, was solid throughout, putting in some brave tackles against strong opposition, while Thomas King drove forward at every opportunity.

Jake and Liam Smith, in only their second ever game, gained in confidence, with Jake breaking away in his own half before being tackled close to the line. Jordan James put in a committed performance both in defence and attack, always gaining valuable yards against some spirited defending, but West Craven found it hard to contain both Louis and Innes Senior, whose strong running earned them thirteen tries between them. Louis, carrying on his form from the previous week, proved unstoppable with his combination of pace and an eye for a gap, earning him nine tries and the Man of the Match award in an exciting, fast-moving game.

  Under 10’s   Meltham 6 v Selby 47 

It was going to be an easy game but from the start Meltham pushed with all their might and started to hold Selby back in the first half.  Daniel King was ever present in his punishing runs what was confusing them but Meltham could not get through the Selby line.  Then out popped a well work routine which Dan King got onto ran in and out of Selby defence.  He  then got  into trouble and  managed to pass it  out to William Suchecki who pushed with all his might but got  tackle and  was able  to stretch his body  over to score  for  Meltham . High light to first came from Sam mate who gave his all and kept the wing covered with some excellent display and neat passing

Second   half started so well Oliver Szlachcic and Dan King doing their up most    keeping the centre under control.  Matt Brearley kept punishing Selby line to keep us up in their half quite a number of times.  Meltham’s only other chance of a try came from Jack Evans who weaved through Selby line and managed two get us in their 20.  It got to fifth and last the coach gave the nod to Oliver Szlachcic  to take his chance and  in turn who he thought got it over  the line and so did the supporters.  The referee had other ideas and gave a harsh decision and said it was hand over.  It was the end to a poor game with Meltham coming unstuck in a hard fought game.

Man of the match by the other team was giving to Sam Mate and Daniel king

For excellent performance

Best forward was giving to Oliver Szlachcic

Best back was giving to Sam Mate

Top tackler was giving to Oliver Szlachcic and Sam Mate

Under 9s. West Bowling 16 v Meltham All Blacks 16

Meltham gained an impressive victory over a strong West Bowling side in their opening match of the season. In wet and windy conditions, Meltham took the game to West Bowling, Louis Senior showing his excellent running ability with two early tries. West Bowling quickly responded with a try of their own, setting the scene for a committed performance by both teams.

Liam and Jake Smith should take heart from a good showing in their first ever game for the All Blacks, while Stephen Reilly and Thomas King were keen to impress with their work rate and commitment.

As the game continued Meltham began to take control due to strong drives by Jordan James and the intensity of Innes Senior’s tackling. Louis Senior used his speed and strength to great effect as both teams tired, scoring a further four tries, taking his total to six in all. Innes Senior’s sterling effort earned him the top tackler award. Innes also added two tries of his own, winning him the Man of the Match award as Meltham completed a splendid performance against a good West Bowling team in difficult conditions.

Meltham under  10’s        Away at King Cross   0 Meltham All Blacks 50

Meltham’s under 10’s are certainly putting the excellent coaching into practise, with a performance nothing short of brilliant.   Within seconds of the kick off, Christian Pestell (man of the match) was over the whitewash for his sixth try of the current season, not converted, Meltham kicked on. 

With Dominic Kendall shortly after making it 8-0 to the visitors, the writing was already on the wall, when he steamrollered through the King Cross defence.  With Darren Walker tackling his socks off at dummy half and King Cross in possession,  they were met by the strong All Blacks defence and hardly got past the half way line.  Irving caught the ball on the full on the fifth and ran 20 yards, with Jamie Atkinson (best trainer) backing up.

Jack Clifford came off the wing to find some work and picked up a spilled ball from King Cross and a clean pair of heels were all the home side saw.  Converted by Walker (0-14).  Jordan Williams then danced his way without a hand being laid on him, rewarded with a try, converted by Reece Craven. 0-20

Getting closer to half time, but still time for Kendall to burst through, whether down the centre of the field or on the wing, no one was able to stop the in-form forward getting two more tries in quick succession.  (0-30)

With the wintry weather making the conditions difficult, the ball often went to ground, but Meltham made the most of their opportunities, with Williams and Clifford adding to their tally before Louis Lawrence unselfishly gave Alex Zatorski the ball five yards out.  (0-42)

Conor Donaldson, Ryan White and Joshua Elam were defending Meltham’s proud record, their performances improving week on week, made sure that the game was going in the right direction.   With Haworth making dummy half his own, confidence at Meltham is at an all time high, with Pestell and Kendall rounding off the game, ten minutes before time, coach Williams is a very happy man! (0-50)

Under 8’s   West Bowling 24 v Meltham All Blacks 16

What a courageous attempt in the first game of the summer season. Not only

did both teams encounter difficult opponents but also fought against severe

elements of nature. Both teams battled on against powerful winds, rain, sleet, hail and snow which was a victory in itself.

Meltham All Blacks were great on both attack and defense but missed out overall by 2 tries. Captain Kyle Longbottom led the way by helping new recruits Daniel Tinson, Allan Kerrasch, Darren Douglas and Luke Fletcher in their first ever game for the All Blacks whilst Joe Morrison, Joe Cassidy, Adam Szlachcic,Harley Dyson and Harry Jackson continued growing in knowledge from last season.  Every player deserved Man Of Match for their efforts during the game but in the end it went to Joe Morrison along with the Top Tackler accolade for outstanding performance not only in defence and attack but also for scoring 2 tries.

Luke Fletcher got Most Improved this week for his fantastic attempts in all areas in his debut game for the All Blacks.  All team members proved that their training on ball handling paid off with excellent passes by Tinson, Kerrasch & Dyson.

Further tries then came from Jackson and Top Trainer Douglas.  However if it was not for outstanding tackling by Longbottom, Cassidy and Adam Szlachcic then the score may have told a different story.  What a great attempt by the All Blacks on their first game of the season.

The first half promised a very exciting game where Meltham seemed to keep the opposition at bay. There was very good defence from Daniel King and Oliver Szlachcic who kept Keighley in the centre of the pitch. It came apparent that the wings were taking a battering with and the side taking a lot of stick from away supporters but Sam Mate (top tackler) and Joe Martin worked hard to keep the Meltham wings closed.  First try from Meltham very quick play by Oliver Szlachcic on Keighley 20 who passed to Cory McDonagh who dummied them score a big cap and calmly crossed over the line.

Second half seemed to send Meltham to sleep the match slipping out of their grasp.  Meltham only got one try in the second half from Jack Evans who kept Keighley guessing, and ran them all over the pitch.  This paid off because he tricked them and piled over the line.  His hard work ensured he was awarded Man of the Match.  Special praise in the match went to Cory McDonagh for his hard work in the first half and unfortunately due to a freak knock will be out of the game for a few weeks.  All his team mates wishing him a speedy recovery and look forward to his return to action.

Meltham under 10’s       Wyke 14  Meltham 42      1.3.09             

In-form Jack Clifford for the All Blacks was quick out of the blocks and first over the whitewash.  Unlike last week, the team had brought their kicking boots with them. (0-6).  With much improved Cameron Hirst backing up, and Darren Walker working extremely hard at dummy half, the ball was getting out wide and Wyke struggled to keep up with Meltham’s hectic pace.

Hirst then came up with a brace of tries when his clean pair of heels danced around the defence, split up the would be opposition and put Meltham firmly ahead.  Converted respectively by Walker and Jordan Williams to make it 18 nil to the visitors.  However Wyke were able to slip through, with some help from Meltham’s poor defence.  18-4 to the visitors.at the break.

Wyke were much more eager second half, and made it harder for the All Blacks, but with Dominic Kendall, Christian Pestell and Alex Zatorski taking charge with their endless drives, made sure Wyke would tire.  Clifford came up with his second, converted by Joshua Elam, and shortly after he made it to his hat-trick. 

Leading try scorer Kendall, powered down the right, unstoppable with his incredible hand offs, there was no way he would not score from this position.  Pestell was unlucky as Wyke tackled him into touch after a strong drive.  Wyke replied to make it 8-32 but Meltham had done enough to secure the victory.  Lewis Bull, as usual was in the thick of the game, with RyanWhite tackling alongside.

Well in control at 32 -8 the visitors consolidated their performance which was a great team effort with Zatorski and Kendall putting the game well and truly out of the reach of the home side.  Wyke had the last say, but it was little consolation for the ever improving Meltham side.

 Keighley Cougar Cubs 16                Meltham All Blacks 10

This tough away fixture saw Meltham narrowly miss out on stealing the points away from Keighley who had already won this fixture but due to a change in the league early in the season, had to replay it.

          Meltham scored first with strong running from Oliver Kirk and Elliot Morris getting Meltham into good field position allowing centre Alex Markowycz to score out wide which David Dyson unfortunately could not convert the extras. Keighley came straight back to make the score 6-4 at the break. Unfortunately Keighley then scored after the break to take the score to 12-4 before Elliot Morris came back with an effort which David Dyson converted to bring the visitors within two points of the lead with eight minutes remaining. Full credit to Keighley for ceasing the initiative, and crossing the whitewash, to seal the victory and reinstate the points which they fairly won at the beginning of the season.

          This win puts Keighley top of the table above Meltham on points difference. The last league fixtures is this weekend before the playoffs, Meltham can finish top of the table if they win at home to main title rivals Kings Cross. Fingers crossed.

           Man of the match was given by the Keighley coaching staff to David Dyson. Best forward was Oliver Kirk and best back went to Alex Markowycz.

Under 11’s

Moldgreen 16 v Meltham 12

The game started strong from two well balanced teams giving their all. Then a sloppy defence error let Moldgreen first on the score board. That did not down hearten Meltham because there was flair and excitement in the moves.  It paid off because they pushed Moldgreen all way up and Meltham’s passing paid off with Joe Martin getting on to the ball and his skill past the Moldgreen line scoring with ease.  The wings were working overtime Chris Brearley tackling and attacking has been showing improvement over the last couple of weeks it paid off.  He was stopping everyone in their tracks with the excellent support to his team mates keeping the wings covered all the time .

Second half started as the first with another error by Meltham putting Moldgreen up again.  Meltham’s passion for the game came to the fore. Joe Martin (Best Back) started playing in his new position and it paid off because he was making some excellent tackling time and time again. The punishing work from the team started to have an effect because Moldgreen were struggling with Jack Evans who kept side tracking the opposition every time putting his body on the line every time. Meltham kept Moldgreen in their half may times with some powerful tackles from Daniel King (Man of the Match and Top Tackler) and  Oliver Szlachcic (Best Forward). Lewis Fletcher put his body on the line because his runs were getting up the pitch which paid off because one good run which Jack Evans got on to the ball weaved his way through and Dan King pushed his way it ended up with two players on him but managed to get over the line to equal the scores. Meltham kept Moldgreen at bay but they managed to creep over again with a set play. Meltham stepped up  a gear defence worked overtime. They pushed up with all their might.   Cory McDonagh sidestepped the opposition which got us up in their half but they just ran out of time to heavily fought game.

Under 10’s

Meltham 34 v Siddal 6

The All Blacks started off this game at blistering pace, and could have ended up with a cricket score, when captain Jordan Williams (Top Tackler and Man of the Match) shook off the young defence of Siddal to dance his way over the whitewash for his tenth try of the season.  Jordan Irving’s (Best Back) confidence growing week on week, was unlucky not to score but his wise head gave the ball to Kendall (Best Back) five yards out, with his experience walked in.  It was all one way traffic, but Siddal were eager with Aiden Elliott and Callum Holroyd  making the All Blacks work for their points.  Siddal showed great pace and strength, especially out wide with Finley Hickey and Bradley Ryan breaking from the would be tacklers of Meltham.  Christian Pestell (Best Forward) showed his strength, when carrying six players on his back up field covering a good thirty metres, giving his team mates great field position, it was easy for Alex Zatorski and Dominic Kendall to put the Under 10’s firmly in the driving seat, 18-0 at the break.

It was all change in the second half, with Meltham’ s big squad, lucky coach Alan Williams was able to experiment with his team.  The smaller players in stature but not in ability, rose to the challenge.  Ryan White (Trainer of the Week) was enthusiastic when tackling and drove the ball confidently at the defence.  Kelan Hwarth also took the ball out wide and made good yards, linking well with the hookers Howard Bull, Conor Donaldson and Darren Walker, with some very quick plays of the ball, Siddal were struggling to keep up.  Winger Cameron Hirst (Most Improved), fast and confident made it 22-0 cruising down the sideline and Kendall added to the total when he returned to the field.  Siddal replied and converted 22-6.  Meltham however had left their kicking boots at home, and were unable to convert 7 out of their 8 tries.  On-form Jack Clifford added another to his try tally, as he can do no wrong at the moment, as another pacy winger used his speed to go over.  Reece Craven not to be missed out was pushed over from 5 yards out to end the game on a high. 

The ten men of Meltham battled hard for their well deserved victory against the improved Rangers side.  On an extremely muddy pitch, Meltham playing uphill, it was the home side that put the first points on the board with some nifty running from the half back to bamboozle the defence and he cruised down the left wing.

On the next play of the ball, the All blacks captain Williams (top tackler award and man of the match) was like a hot knife through butter when he received a great pass which deceived the defence and evened up the game (6-6).

On the large pitch, it was a day for the forwards Kendall, Craven and Pestell to make good yards driving the ball nearer to their try line, and Bull (best forward) showed he is no push over getting stuck in with defending Melthams superb playing record.

Then Kendall, ball in hand, steamroller the defence on the left wing and powered his way for a nice little touchdown in the corner which he converted, 12-6 to the visitors.  Most improved award went to Josh Elam who after a shaky start, tackled hard and made good yards when he had possession.  Brighouse replied immediately, but were unlucky not to convert.

In form Clifford (best back award), again his great pace on show, turned the rangers inside out as they struggled to match his speed and skills as he sped past to increase the lead. (10-18).

Zatorski, Donaldson and Lawrence continued to put pressure on Brighouse and again made good yards, but  Brighouse were still not done and replied, making a tense finish to very good game. (16-18)

It was a team performance from start to finish but Williams sealed the game when he danced through to seal the victory for the Under 10’s who stood up today and were counted.  Well done!

Meltham playing up hill first, took the lead early on with some powerful running from Kendall to ease his way through the Queensbury side.(4-0). Hirst showed his class when he finished off in the corner.  With another try to add to his tally, his explosive speed adds another dimension to home side’s arsenal.  Converted by Walker (10-0).  Walker (best forward) was on overdrive today and seemed to be everywhere on the field with his terrier style tackling putting the all blacks firmly in control.

Queensbury’s side were greatly improved from their last meeting in October.   Robson just one of their very pacy runners letting Meltham know they had a game on their hands.  Ten yards out from their line and Meltham were defending well against the Queensbury attack, Clifford (top tackler and best back awards) took the ball up the right hand side, with his awesome pace and strength he ran the full length to put the ball under the posts.  (14-0).  And to finish the half, a lovely hand off from Atkinson to Williams (man of match) to seal the first half with William’s try making it 18-0 at the half.

Queensbury’s first points came from a knock on, with some excellent passing and their quick turn of pace, a very deserved try.  18-6 Pestell from the restart took the ball at a gallop to a metre out, Zatorski had the next drive but was pushed back in field, Hirst managed to get the ball to Walker who took it on the angle to score in the right hand corner.24-6

Clifford turned up the gas with another fine try and was working hard in defence as well (top tackler and best back award)(28-10).  Haigh (top trainer), Bull and Craven (most improved award) were steadily working away, laying the platform for Kendall who steamrollered his way through the young Queensbury side. (32-10).  Pestell, unlucky not to score earlier, with great determination was not going to be stopped this time, again in by the right hand flag. (36-10).

But Queensbury never gave in and brought it back to 36-16, with the home side having the last word, Kendall rounding off with his brace 40-16.

Under 14's National Cup     01/02/09

Askam 14 Meltham 22

After last weeks win against a good Yorkshire league team Meltham had a three hour journey up to Cumbria to play previously unbeaten Askam. With the hosts boasting 8 players in their regional service area and 5 in the Cumbrian squad this was always going to be a tough game for Meltham. Coaches Andy King and Richard Baines arranged for the team to arrive two hours early so they could aleviate any travel weariness and prepare the players for the tough challenge ahead. This seemed to have the desired effect as the boy's set off at a blistering pace with some massive hits knocking the big Cumbrian side out of their stride. Sam Rochford's quick thinking from dummy half enabled him to weave his way through for the first score. Tre Miller was on the end of some great handling to barge past several defenders to score an unconverted try. With Meltham starting to take control there was a long delay after a massive hit from Jack Thompson resulted in the home teams stand off being helped from the field. Before Meltham had regained concentration Askam scored a well worked try. With half time approaching and Meltham defending on ther own line a big tackle by Corey Noel and Liam Burke dislodged the ball George King picked it up avoided the cover and raced 90metres to score. Half time 16 points to 4.
In the second period Askam were the first over the white wash before Corey Noel showed real speed and footwork to go round the cover and finish under the posts. Askam tried everything to get back into the game but with Meltham's strong running forwards and resolute defence Askam could only manage a late consolation try. Top tackler was Corey Noel and man of the match for his awsome defence and strong running from fullback was Liam Burke.

         Meltham’s twelve match winning streak came to an abrupt end on Sunday when they were taught a lesson in desire and want by an Elland outfit boasting only eleven players. The differences between the teams being Meltham were lazy in every aspect of the game; Ball retention, line speed, marker play and missed tackles being the main culprits on this occasion. Maybe a lack of conviction in training and complacency allowed the usually dominant Meltham side to take their eye of the ball or maybe they were beaten by a better team on the day. Irrelevant of any of the previous excuses, which are now fish and chip paper (old news), What really matters now is the way in which the team bounce back from this minor set back and with this Sundays game being at home to Keighley cubs, a team which we normally contend with and have some well fought, close contests, there will not be a better time to test the determination and character of the title chasers Meltham.

          Four tries were all Meltham could muster against the Elland team who had speed to burn all over the park. Morris, Haigh, Gledhill and Zatorski (first for the season) were the try scorers with Dyson adding two conversions.

 Man of the match went to Cameron Haigh for an improving performance in the new stand off roll. Best back went to Jack Zatorski for taking his one opportunity and finishing a nice sweeping passing move to score in the corner. Best forward went to Oliver Kirk for never giving up, even when an ankle injury threatened to bench him out of the game. And Congratulations to The Elland team who well and truly deserved to win on the day……..looking forward to the return boys.

Sheffield Hillsborough Hawks 6           Meltham All Blacks 36

          Meltham All Blacks U13’s travelled to South Yorkshire this week on a sunny and cold January morning to take on the Hillsborough Hawks in their own back yard, with the two teams not having met on the field for over eighteen months in which Meltham were victorious, anticipation was high throughout the team and dedicated parent support unit.

The large and eager Hawk’s squad were well up for this challenge and they proved this with the first score under the posts after a string of handling errors by the Meltham outfit placed themselves under unnecessary pressure resulting in the try which was converted and later proved to be their only score of the match apart from a disallowed score which was ruled to be a knock on over the line. Meltham needed some stability in defence and the introduction of the utility forward duo of Oliver Kirk and Elliot Morris off the bench certainly gave the All Blacks this with Morris making some electrifying tackles and topping the tackle count with twenty tackles. He also made the first clear break of the game for the All Blacks and touched down under the posts to allow the captain David Dyson to add the extras effortlessly. Morris later added another try to his tally. Half time score, 6-12 to the visitors.

The second half saw Meltham play some of the best attacking rugby they have produced this season with all the action taking place in the opponents half. They were playing intelligent rugby and working the forwards into channels out wide before the half back partnership of Cameron Haigh and Dyson were connecting with the three quarters and wing men converting a lot of sets into tries with Charlie Slater picking up a brace, Kirk the same and Alex Clapham adding a further. Dyson converted four from seven attempts at goal. If the All Blacks continue to play with this flair and assertion in attack then a realistic title challenge is on the cards, keep up the good work men. Best forward went to Jacob (big baz) Green for a big improvement in work load and presence on the field. Best back went to Cadmen Melbourne for a try saving tackle in the dying moments which clattered the bones of the opponent. Man of the match went to Charlie Slater for setting personal target goals and meeting them plus bagging a brace of tries, his best of the season.

Under 11’s

Meltham 30 v 24 Greetland

It all started fast for Meltham and Greetland replied with a quick try. Meltham then started to batter the Greetland defence all the up to their line. Oliver Szlachcic got ready to play the ball saw an opening and did his trademark sneaky push through the line to score. It all seemed to be going from one way to the other for each team because they replied straight away. Meltham next try came from a good strong pass from Cory McDonagh to Daniel King who in turn powered his way up to their top corner and his speed was no match for Greetland to score. First half saw some brilliant moves from Sam Mate his tackling was top notch because nobody could get through the wings he was patrolling. Then out popped Daniel King who got on to good passing by Meltham and made it two tries for Meltham. The first half was showing some brilliant powerful runs from Oliver Szlachcic, Nathan Gray and Matt Brearley who in turn was pushing, battering Greetland all the time because it paid off and he finally scored from all his hard work.

Second half Greetland replied with an easy try due to an error by Meltham. That resulted in some quick passing and Daniel king saw a gap and made it a hat trick of tries for his tally.  Meltham managed to keep the opposition at bay with some strong tackling from Lewis Fletcher and William Suchecki.  All through the match it was noted that full back Jack Evans was always strong in his work rate his moves excited the crowd because he could move through the opposition with ease every time. Finally Daniel King showed his dominance time and time again it paid because he made a convincing four tries .It was well deserved win for Meltham because their work and commitment paid off.

Daniel King was awarded man of the match for his great performance and top tackler. Jack Evans was awarded best back and Matt Brearley was best forward.

Under 10’s

Meltham 30 v Slaithwaite 14

Local rivals, Slaithwaite, arrived full of enthusiasm, to play on a heavy pitch on this cold, sunny morning – kicking off they took an early lead.  This gave Meltham the wake up call they needed and with a strong run from Reece Craven through the Slaithwaite defence to even the score.  With the conversion under their belt Meltham took a 6-4 lead. Once again Slaithwaite scored, and this time converted to bring the score 6-10.  With Jordan Williams and Jack Clifford performing some good tackling, and strong driving from the forwards the game started to swing in Meltham’s favour again.  Meltham’s perseverance paid off when Dominic Kendall powered over the line – following the conversion Meltham now had a 12-10 lead.  Darren Walker quickly scored by running through the visitors defence, followed by yet another conversion.  Slaithwaite who kept on playing and fighting for chances scored on the stroke of half time leaving a score of 18-14 and everything to play for in the second half.

Meltham kicked off and instantly put Slaithwaite under pressure, forcing them to lose possession well into their own half.  An excellent drive from Alex Zatorski and some nimble footwork from Clifford left the visitors in no doubt that Meltham wanted the win.  Meltham were now in control of the game, with Josh Elam catching the ball to diffuse the Slaithwaite attack.  The Meltham defence stood strong with Williams, Walker, Conor Donaldson and the forwards all holding their nerve to defend a set of 6 within 10 yards of the try line.  Two further tries from Kendall gave him his hat trick, and Meltham the game. A well deserved win for the Under 10’s.

Man of the Match – Alex Zatorski, Best Back Jack Clifford, Best forward Dominic Kendall.  Top Tackler was Jordan Williams, who also made Trainer of the week.  Most improved Josh Elam and Kelan Haworth.

Meltham All Blacks u’13’s 26    Victoria Rangers 14

After two previous attempts to play this fixture falling foul of the arctic conditions, it was a relief to finally get this semi-final tie underway on a blustery Sunday morning in Meltham.

With both teams having only lost one game so far in the league, it was going to be a great contest with a place in the final up for grabs for the victors. Both teams at times played some expansive football with most of the scoring being done in the first half, the second half was a much closer affair with only two unconverted tries being awarded, one to each team.

Meltham won the toss and chose to go up the hill and face the howling wind head on, hoping that the slope and wind behind them in the second half, might give a psychological advantage. Vic Rangers were the first to strike with number six Liam Worby proving yet again that he has speed to burn with one of his trademark efforts around the wingman to break 50 yards and score next to the posts, making the conversion a sure thing for the kicker. Meltham responded well within a few minutes with some great passing moves across the field to gain some great field position which allowed the ever improving Fraser Morris to cross over with several rangers players hanging on for dear life and try to prevent the score unsuccessfully. David Dyson was unable to add the extras into the wind. Victoria rangers then came straight back with a response after a deep restart kick was fumbled by Meltham and gathered by the hungry rangers attack before scrambling over the try line to regain the lead to 4-10. It wasn’t long before Elliot Morris came through on the first of his hat trick to allow Dyson to even the scores. Rangers then learnt that kicking short at the restart to the mighty Oliver Kirk will only result in him taking a clean catch before bursting through the Rangers line and sprinting half the field to touch down next to the posts making the conversion a lot easier for Dyson in high winds. One more score for Elliot Morris before the interval allowed Dyson to convert and give Meltham a 22-10 advantage going into the second half with the wind behind them.

The second half was a different contest with ferocious tackling and powerful individual runs from both sides making the contest much more evenly balanced. It was Rangers who looked like taking the initiative with a score wide of the posts putting extra pressure on the wobbly Meltham defence. But these doubts were soon put to rest when the ever impressive Elliot Morris showed his calibre and rounded of his hat trick with a step and dart ten yards from the Rangers line which ensured Meltham safe passage through into the final at the end of the season.

          The man of the match awards were hard to pick but the following three people give outstanding effort week in, week out in training and their efforts on the field are reflecting this.

           Best back went to Alex Clapham for a great effort in his first go at hooker for the team. His presence is being felt more and more every week in the team and is becoming a vital cog in the running of the machine. Best forward went to Fraser Morris for a good score, second highest drive count and excellent work load at marker play. Man of the match went to Elliot Morris who again shone in attack and defence and kept his cool when rangers tried to wind him up. He also had highest drive count and a hat trick of tries to help him earn the award. A special mention to Oliver Kirk & Scott Gledhill for massive efforts in defence and Cameron Haigh who had a solid game in his new position as stand off replacing Joe Wood who has left the team and moved to Australia. His presence will be missed. Well done the All Blacks.

Under 11’s King Cross 26 v Meltham 24

Meltham started very shaky and were a bit lost for their first game back after the Christmas break. That let King Cross come with two quick tries from very sloppy tackling errors by Meltham. The first try came quick play by Cory McDonagh who received the ball and  ran down to the  bottom corner then he did a clever pass which tricked the opposition because he  kept hold of the ball and piled the ball over the line . King Cross came back with two more tries which gave them a convincing lead up to half time .That seemed to spur Meltham on because they pushed King Cross all the way back up their line and it got to fifth and last. Oliver Szlachcic got ready to pass the ball out Cory McDonagh he then had different ideas he sore a opening their line and slotted Meltham second.

Second half arrived  the team talk seemed to pay off because Meltham attacking picked up as Cory McDonagh’s quick thinking moves started to work. Matt Brearley power started to worry the opposition and Daniel King’s legs were working overtime, every time he got the ball he got Meltham further up the pitch. A new system which was brought in by the rugby league seemed to pay off because half back Oliver Szlachcic had the freedom from Meltham twenty to run with the ball and he battered the opposition every time he did. Meltham’s next try came from fifth and last, Slachcic ran with the ball and realised he could finish the run and out popped Jack Evans who in turn finished the run and scored which made it 20 to 18 to King Cross. That kept King Cross on the back foot because Meltham stopped every sent to them there was top tackling by Evans   at Meltham back which crushed them time and time again. The last try came from precise pass which Daniel King steamed over King Cross players from half way and piled over the line that made it 24 - 20 to Meltham. They thought it was Meltham win but slip up gave King Cross the lead back. With a few minutes left Meltham pushed them in their half with some brilliant efforts from William Mitchell and Ryan Hirst and the wing was very solid with Lewis Fletcher and Joe Martin being as hard as nails. It finished a very enjoyable game and if Meltham had started as they finished we would have gone home with a win.

Daniel King was awarded top tackler with Jack Evans been awarded man of the match by the opposition for his full back and quick moves in the scrum. Cory McDonagh was awarded best back for his desire to up his tackling rate and Matt Brearley best forward for his runs .

Under 10’s       Meltham 26 v West Bowling 12

Meltham’s first game of the new year, after a six week break, and both the home team and opposition looked rather rusty.  Bowling with the slope to their advantage in the first half showed pace, tenacity and guile.  At times it was more by luck than management that Meltham did not concede any points.

The All Blacks tried very hard, but with very cold conditions, the ball went to ground on many occasions.  Darren Walker (man of the match) made some great yards up the middle of the park, to put Meltham in a great position and the spectators were treated to some lovely passing combinations, with Alex Zatorski, Christian Pestell and Conor Donaldson (best back) linking nicely.

It took 15 minutes before the homeside were outwitted and Bowling opened up the scoring, with excellent play to go in near the right hand flag. Try converted (0-6) at half time.

The game turned around for the All Blacks as soon as the whistle was blown, possibly because the slope was now in Meltham’s favour.  Pestell’s power was key when he forced his way through under the posts in the first minute after a Jordan Williams (top tackler award) darting run, with Jamie Atkinson and Jack Clifford backing up, looking for their opportunities (4-6).

With Reece Craven‘s (best forward) new found confidence this year, he shortly found his way over the whitewash, converted by Walker.  And Lewis Bull who was very unlucky not to score as his confidence grows, made sure the game was ebbing towards the All Blacks. Atkinson made his mark on 13 mins, not unlucky for him though as he showed a clean pair of heels to add to his season tally. (16-6)

Dominic Kendall, made sure of the victory with a great run nearly the whole length of the field, and a try in the corner as reward.  This was converted by Donaldson who was unlucky not to be the top tackler. With Jordan Irving (most improved) and Josh Elam (top trainer award), Ryan White getting better week on week, their improved tackling skills on show.  Craven finished off with a brace of tries but was unable to convert.  Lots more to work on in 2009.

Sheffield Hillsborough Hawks 6           Meltham All Blacks 36

          Meltham All Blacks U13’s travelled to South Yorkshire this week on a sunny and cold January morning to take on the Hillsborough Hawks in their own back yard, with the two teams not having met on the field for over eighteen months in which Meltham were victorious, anticipation was high throughout the team and dedicated parent support unit.

The large and eager Hawk’s squad were well up for this challenge and they proved this with the first score under the posts after a string of handling errors by the Meltham outfit placed themselves under unnecessary pressure resulting in the try which was converted and later proved to be their only score of the match apart from a disallowed score which was ruled to be a knock on over the line. Meltham needed some stability in defence and the introduction of the utility forward duo of Oliver Kirk and Elliot Morris off the bench certainly gave the All Blacks this with Morris making some electrifying tackles and topping the tackle count with twenty tackles. He also made the first clear break of the game for the All Blacks and touched down under the posts to allow the captain David Dyson to add the extras effortlessly. Morris later added another try to his tally. Half time score, 6-12 to the visitors.

The second half saw Meltham play some of the best attacking rugby they have produced this season with all the action taking place in the opponents half. They were playing intelligent rugby and working the forwards into channels out wide before the half back partnership of Cameron Haigh and Dyson were connecting with the three quarters and wing men converting a lot of sets into tries with Charlie Slater picking up a brace, Kirk the same and Alex Clapham adding a further. Dyson converted four from seven attempts at goal. If the All Blacks continue to play with this flair and assertion in attack then a realistic title challenge is on the cards, keep up the good work men. Best forward went to Jacob (big baz) Green for a big improvement in work load and presence on the field. Best back went to Cadmen Melbourne for a try saving tackle in the dying moments which clattered the bones of the opponent. Man of the match went to Charlie Slater for setting personal target goals and meeting them plus bagging a brace of tries, his best of the season.

Under 11’s

Meltham 30 v 24 Greetland

It all started fast for Meltham and Greetland replied with a quick try. Meltham then started to batter the Greetland defence all the up to their line. Oliver Szlachcic got ready to play the ball saw an opening and did his trademark sneaky push through the line to score. It all seemed to be going from one way to the other for each team because they replied straight away. Meltham next try came from a good strong pass from Cory McDonagh to Daniel King who in turn powered his way up to their top corner and his speed was no match for Greetland to score. First half saw some brilliant moves from Sam Mate his tackling was top notch because nobody could get through the wings he was patrolling. Then out popped Daniel King who got on to good passing by Meltham and made it two tries for Meltham. The first half was showing some brilliant powerful runs from Oliver Szlachcic, Nathan Gray and Matt Brearley who in turn was pushing, battering Greetland all the time because it paid off and he finally scored from all his hard work.

Second half Greetland replied with an easy try due to an error by Meltham. That resulted in some quick passing and Daniel king saw a gap and made it a hat trick of tries for his tally.  Meltham managed to keep the opposition at bay with some strong tackling from Lewis Fletcher and William Suchecki.  All through the match it was noted that full back Jack Evans was always strong in his work rate his moves excited the crowd because he could move through the opposition with ease every time. Finally Daniel King showed his dominance time and time again it paid because he made a convincing four tries .It was well deserved win for Meltham because their work and commitment paid off.

Daniel King was awarded man of the match for his great performance and top tackler. Jack Evans was awarded best back and Matt Brearley was best forward.

Under 10’s

Meltham 30 v Slaithwaite 14

Local rivals, Slaithwaite, arrived full of enthusiasm, to play on a heavy pitch on this cold, sunny morning – kicking off they took an early lead.  This gave Meltham the wake up call they needed and with a strong run from Reece Craven through the Slaithwaite defence to even the score.  With the conversion under their belt Meltham took a 6-4 lead. Once again Slaithwaite scored, and this time converted to bring the score 6-10.  With Jordan Williams and Jack Clifford performing some good tackling, and strong driving from the forwards the game started to swing in Meltham’s favour again.  Meltham’s perseverance paid off when Dominic Kendall powered over the line – following the conversion Meltham now had a 12-10 lead.  Darren Walker quickly scored by running through the visitors defence, followed by yet another conversion.  Slaithwaite who kept on playing and fighting for chances scored on the stroke of half time leaving a score of 18-14 and everything to play for in the second half.

Meltham kicked off and instantly put Slaithwaite under pressure, forcing them to lose possession well into their own half.  An excellent drive from Alex Zatorski and some nimble footwork from Clifford left the visitors in no doubt that Meltham wanted the win.  Meltham were now in control of the game, with Josh Elam catching the ball to diffuse the Slaithwaite attack.  The Meltham defence stood strong with Williams, Walker, Conor Donaldson and the forwards all holding their nerve to defend a set of 6 within 10 yards of the try line.  Two further tries from Kendall gave him his hat trick, and Meltham the game. A well deserved win for the Under 10’s.

Man of the Match – Alex Zatorski, Best Back Jack Clifford, Best forward Dominic Kendall.  Top Tackler was Jordan Williams, who also made Trainer of the week.  Most improved Josh Elam and Kelan Haworth.

Moorend Marauders 0                                               Meltham all Blacks 64

Meltham and Moorend were the only teams from the west riding u13’s to play a game in this round of the league as cold and ice postponed all other games. But Meltham didn’t let the 110 mile round trip send them to sleep either as they battled the arctic conditions and a determined Moorends team to come away with the spoils.

          Meltham tried to pass their way around the Moorends defensive line early on in the game and found success early on through Morris and Greg Thompson out wide. Once the small Moorends team had tired it was a more direct approach that has been successful for the strong Meltham pack so far this season and it continued to do so with a powerful short range try from Aiden Egdell under the posts and further scores from Morris (five in total) Meltham led at the break 28-0.

          After the short rest Meltham turned the screw even more and continued their dominance over the tiring moor side. Oliver Kirk continued his brilliant form that saw him bag two tries and set Cameron Haigh up under the sticks for another. Scott Gledhill had an excellent performance in his usual number 1 jersey mopping up all the loose balls at back and even contributing with a try when he darted and stepped three players to score under the posts to earn him man of the match. Captain David Dyson was at the centre of the engine room working many scrums and plays and converting 10 of the 11 conversions (although the try scorers were kind enough to place the balls under the sticks) Best forward went to Elliot Morris for his 20 point contribution to the game and best back went to Greg Thompson for a score and a solid performance all round.

        A special mention has to go to the team in general for the way in which they conducted themselves on the field around some of the smaller Moorends players who were playing a year above themselves. Even at times when the Moorends defence was being frustrated and a few naughty shots were being targeted against the Meltham attack, Meltham kept their discipline and it was applaudable to watch.

          Next week sees Meltham travel to Kings Cross for what should be a much tougher and more tightly contested game.

Under 14’s

Newsome 22 Meltham 36
 
Although not playing at their best Meltham were still able to overcome a spirited Newsome side. Newsome were the first to score in an even first period, but Meltham soon hit back when Toby King put out a great pass to put his brother George through a gap to score out wide. Sam Rochford scored a good individual try to take the lead before Newsome scored again. Big H levelled things up just before the break when he powered over from close range half time 12 points each. In the second period Meltham were much more dominent even though they were on the wrong side of a lop sided penalty count. Jack Thompson crossed out wide to regain the lead. With the forwards making inroads into the Newsome defence they began to take control. Kyle Charles capped a man of the match display by scoring two tries one of which was a length of the field effort breaking several tackles before rounding the fullback to score under the posts. Big H finished the scoring barging over from twenty metres. Three players shared top tackler. Big H, George King and Sam Rochford.   

West Bowling 10 v Meltham 16

West Bowling broke to score 6-0. Shock wake up call for Meltham who came back hard, good tackling from Jordan Williams, Meltham came close to scoring but knocked on to be disallowed. Meltham got their reward when Jordan Williams kicked for Jack Clifford to collect and drive over the line, got kick to make it 6-6.

Strong tackling from Reece Craven and Jamie Atkinson, Jordan Williams put in an excellent tackle to save West Bowling from scoring and force the turn over.

West Bowling came back with some good running, Meltham had upper hand with Dominic Kendall making some good yards to put the score all even into the break. West Bowling kicked off into touch giving Meltham the advantage going downhill. Meltham came close to scoring with Clifford making a good run. Darren Walker bust through West Bowling to give Meltham a deserved lead getting the conversion to make it 6-12.

Meltham came back strong again with Dominic Kendall smashing through West Bowling defence to get the try and conversion to make it 6-16.

West Bowling got a consolation try just before the final whistle to make the final score 10-16 and give Meltham a well earned victory.

Trainer of the week went to Jamie Atkinson, most improved to Kelan Haworth, best back went to Darren Walker, best forward to Dominic Kendall, top tackler with 26 tackles went to Jordan Williams and man of the match awarded by the away coach was Jordan Williams.

Under 11’s

Meltham 10 v West Bowling 34

It all started with great expectations for a good win.  Meltham started with fire in their bellies, pushing West Bowling straight back up their line. Meltham’s first try came from a good set which saw the ball passed out by the magic hands of Cory McDonagh who in turn passed to Daniel King  who powered over the line. The next came from struck out in back Meltham twenty the ball was cleverly passed out which Daniel King got onto and ran full length of the pitch to score.  The forwards were pushing all the  time Matt Brearley (best forward) used his power every time which in turn broke  Cory McDonagh (best  back) to use  his magic to get  Meltham further every  time. The defence were taking a good battering but Oliver Szlachcic (top tackler) and Daniel King (man of the match) did their upmost to keep them at bay. The entire match Lewis Fletcher was showing some great brilliance in his attacks and his defence work improved all through the match which earned him joint man of the match.

Under 13’s

Victoria Rangers 18        v                               Meltham All Blacks 34

Meltham secured another two points in this tough away game to the Bradford outfit. With a late start due to an unforeseen frosty pitch, Meltham made a brilliant start with good set completion and some nifty passing work, they were a couple of scores up through Oliver Kirk and Elliot Morris before Rangers decided to make a start.

Meltham continued their good progress throughout the game except for the occasional wobbly moment in defence which saw the Rangers claw their way back to within two tries of the visitors after the break, but Meltham tightened up to complete the victory with two more tries from Morris, a further try from Kirk and one apiece from Joe wood who got best back and Cameron Haigh. The difference between the teams was clearly the pace of attack that Meltham executed upon the tiring Victoria defence although special mention goes out to the Rangers squad who have worked extremely hard to improve on last seasons win count and have so far not lost their previous seven matches before this clash. A deserved mention also to the two prop forwards of Meltham Aiden Egdell and Josh Holmes Who both had great games and are improving with every game played. Captain David Dyson found the conversion rate hard going in the thick mud and cold conditions and could only manage one of his seven attempts, but unlike previous games, the try tally ensured that Meltham didn’t need the extras this time.

Man of the match went to Elliot Morris for joint top tackle count, top drive count and a hat trick of tries. Best forward went to Josh Holmes on debut for the team.

Under 14’s

Sheffield 18 v Meltham 28

Due to sickness Meltham were missing several key players, including one of last weeks try scorers Aiden Addy and so were only able to field 12 players.  Then Connor Robertson received a leg injury in the first set (and played on) but if Sheffield thought they were in for an easy ride, they were in for a shock!  Big H led from the front and produced a massive hit on the Sheffield Prop.  With every player playing to their true potential it was not long before Meltham gained the upper hand.  Sam Rochford (back playing in his best position at Hooker) went over for two tries in quick succession - both from set moves.  George King broke the line on halfway and beat the cover to score in the corner.

Strong running from ever-improving Kyle Charles burst through three tackles to score under the posts.  Sheffield hit back just before the break to make the score 22-4 to Meltham at half-time.  In the second half, Meltham’s defence was in outstanding (bone-crunching!) form, containing a top premier division side.  Man of the Match and Top Tackler Sam Rochford completed his hat trick after a kick through on the last tackle.  It was only fatigue and the fact that Meltham’s injury problems were taking their toll, that allowed Sheffield to score 3 late tries, making the score look more respectable.

Meltham 34     v      Wyke 12

Hip, Hip, Hooray, the sun has got his hat on! -  like the weather, the All Blacks got off to a bright start, with some early good driving runs from the forwards Christian Pestell and Dominic Kendall but again errors starting to creep in.  The first ten minutes Meltham spent most of their time in Wyke’s half but the nine men of Wyke were holding their own and it was a good ten minutes before Jack Clifford went over after some wonderful passing down the line by Jamie Atkinson and Jordan Williams (top tackler and man of match) which sent him over in the left hand corner. (4-0)

Wyke then took the ball down field and were making many yards with each drive. They showed outstanding pace and it was hard to believe they did not have a full squad on the park.  They matched Meltham in every department, but Meltham have great depth and many skilled players in their side to rely on.  Pestell five yards from Meltham’s line drove the ball in straight and the next play from dummy half, Williams was jinking through the Wyke defence.  Try converted by Williams (10 - 0).

Not impressed by Meltham’s talent, Wyke went over when Meltham’s defence went to sleep.  With Darren Walker dancing up field and getting some cheap yards gave Meltham great field position, and then a kick on the last, a very high ball, caught adeptly by Cameron Hirst, gave Meltham a comfortable lead.  Conor Donaldson and Jacob Kaye were moving the ball out wide from the dummy half and Joshua Elam and Lewis Bull working hard on their defence.  But again Wyke fought back to make it 14-8.

With a mistake from the kick off when Hirst gathering the ball was dragged into touch due to the very wet conditions, it looked like Wyke were going to draw level.  However the nine men of Wyke were tiring, and were unable to reply to the tries from Alex Zatorski, Williams and Clifford - the game was put to bed.  Wyke never gave up and made Meltham look ordinary at times.  Meltham will have to dig deep next week if they wish to keep their winning record going.

Under 11’s

Selby 46 v Meltham 6

It started with a very long way for Meltham to travel. The Meltham team was very well pumped up for the game. It all went wrong from there when Selby hit Meltham like a train going through Meltham defence time and time again. Meltham tried in vain to push forward with Matt Brearley and Nathan Gray been ever present in their drives up the pitch. Daniel King did  his utmost to power  his way up the pitch getting as far as he could and been very close to the touch line to be stopped.  Also Lewis Fletcher’s performance against the big opposition was impressive.

Second half did not get any better William Mitchell and Jack Evans were showing some magic - forcing their way up the Selby line.  With the  score 42  to nil it got to fifth and last Daniel King  gave the sign to Oliver Szlachcic to kick the ball up the  pitch and  Daniel King  was there to retrieve it and score  a consolation try for Meltham.  Special praise has to go to Daniel King, Jack Evans, Oliver Szlachcic (man of the match) and William Mitchell for their tireless work in defence because if not for them the points against Meltham would have been far greater.

Under 14’s

Huddersfield Sharks 0 v Meltham 54
 
Huddersfield Sharks put up a brave effort but were totally outclassed by the more skilful and well drilled Meltham outfit.
 Meltham made there intentions clear right from the start, Kyle Charles led the way with some bone rattling tackles. Sam Rochford proved what a good finisher he is scoring three first half tries in a man of the match display. Other first half tries were scored by George King and Corey Noel. Half time 26 to 0. The sharks tried to put pressure on Meltham’s defence in the second period but with full back Liam Burke in top form there was to be no way through. Midfield playmaker Toby King Directed the attack creating havoc with the sharks defence and setting up several tries. Further scores came from Lucas Baines, Jack Thompson, a brace for power house prop Mikey Holmes and a second for top tackler Corey Noel.  

Under 15’s

Meltham 36 v Queensbury 12

Although the result was excellent against the team that beat Meltham to the league title last year, the team performance was a different story this wasn't just an excellent performance it was an OUTSTANDING team performance from all the players involved.  The players had been asked to perform more as a team rather than individuals on a regular basis and this was the end result being one of Meltham’s best performances by far over the last 2 seasons.  Apart from the opening 3 minutes Meltham never really looked under threat going up the hill and in fact had majority of the ball and played some nice controlled rugby.  Meltham’s defence was incredible and but for the bad pitch conditions would have held Queensbury out for the full 30 opening minutes.  Queensbury were the first to open the scoring and shortly after took a 12-0 lead, but that was the last time they were to even come close to scoring another try. After some excellent play the forwards carrying the ball up the field, on the 4th tackle just inside the Queensbury half Sam Crowe made a superb solo break scoring under the posts to bring the scores back to 12-6. After some excellent defending holding Queensbury back the ball was spilled allowing Meltham to apply pressure on the Queensbury line resulting in Sam Crowe to score his 2nd try of the game, being converted by Sam Hirst bringing the scores back to 12 all the score remained like this up to half time.  The result now was never in doubt as Meltham’s backs were now the ones to take the game by the scruff of the neck.  The tackling and attacking approach by the backs laid the foundations for the forwards to gain advantage over the Queensbury forwards gaining yards at every attempt and not giving Queensbury chance in attack. Further tries were added by Tom Sugden, Jamie-Lee Fox, Sam Hirst, Josh Zatorski and Jordan Williams. This was an outstanding team performance and result where every player deserved a good slap on the back. Tackle of the day and a much improved performance was by Thomas Boothroyd. Well done lads from the coaches and parents.

Best Forward - Sam Hirst

Best Back- Nathan Richardson

Players Player - Jamie-Lee Fox

Coaches’ player of the week - The Whole Team

What a stale match for Meltham the weather was terrible the pitch not any better. The defence tried their best against a very strong team but they could not stop them from getting through. It did not get any better in the first half Siddal just seemed to be getting through anything Meltham tried. The players on the wing were showing some brilliance with some try saving tackles from Sam Mate (best back). Cory McDonagh and Matt Brearley forward runs used all their strength to move up the pitch. The other wings were giving their own from Chris Brearley, young Lewis Fletcher put in great performance against strong opposition. The front line worked well from Daniel King (joint top tackler and best forward) also Oliver Szlachcic (joint top tackler) and Ryan Hirst put a steady performance. Jack Evans patrolled the back of the line with miltry persistance (man of the match).

Under  10’s        Moldgreen 16 v Meltham 32

Although the wheels came off Meltham’s chariot away at Newsome they were back in the driving seat this week.  In pole position Dominic Kendall who is looking to bag top try scorer award at the end of the season is showing the others how it’s done.  With some great passing skills on show from Jack Clifford (man of the match award) and Conor Donaldson, the magic paid off, to put Kendall in 10 minutes into the game, Clifford converted. (0-6)

Unfortunately the next ten minutes up to halftime Meltham lost their way slightly, in brass monkey weather with a bitterly cold wind at their backs, it was no wonder the ball went to ground.   This gave Moldgreen the confidence they needed and they hit back to make it 4-6 at the break.

With guidance from coach Williams ringing in their ears, the All Blacks started the second half brightly, when Jordan Williams starting to tantilise the defence with his darting and weaving runs Moldgreen slipped off first one tackle and then another - an outstanding individual performance. (4-12)

But Moldgreen hit back with a further two tries without reply and the game was going away from the visitors (16-12), but Kendall made sure his side were not going to take it lying down, bursting through the defence to make it 16 all.  With Christian Pestell’s conversion from far out, the All Blacks stepped up a gear, followed shortly after by a Pestell (best forward award) try from dummy half after good hard work from Alex Zatorski (most improved award), Jacob Craven and Jamie Atkinson up field had got them into a good position.

Zatorski then drove the ball between the sticks (16-26) and the chequered flag was in sight, Clifford finished off with some individual brilliance from 80 yards out and it was the top podium for this young side.  Excellent performances also from Lewis Bull (trainer of the week and best back), and newcomer Jacob Kaye. 

Keighley 18 v Meltham 42

Meltham started working together like well organised team straight away.  Meltham were pushing Keighley all the way back up to their tough line when Oliver Szlachcic did a sly pass to Lewis Fletcher who got the ball pushed his way thought their line and his pulsating run was no match for them he got his first try of his Meltham career with excitement of his team mates and father who was going mad with excitement. That did not stop Matt Brearley with his runs because he was knocking Keighley over the pitch with them running scared every time he got the ball. It paid off because one of his runs worked when he knocked them over and powered himself over the line .Meltham next try came from their last run and ball was passed to Cory McDonagh who judged Keighley line and kicked the ball up to the other end were Daniel king court the ball and placed the ball over the line. The last try from Meltham in the first half came again last run deep in the Keighley corner and half back Oliver Szlachcic pretended to pass the ball which sent Keighley in the opposite direction and Oliver pushed through the bottom corner and scored.

Second half with Meltham 22 to nil it should have been have been an easy start but Meltham fell to bits and Keighley scored threw and leaky defence. The coach must of giving them a good talking because Daniel King (top tackler) received the ball and glided it past the opposition to add his second. Keighley replied very quickly so it was time for Meltham big lads to stand up and Daniel King (man of the match) got the past to him and he glided over the line with ease. Next Meltham were up on on Keighley line and jack Evans got ball and ran with all his might and passed their players and dived with his trade mark dives to make his first for the match. It  was not finished for the lads they played their set  the ball passed to Cory McDonagh (best back) who tricked Keighley and passed a tied line and he scored without any problems. Meltham drives worked very well with Nathan Gray first season  got him into doubled figures and his hard work earned him best forward.  

Under 13’s

Meltham 16 v Siddal 12

Meltham gained a valuable win at home to a strong Siddal side. Usual tries from the likes of Oliver Kirk and Elliot Morris got Meltham into a strong position and looked to be in control of the game when a second half sin binning of Elliot Morris put Meltham under the cosh for the final five minutes. When Siddal scored with three minutes to go it looked like they were going to steal the game from the home side but some last ditch tackling allowed Meltham to keep hold of the lead and secure the win, an unconvincing one to say the least. At times Meltham looked lazy in many areas of the game and the two tries scored by Siddal were walk overs, many questions could be asked of the Meltham Defensive set up and most returned unanswered. To say the least, Meltham were lucky to get the win and at times, Siddal looked like the stronger outfit.

Besides the under performance of the combined team, there were some good contributions that deserve merit. Best forward went to Jacob Green for some strong runs and a well taken try from short range. Best back went to Alex Clapham for a noted defensive display that showed maturity and the determination when asked to stand in un-orthodox field positions. Despite his sin binning, Elliot Morris was deserved winner of man of the match, Highest drive count, second highest tackle count, a try and the want to put him self about and make up for mistakes made. David Dyson added two from three conversions contributing towards the win.

Meltham 0 v Dewsbury Celtic 8

Meltham again struggled to perform as a team. Individual players in attack and defence were good, but it's important that they all start putting these performances into a team effort.  Meltham were pretty much the dominant team throughout the game attacking and defending but the end results and good defensive work from Dewsbury stopped Meltham from scoring any points. Against the run of play Dewsbury scored in the top corner giving them 4-0 lead. After constant Meltham pressure seemed to gather themselves and press down field again and some slack defending allowed one of there players to go through 6 Meltham defenders to score there 2nd try giving them an 8-0 lead at half time.  Constant pressure from Meltham didn't allow Dewsbury out of there own half in the 2nd half but again dropped balls wayward passes stopped Meltham from scoring. The end result was 8-0 to Dewsbury. There was some good individual Meltham displays notably Huw Evans Josh Worrall Tom Sugden and Jordan Williams, this now needs to be converted into an all round team performance

Best back - Josh Worrall

Best Forward- Jordan Williams

Players Player - Josh Worrall

Under 14’s lost to Heworth in Yorkshire Cup

Under 13’s away on school trip unable to play in Yorkshire Cup

Under 11’s

Meltham 28   v Sheffield 12

Sundays game started with some great pace Meltham defence was very sold Sheffield struggled to get any were threw Meltham line. Their first try from their 5 run and Oliver Szlachcic did a clever trick to confuse Sheffield and dived throw Sheffield to put Meltham on the score sheet. The first half started to work to plan with ever body working together William Suchecki, Lee Fletcher, Sam Mate stopping ever on the wing to the delight of the coach who was hoppling up and down the touch line. Cory McDonagh determination time and time to push the ball up the pitch was paying off because Sheffield defence were lost.   Matt Brearley pulsating runs were breathtaking. When Sheffield managed to get the ball down the pitch full back Jack Evans was always there to turn back up the pitch weaving in and pushing harder and harder all the time.

Second half came Daniel King got on to ball and pushed his way up Sheffield defence and managed to get his name on the score sheet. Jack Evans got into the run weaved in and out of the line and stormed over to add his name to list of scorers .Out popped Cory McDonagh with clever step and sent Sheffield the wrong way and in turn passed to Daniel King to score a gain. That did not stop him again he powered again up the line and made his hat trick .The game showed brilliant workmanship of all the team with likes Mitch, Nathan, Sam Mate always every present in their assistance and special praise for Daniel king (man of the match) and Oliver Szlachcic (best forward and top tackler) for their excellent tackle count    

Under 10’s

Meltham 34 v Lindley Swifts 16

At home once again to Lindley Swifts, with a knock on from Meltham from the kick off, the swifts took early possession, Sylvester securing the points for his side with some quick footwork down the right wing.  Try converted 0-6. 

 The next five minutes saw plenty of lost balls, as the pitch began to churn up due to the previous weeks wet weather.  However Meltham under 10’s were eager to put their mistakes right and the spectators were treated to some first class passing from Kendall to Hirst, Atkinson (best forward) to Clifford then Donaldson, small but sure, ran uphill towards the post, giving a beautiful pass to Pestell for his first try of the season.  Walker converted - six all.

The tackling was out of the top drawer from Meltham and it had to be, Lindley’s Taylor and Costello keeping Meltham very busy with their strong running and busting drives.  As ever, William‘s defence was outstanding, darting about the field, not letting the swifts get into their own game pattern and making sure the only whitewash Lindley saw was the sidelines.  Another debutant Owen Horn for Meltham looks another good prospect for this expanding squad.

New to the club Hirst made sure Meltham took the lead, when Williams (top tackler, best back and joint man of match award) after a jinking run, unselfishly gave Hirst a walk in.  (10-6) Lindley took the lead again shortly before half time however Walker who was like a hot knife through butter, slicing through the opposition, before off loading to Kendall for him to score in the corner. Kendall converted 16-12)

 Meltham’s sliding defence was working well, and the all blacks were working for each other, none harder than Craven (most improved) and Zatorski, who kept make good yards with every drive.  However it was a dead cert when Williams went over that the game was getting out of the swifts grasp.  Atkinson growing in confidence scored his first and Donaldson dinked in by the padded upright to make it 30 - 12.  Kendall (joint man of the match) put the icing on the cake when he charged down the field to put the final points on the board.

Meltham 4 v Guiseley 4

Meltham first game in the coop tournament was against Guiseley. Meltham started with fire in their bellies,their tackling was outstanding time and time again Meltham were stopping everything in their tracks. Meltham only try came from a clever pass by Cory Mc Donagh to Daniel King who calmly eased over the try line. The game seemed to be ending to be a draw with neither side letting slip in their defence. Special praise the match went to all the team for their tackling and work rate.

Meltham 0 Brighouse 4

What a game this turned out to be Brighouse were determined to win at any cost parents as well. That was not going to stop Meltham to work as a solid team battling through Brighouse time and time again. Things were getting out of hand with players like Daniel king, Oliver Szlachcic, Jack Evans getting big hits out and defending very hard. Cory Mc Donagh runs weaving in and out of their line were sending Brighouse all over the place.Sam Mate and Lewis Fletcher were on the wing working very hard and together stopping all of Brighouse quick breaks.  William Mitchell and William Suchecki were ever present and solid at the back. Nathan Gray and big Matt Brearley pushing runs were hurting Brighouse every time .The game was marred by a big instance but over all Meltham worked very solid has a team

·         Man of the match was awarded to Oliver Szlachcic by his team with his excellent work rate.

·         Oliver Szlachcic was awarded top tackler.

Under 13’s

Meltham All Blacks- 44                        Huddersfield Sharks-10

Meltham continued their great form with a convincing win over the sharks. Sharks started off asleep to let meltham run some easy tries in with the first coming from Oliver Kirk after just 25 seconds on the clock.

          Sharks eventually came to life and created some pressure against meltham which led to their only try of the half to take the scores to 24 -4 at the break to meltham.

         Meltham continued strongly in the second half with all the forwards and backs working hard in support to create some good football to watch.

         Further tries from David Dyson, Jacob Green, Adam Worrall, Cameron Haigh and two from Elliot Morris saw Meltham take a firm grasp of the game. Dyson converted 6 from 7 of his kicks to continue his great kicking form with the boot.

          Best back went to Jack Zatorski, playing a year above his age group and on his debut for a good solid display. Best forward went to Jacob Green for a dominating job performed at prop and man of the match went to Joe wood for leading tackle count and joint top driver.

Queensbury 4  v Meltham All Blacks 30

Meltham’s first away game of the season, showed that the under 10’s side seem to perform well, away from home.  With a cracking start, the first try coming in the first five minutes, when Williams put up a lovely little kick on the fifth, a swift pass to Zatorski who drove straight towards the try line, to send Craven crashing over, under the sticks.  The All Blacks were unlucky with their conversion. Queensbury showed  some fancy footwork and Meltham let them in for an easy try. Soon after Meltham’s own twinkle toes (Walker - best forward) showed  his own style, and danced neatly through the would be defence to make it 4-8 to the visitors. Donaldson working at scrumhalf, was tackling like a demon (best back), with new comer Atkinson continuing to impress with his no nonsense attitude, get on with it approach (player of the week).  Bell who had little work to do in the tackling department made sure the All Blacks maintained their lead as he cruised nicely round the Queensbury defence to go over the whitewash on the right hand wing. Bell converted (4-14) on the half time whistle.

After the restart Pestell drove the ball 30 yards upfield from the half way line, a slick pass out to the left to Williams (top tackler and man of match) in support, who ran it in to the left hand corner.  With a few more mistakes in Meltham’s red zone, the gutsy under 10’s had to defend for long periods as the Queensbury’s side kept trying to break Meltham’s resolve.    Defence is now what the under 10’s are being recognised for, and sure enough they were rewarded with Clifford making his mark with his third try of the season.  Donaldson converted (4-24) and Kendall (most improved) rounded off to make it 4-28 after a determined run fending off the opposition for a well worked try. With a conversion from Pestell to make it 4 - 30, it was smiles all round.

Under 11’s

Guiseley 18  v Meltham All Blacks 32

Meltham’s third game of the season started very well their attacking was exceptional but their defence let them down and Guiseley were first over the try line. Young Lewis Fletcher did a punishing run throwing them all the wrong way. He was finally grounded not before one final stretch where Oliver Szlachcic received the ball and glided round the opposition to score Meltham’s first try. Meltham seemed to be on a run when on third run Oliver Szlachcic tricked the opposition and ran without passing then cleverly passed to a waiting Daniel King who in turn pushed over the line. Their next try was on the last run which Cory McDonagh did a sly little kick over to the other end there waiting was the big hands of Daniel King who calmly placed it over the line. The defence of Meltham was ever present with Joe Martin and Lewis on the wing working very well together and seemed to be stopping everything time and time again. After arriving late due to the traffic William Suchecki commitment to the game was paying off because nobody could get pass him .

Second half arrived and that seemed to not stop Meltham, Jack Evans was working harder and it paid off because his weaving through the opposition struck Guiseley off guard and he got his first try of the game. Evans again stepped up to the mark and made mince meat of the opposition to make it two tries. Meltham defence in the second was working the same has the first half Chris Brearley’s passion surely paid because his defence work came on in the game and stopped every thing in his tracks. Then out popped big Daniel King he received the ball from half way pushed the line over to make it a hat trick for him.

Under 13’s

Newsome 4 or 6?   v Meltham 42

A well drilled All Blacks side took advantage of the early mistakes made by Newsome in their own half.  With great pressure on Newsome’s line Elliot Morris crashed over for Meltham’s first try, which was converted by David Dyson.  Again, mistakes from Newsome ended in another try, which was scored by Oliver Kirk, again converted  from a tight angle by Dyson.  Morris crashed over again after more mistakes from the Newsome defence. Then with one minute from the interval Charlie Slater scored a well deserved try, his first of the season.  At the break it was 24-0. After the break Meltham carried on where they left off and Morris completed his hat trick.  After more forward pressure Adam Worrall scooted over to score his first try of the season.  Meltham slackened off and allowed Newsome to score a great individual try. Then with one minute left a great try from Cameron Haigh made it a great win for Meltham. Best back David Dyson converted 7 out of 7 goals,  Best  forward was Oliver Kirk and Man of the match was Elliot Morris.    

Greetland 48 v Meltham 50

What a quick start to the game Meltham started to push Greetland defence further up the pitch. Meltham line started to look very solid when out popped Cory McDonagh with a clever inside step that tricked the home team and went over the line. Out of nowhere Greetland replied straightaway which left Meltham lost. That was not going to stop them; Daniel King used his power to get through the line and replied with a very convincing try. The game seemed to be going one way then back again. It got to fourth run and Oliver Szlachcic tricked the opposing team with a dummy pass to one of his teammates he then saw an opening and slipped over the line. Meltham’s last try before half time came in the shape of new lad Sam Mate who again took an advantage of a gap and dived over the line to his team mates delight and scored his first try on his debut.

The second half starting with same pace as the first half Daniel King pushed through the defence weaving passed players and found William Suchecki who showed great skill and scored.  As the game went on Meltham kept letting their defence down and silly errors let Greetland take advantage every time. Then Jack Evans popped up after all his work to get the game moving up the pitch into the opposition end, he out played everybody and his speed and determination gave Meltham a convincing try. Big Matt Brearley had been very forward in his running through players every time; he then got through Greetland’s defence and stretched to put the ball over the line. Greetland let their guard down and Jack Evans saw the opening and ran to score again. The score was 44 to 42 in Meltham’s favour; with Greetland knowing they could snatch it with one more try. Meltham let their guard down and Captain Oliver Szlachcic let his emotions get the better of him and argued with an opposition player.  Greetland were awarded a penalty, and he then argued with the ref and got a ticking off.  With him now fired up he made three crushing tackles to stop them finishing the game off. Then Daniel King showed his pulsating power to push very close to the Greetland line knowing he could not get any further he then passed to Oliver Szlachcic who spotted the opening and got over the line. The score was then 50 to 42 with time to spare, Greetland replied with 2 more tries, but the visiting team remained the victors.

Man of the Match Jack Evans for hard work and determination.

Best Forward and Joint Top Tackler Oliver Szlachcic.

Joint Top Tackler Daniel King.

Under 13’s

King Cross 20 v Meltham 22

Meltham made it two wins from three with a close encounter away against a strong and well-organised King Cross outfit. Newly formed King Cross, which compromises of many players from last seasons champions Halifax Irish, started out slow.  This allowed Meltham to take an early advantage through an Oliver Kirk try and a David Dyson conversion. King Cross quickly came back with an unconverted try to make the score 6-4 to the All Blacks. The lead changed hands many times before King Cross stole it with a try, three minutes from time to take a 20-16 lead. Meltham had one more set to swing the game in their favour which they did with some stomping runs from the forwards to get within the oppositions 20 and set Elliot Morris up with the try that took the teams level.  David Dyson was left with the pressure task of converting the score take the lead and win the game, which he did to take his tally to three from four and continue his great form with the boot.

Further tries came from Elliot Morris and Greg Thompson who collected a high ball in the corner from Dyson to take his first try of the season.

In a game of high tension and many mistakes it was anyone’s guess who got the awards but Best Back went to Joe Wood for a solid general performance all round. Best forward went to Oliver Kirk for his usual high standard of consistency and man of the match went to Scott Gledhill for topping the tackle and drive count in the backs and his extremely solid all round show.

Under 14’s

Meltham 52    Keighley 0
 
Meltham were too good for a brave but outclassed Keighley side, rattling up points at will and showing a ruthless side to their defence.
It took a while for the side to get into their stride but once Sam Rochford crossed the line after a neat pass from Toby King there was no looking back. George king added the second try and was successful with the conversion. Next on the score sheet was new signing and outstanding prospect Kyle Charles showing good speed and strength to race to the line from 40 metres out with his first touch of the ball.
In the second period Meltham dominated the opposition with some punishing defence led by man of the match Liam Burke.  Further tries were scored by Corey Noel, a great individual effort from Jack Thackeray. Lightning fast winger Connor Robertson crossed twice, Kyle Charles got his second and Sam Rochford finished the scoring with his second. George King rounded off a good day by kicking 8 out of 9 conversions 

Under 10’s

Meltham 12  Moldgreen 8

The game started off just like the weather – absolutely scorching!  Moldgreen had much of the possession for the first 10 minutes.  The All Blacks kept losing the ball near the Moldgreen line and gave away a penalty for a high tackle. The first serious attack came from Meltham.  Jordan Williams (top tackler) scooted 50 yards down the field, before Jack Clifford neatly picked up Williams’ kick on the last.  Clifford was then unlucky with the conversion just under the crossbar.  Moldgreen’s defence on top were straight into the All Blacks from the kick off.  Christian Pestell managed to fend off a couple of would be tackles before going into touch 10 yards out.  With a very close half, 4-0 at the break Conor Donaldson (best back), Lewis Bull (most improved) and Dominic Kendall had to tackle for all they were worth.

The second half started with individual brilliance from Kendall who fended off 3 Moldgreen players from 75 yards down field to run uphill and score in the left corner.  With Donaldson continuing to lift players off their feet, and Darren Walker (player of the week) darting between the opposition they stopped Moldgreen in their tracks.  With the visiting side making it a fantastic game to watch, Moldgreen’s number 10, after looking particularly dangerous with ball in hand, then going over for a try – Nice Play!

The All Black’s new players continued to improve with the experience Pestell and Williams showing them the way.  Pestell (man of the match and best forward)had tackled himself to a standstill with 15 of his19 tackles coming in the first half – he drove the ball forward and was unlucky not to score, as was Cameron Hirst after a 70 yard run on the left wing his try was disallowed for going into touch.

Then from 10 yards out twinkle toes Williams weaving in and out, before Kendall went over for his second try.  Moldgreen’s number 10 had the last say making it 12-8.  A great game to watch!

Under 11’s

Sheffield 30  Meltham 16

What a good game to the start of the season, Meltham started the game slow but got themselves going after Sheffield scored. Their defence picked up some crunching tackles from Meltham.  In the first half Jack Evans was showing to some great, skill with his pulsating runs which paid off with him weaving through Sheffield line to score excellent try.  Sheffield kept coming back with more and Meltham’s strong tackling from the likes of Oliver Szlachcic, Evans and Daniel King kept the opposition at bay, and out of Meltham goal line time and time again.  Just before half time approached out popped Cory McDonagh with legs like rubber he slipped in out of Sheffield line and scored with ease.

Second half came with the weather beating down it did not seem to dampen Meltham players because they still were putting in some good performances Joe Martin and new player Nathan Gray stopped Sheffield from getting over the line. The score seemed to be slipping away from Meltham and out jumped Evans to supply Meltham with a consolation try.  After a very hot and sticky day the team put on a solid performance with special mention on their debut to Lewis Fletcher for his explosive contribution and Nathan Gray for solid performance.

Man of the Match was King for his outstanding performance thought the pain barrier.

Best Back was given to Jack Evans.

Best forward was given to Matt Brearley for being ever present in the game.

Under 13’s

Meltham 48 Moldgreen 16

All blacks dominate in local top flight derby.

Meltham back to full strength following last weeks crushing loss at Keighley proved too much for a Moldgreen team that on paper, should have took the two points home.

Meltham made full use of the home advantage and continued to build on the home form that has seen them become a daunting team to play against on the Broadlands recreation ground.  It was Moldgreen who made the first mark on the score board with a great break and 50 yard dash from the three quarters. It took this to wake Meltham up and realise they were in a game against good opposition before they equalled the score and continued to build with great attacking running from Oliver Kirk and Elliot Morris who went on to score four tries. Meltham made a lead of 30 points to 6 by half time.

After the break, Moldgreen answered back with two tries, one converted and looked like they could be making a late comeback before Meltham stepped on the gas to thwart any chance of the late upset.  Further tries were added by Scott Gledhill. Joe Wood and David Dyson who was back from injury and steadying the ship as captain and goal kicker with an impressive haul of eight conversions from eight attempts to earn him best back.  Best forward went to Elliot Morris for his usual display of jaw dropping tackling, immense running and 16 points to his name. While man of the match went to Cameron Haigh, for his impressive return following a concussion the previous week. His work around the play the ball at marker was textbook and his workload in general is impressive and always improving.

But individual performances aside, the entire team worked tirelessly in defence and offence to make this one really pleasurable, and a truly deserved win. 

Under 14’s

Under 15’s

WR Cup match

Meltham 18 – Sheffield HH 24

After losing 6 players for the beginning of the 2008/2009 season you would have understood if Meltham were to struggle in their opening West Riding Cup game against a team who had the experience of playing in a higher division last season.   Meltham proved a formidable force against a big strong Sheffield team.   Meltham had the advantage of going down the slope in the first half, applied all the pressure on Sheffield who rarely managed to venture out of their own half.  But for a few lost balls Meltham may well have scored early on but had to wait till midway through the first half to benefit from all the pressure put on the Sheffield line.  A strong defence turned the ball over the Meltham then the expansive play and strong running enabled Sam Hirst to score the first try which was converted.  Five minutes later after excellent defending from Meltham again the ball was again turned over and Jordan Williams made a break from Meltham 30 yard line scoring out wide which gave Meltham a 10-0 lead.  The scorching playing conditions started to show when five minutes before half time after foul & abusive language from one of the Sheffield players the ref had no alternative but to send him off.  The heat really taking it’s toll as he was walking off the pitch whilst arguing with one of the Meltham players he surprised everybody even his own team by running over and kicking the Meltham player. The home side were warned that this would get the Sheffield side even more determined and would need to dig deeper to deal with this.

The 2nd half started off exactly as expected with the Sheffield players running hard & tackling hard, and this paid off immediately for them scoring a converted try.  Only a couple of minutes later Sheffield again benefited from some slack Meltham defending to score a converted try giving Sheffield a 12-10 lead.  The All Blacks got their act together in defence & attack and with some outstanding tackles from Sam Crowe, Huw Evans and Christian Summers Meltham turned the ball over and after powerful running from Josh Zatorski, Sam Crowe & Nathan Richardson enabled Matthew Speight to cross over giving Meltham an 16-12 lead.  Shortly afterwards Meltham got a penalty in front of the post which was converted giving them an 18-12 lead with five minutes to go.  Sheffield rallied and succeeded in crossing the Meltham line to bring the scores level sending the game into extra time.  Both teams by this point were tiring, and the hot weather wasn’t helping. 

The first half of extra time was uneventful with both teams staying strong in defence and not giving the other team any chances still serving up some good hard rugby.  The second half was nearing the end, with the crowd fearing the ‘golden try’, but Sheffield made the break, and came out winners scoring 2 minutes from the end of extra time leaving the score at 24-18.  Well done to all the lads who played hard & in very hot conditions. Every player played their part and deserve the praise.

Best Back - Nathan Richardson  - Best Forward - Sam Hirst   - Players Player and Top Driver - Jordan Williams       -Top Tackler - Sam Crowe

Under 10’s

Meltham 26    King Cross Park 4