STEVE HAZZ MATCH REPORT
Tigers edged out in season opener at Park Lane
On Saturday, the Tigers kicked off the new season with a home fixture against Reading outfit, Rams. Last year’s honours were even, with both sides recording home victories, and this clash promised to be another tight contest.
The Tigers had prepared well in pre-season, recording strong wins against Preston Grasshoppers and Macclesfield, but knew that facing an experienced and powerful National One side would be a major test.
Bright start for the Tigers
The hosts began with real intent, taking the game to the visitors and forcing play deep into the Rams’ 22. Sustained pressure paid off when new centre Zane Ainsley broke the line superbly to score the first try of the season. Fellow debutant Josh Ree converted to give the Tigers a 7–0 lead after eleven minutes.
The pressure continued, and eight minutes later Ree extended the advantage with a penalty, making it 10–0.
However, the Tigers were dealt a blow when fly-half Charlie Wardle was forced off with an injury, disrupting the attacking shape. Rams then came back strongly, and after repeated scrums on the Tigers’ line, the referee awarded a penalty try, closing the gap to 10–7.
Ree’s second penalty nudged the Tigers further ahead, but just before the break Rams’ forwards powered over through their hooker. At half-time it was finely poised at 13–12 in favour of the Tigers.
A tense second half
The visitors struck early after the restart, building phases before crossing for a try that put them 13–17 ahead.
The Tigers responded brilliantly. A penalty gave them a line-out deep in the Rams’ 22, and the pack produced an outstanding drive, finished off by flanker Lewis Bradley. The Tigers were back in front, 18–17, with momentum on their side.
For much of the half, the Tigers kept Rams pinned in their own territory, with the visitors only making progress through penalties. As the clock ticked into the final minute, Rams were awarded another penalty, giving them a line-out deep in Tigers’ territory. From there, they moved the ball wide and scored in the corner. The conversion was added, and the final whistle confirmed a heartbreaking 18–24 defeat.
Effort without reward
The Tigers took a losing bonus point, but there was huge disappointment at the manner of the defeat, coming with the very last play after such a monumental effort from the whole squad.
Overall, the performance was excellent. The defence was resolute, the scrum solid, and in attack the Tigers showed real shape and tempo. With a sharper line-out and a touch more ruthlessness, the scoreboard could have told a different story.
Next up is a mouth-watering local derby against neighbours Sale FC at Park Lane this coming Saturday. The boys will regroup and train hard – and your support will be vital in what promises to be a fantastic occasion.
Cheers,
Steve Hazz