West started like a house on fire with 3 quick tries from Riggers, Armstrong and Allott all converted by the Fiji teams best mate - Danny Quinn. 21-0 In the blink of an eye.
We then thought it would be a good idea to wrestle with Horden which is never a good idea. Their big strong lads took hold of our skinny little lads and the points dried up.
Horden took hold of the remaining 30 mins of the half and looked the stronger to leave the half time score at 21-7.
The coaches gave a calming and constructive talk at half time which obviously worked - except Horden scored a great try after some good forward displays. Graeme Holloways men were now looking the more likely.
West had to knuckle down and so they did, playing in the correct areas of the pitch. Jon Hunter and then Sammy Miller were beneficiaries of the correct patterns of play and despite Horden coming back into the match with a couple of scores, West scored again regularly through Tyers and the ever entertaining Hadwen.
Special mention to Jass, Sammy and Jim Tyers who were outstanding. Further mention to Jim Tyers for travelling home to play the match from the Lakes and then travelling back again after the game. Top notch.
Final score West 41-22 Horden and the Lee
Great credit should go to all of the players who made the game a decent one to watch.
Stags: Angus, Mould, Hunter, Hadwen, Tyers (c) McClurg, Miller S, Simmo, Armstrong, Quinn, Scott G, Allott, Jassy, Immie, Riggers.
Reps: Edwards
Tries - Riggers, Armstrong, Allott, Hunter, Miller, Tyers, Hadwen
Cons - Quinn (? - a few)
Referee - Mark Jude (Durham)
Food - pasta and chicken. A firm favourite.8/10