The first half was a tight affair, with neither side managing to create clear scoring opportunities. The only score came from a Moortown penalty when West were penalised for not retreating ten. A 3-0 half-time deficit, whilst disappointing, could obviously be overturned, but unfortunately it was Moortown who started the second half the stronger, and within two minutes they had scored a try in the corner after West lost possession trying to run the ball from their 22. Another try in the opposite corner a few minutes later cemented their lead, and meant West would have to improve dramatically to stay in the competition. However, West could not put together any fluent passing movements, with the Moortown back-row and centres tackling quickly and aggressively, and they were finding it difficult to threaten the opponents’ line. Although they assumed more territorial dominance as the half progressed, they still never really threatened the Yorkshire side’s line. All credit to an excellent Moortown defence.
The final score of 13-0 was a fair reflection of the game. The West players described their performance as a ‘mare’, but Moortown’s display was certainly the best West have faced over the past two years, and was a major factor in preventing West playing to their potential. To put the defeat into perspective, one Moortown coach pointed out that it was to West’s credit that Moortown could put in such a performance and still “only” win 13-0.
Under 17's out of cup
By Jon Dewhirst - March 7 2005
No points, no win, no cup run, and no complaints. West were deservedly beaten by a Moortown side that, on the day, were better in all areas of the game.
West had Arun Gupta, Rob Bellerby, Gareth Eddy and Michael Young unavailable, but welcomed back Tom Dixon after injury.