LATCHFORD Albion – and Latchford Alliance – launched their 2018 campaign with pre-season friendlies following a recruiting drive and increased participation in training.
The Albion side hosted Woolston Rovers and despite a score line of 10-24, gave their higher level opposition a good test.
Albion’s points came from tries from Chris Griffith and Luke Hickman with one conversion from Griffith. Head coach Lee Smith said: “There are a lot of positives to take from this game. We had three players on debut and with three players returning to the club after time away from the game, this showed the strength we have within our squad .
“The new recruits all fitted in well and once fully up to speed with all our plays and structures, this will put is in a stronger position for the season ahead.
“We took a lot of positives from the game and it also showed where we need to improve to ensure we have a successful League campaign.”
The Alliance team hosted Rylands Sharks and despite a 4-20 defeat, again showed great promise for the future. Alliance’s try came from Reece Forrest, with stand out performances from the returning Jake Ashton and new recruit Jack Phillips also being heavily involved. The alliance forwards also held their own in a committed performance. Captain Rick Metcalfe said: “I am very proud of every player who pulled on a shirt today. While we have had a few training sessions as a squad, today was the first time we tested ourselves and despite the result, it was an encouraging performance. The challenge now is to keep increasing numbers and provide regular competition throughout the squad.”
With pre-season continuing ahead of the season opener on March 3, Latchford are still looking for players of all abilities to further enhance the squads and offer an opportunity for new, or returning players, to achieve whatever potential they wish.
Latchford Alliance
