TODAY’SMATCHSPONSOR–EVOLVEDOCUMENTSOLUTIONS
V BILLINGHAM RUFC SATURDAY, 5TH APRIL 2025 KO 15.00
OFFICIAL DIGITAL MATCH DAY PROGRAMME
ISSUE 13
www. fylderugby .co.uk
WELCOMETO THEWOODLANDS
04 05 07 08 09 10 11 14
Today’s Match Sponsor – Evolve Document Solutions Into the Archives – a feature on the legendary Mike Dixon Briersy’s & Lono’s Programme Notes St George’s Day 2025: Gentlemen’s Luncheon, 23rd April Lytham Festival Parking / Fylde Beer Festival FRCF Touch Rugby Festival, 24th May
CLUB OFFICERS President
Anthony Hoskisson
Chairman Secretary Treasurer
Matt Filipo Neil Riley
Mark Windows
Immediate Past President
Jeff Gould
GENERAL COMMITEE Chairman of Rugby
Mark Nelson James Jebson Mark Windows
Commercial Lead
M-J Chair
M-J Secretary Club Discipline
Neil Riley
Richard Todd
Safeguarding Officer
Hannah Davidson
1st XV appearances and scorers
RUGBY MANAGEMENT Chairman of Rugby
FRCF: Fylde Coast Come Dancing
Mark Nelson
Joint Head Coaches
Chris Briers & Alex Loney
Rugby Operations Manager Warren Atkinson Hawks Mgr Jay Harrison Hawks Coach Steve Gough Resources Manager Jordan McLaughlin Vandals Mgr Tom Nye Referee Liaison Sean Townsend 4th Official Ian Cosh 1st XV Support Oliver Wiseman Match Day & Fixture Official Patrick Townsend
17 18
Fylde’s new elected Officials
Fylde v Billingham photos, Sep 2023
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Big Match Preview – Fylde v Billingham RUFC Today’s Squads
20-21
MEDICAL Lead Therapist
22-23 26-27
Last time out – brave Fylde lose at Leeds Tykes The Locker Room
Molly Hart-Ryan
1st XV Sports Therapist
George Craine
Hawks Therapist
TBA
CLUB OFFICIALS Grounds & Maintenance Media, Comms & Archives
36 28
1sts, Hawks & Vandals fixtures
Patrick Townsend
Allan Foster
Gates
John Wilkinson
FRCF: Easter Camps
38-39 40-41
Rob King – from the Vandals to the 1st XV
STAFF General Manager Office Manager
Jack Little
Hayley Salisbury
Fylde U’14s reach Final of Lancs Cup
Bars & Catering Mgr
TBA
Chef
Daniel Koper
Fylde Rfc, Woodlands Memorial Ground, Blackpool Road, Lytham St Annes Fy8 4El, Lancashire Phone: 01253 734733 Email: info@fylderugby.co.uk
www. fylderugby .co.uk
03 3
TODAY’S MATCH SPONSOR IS EVOLVEDOCUMENTSOLUTIONS!
provide valuable insights, updates, and practical advice on document management, helping businesses stay informed and ahead of the curve. But perhaps the most exciting development is their TikTok channel, which has taken off in a big way. In less than a month, their videos have racked up over 10 million views. The channel blends humour, behind-the-scenes moments, and business insights, showing the fun and human side of Evolve.
Evolve Document Solutions: More Than Just a Name on the Shirt
When Fylde Rugby Club’s First XV took to the pitch this season, we were sporting a new name on their shirts: Evolve Document Solutions ( www. evolvedocumentsolutions.co.uk ). But who are they? And why does this partnership matter? To many supporters, sponsors can feel like just a logo. But scratch the surface, and you’ll find a company with strong values, deep local roots, and a genuine passion for supporting communities.
TikTok has become a major tool for businesses looking to expand their digital footprint, and Evolve is using it to great effect. Their engaging, relatable videos are helping them connect with an even wider audience, and there’s plenty more to come.
From Photocopiers to Partnerships
Evolve Document Solutions is based in Bamber Bridge, just a short drive from Fylde’s home ground. Founded in 2011 by Daniel Maddox, the company has grown into a trusted name in document management, specialising in high- quality Konica Minolta photocopiers and print solutions. But they’re not your typical print supplier. Evolve prides itself on doing things differently. Unlike other photocopier leasing companies, they don’t employ salespeople. Instead, they build trust through relationships, referrals, and solid customer service. Their aim is simple: to help businesses reduce printing costs, improve efficiency, and embrace smarter ways of working. Evolve owner Daniel Maddox says: “We’re about more than just selling printers,”. “It’s about making businesses run smoother, with less waste and less hassle. And if we can have a bit of fun along the way, even better.”
Making a Difference – On and Off the Pitch
Running a rugby club at this level isn’t cheap. From player development to maintaining facilities, every penny counts. Evolve’s backing helps keep the club thriving, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the sport. “Seeing the Evolve logo on the First XV shirts is a proud moment for us,” Daniel adds. “It’s great to support a club with such a strong tradition, but also one that’s looking forward and growing.”
Looking Ahead
As Fylde battles it out on the pitch, Evolve will be cheering them on every step of the way. We don’t think it’s any coincidence that seven out of first eight games with Evolve on our shirts were wins. And as the partnership grows, so will the opportunities to work together and make an impact. For Fylde fans, this is a chance to get to know their shirt sponsor. Evolve isn’t just another business. They’re a company that cares, supports, and believes in making things better – whether in the workplace or on the rugby field.
Values That Go Beyond Business
Evolve is built on transparency, reliability, and sustainability. They don’t tie customers into expensive contracts with hidden fees. Instead, they offer clear, flexible agreements tailored to real business needs. Sustainability is also key. Printing and copying will always be part of office life, but Evolve helps businesses reduce waste, improve efficiency, and lower their carbon footprint. “Printing isn’t going away,” Daniel explains. “But we can help businesses do it better – with less waste and less impact on the planet.” A key part of that approach is Agility, Evolve’s proprietary document management software, available at agilityscan.co.uk. Agility helps businesses digitise, store, and manage documents securely, reducing reliance on physical paperwork. By streamlining workflows and improving accessibility, it enables teams to work smarter and more efficiently, whether in the office or remotely. It’s another way Evolve is helping businesses modernise without unnecessary complexity.
So, next time you see the Evolve Document Solutions logo on a Fylde shirt, you’ll know the story behind it. And it’s a story worth telling.
www.evolvedocumentsolutions.co.uk www.agilityscan.co.uk https:/ www.facebook.com/EvolveDocS https:/ x.com/EvolveDocS https:/ www.linkedin.com/company/evolve-document-solutions/ https:/ www.tiktok.com/@evolvedocs
A Community Partner
Evolve’s involvement in local sports isn’t new. Over the years, they’ve backed clubs like Great Harwood Cricket Club, East Lancashire Cricket Club, and Cadley Football Club in Preston. Their annual charity golf day has raised over £25,000 for local causes. They don’t just sponsor sports – they get stuck in and make a difference. That’s exactly why Fylde Rugby Club was the perfect fit. “We don’t just want our logo on a shirt,” says Daniel. “We want to be part of something. Fylde is a historic club with a strong community, and that’s what we’re about too.” The partnership isn’t just about funding. It’s about shared values – teamwork, ambition, and making a real impact. Whether it’s helping businesses run more efficiently or supporting grassroots sports, Evolve is all about creating meaningful change.
10 Million and Counting
Evolve doesn’t just communicate through traditional means – they take a fresh approach to engaging with their audience. Their blog and newsletters
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INTO THE ARCHIVES: MIKE DIXON
Mike Dixon - Fylde RUFC 1978-1998 - a tribute by David Kerr David Kerr said: “Club members will have, hopefully, noticed that over the last couple of years many displays of memorabilia, portraits, shirts and photographs have been put up around the clubhouse, over 100 in total. The
“No lesser an alumni than Mark Nelson told me that if he had the pick the finest XV players for his all-time greats of the Club that Mike Dixon would be his automatic choice for hooker. A former captain of the Club told me that Mike was “probably the most accomplished all
original idea to create these displays was that of Mark Cadley who asked The Friday Club if they could complete the work and they readily agreed to do so. Alan Cavanagh created the work on the portraits and also made many of the frames. “One of the biggest challenges was the display created for one of the Club’s true legends, Mike Dixon. For this display The Friday Club joined forces with the Fylde Ladies and they jointly paid for and arranged for the display to be put up at the foot of the main staircase in the clubhouse. “Mike made his debut v Otley on 4th November 1978 and over the next 20 years made 416 appearances for the Club scoring 195 points, a remarkable achievement, for a hooker, considering the days of the “rolling maul” had not yet dawned. He was strong, talented and extremely mobile. He served Fylde as hooker, captain and coach and is a true legend of the Club. And he earned recognition way beyond the Woodlands being selected many times for Lancashire and eventually England ‘A’.
round player that has played for the Club.” A huge accolade considering some of the rugby talent that has appeared for the Club over many years. [Former 1st XV & Cumbrian centre and then Head Coach of Fylde and Cumbria, Stuart Connell, was asked about the best skipper he had played under. He took a nanosecond before naming Mike Dixon who he said was an inspirational leader.] “Thanks go to Mark, Allan, Fylde Ladies and Friday Club for creating the display for one of the Club’s greatest players. “When next you are walking up the stairs give yourself some time to look at the display, read the letters from the RFU and remember one of the Club’s all time stalwarts.”
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PHILL MILLS IS NEW HAWKS COACH
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BRIERSY’S & LONO’S & LONO’S PROGRAMME NOTES
Last week was a deserved week off for the Fylde squad, which was a run of 10 straight matches and training weeks. Over this period of the season, Fylde supporters and members have seen some mixed results. There has certainly been no panic within the squad but rather a clear mindset working towards what is needed to win matches in this league. Looking back to our last match vs Leeds, the above very much rings true. It would be fair to point towards factors such as players being out of position, bringing a player out of retirement etc… However, the squad that took the field vs Leeds was quality and showed exactly that. Leeds fully deserved their victory but we had the league winners elect in a serious match with the score changing hands in the first half and some key moments early in the second half where more pressure could have been applied.
can perform close to our best. This return match today will have plenty of emotion behind it with a Fylde team wanting to respond to a below par performance earlier in the season and a Billingham team fighting to stay in the league. Billingham play a brand of rugby with flair, courage and willingness to move the ball along with power to test the set piece. Hopefully the weather will hold up to the weekend and will be entertaining for all to watch. Enjoy the match!
The match today vs Billingham will be a stern test. Fighting at the other end of the table compared to Leeds, Billingham will come at us with the same determination to win the match and are clearly in form. Our defeat away at Billingham was the one Fylde performance this season where we felt that many things were off. This does not disrespect Billingham’s effort or talents, but we must always look at ourselves and making sure we
ELSEWHERE IN NATIONAL TWO (NORTH) TODAY
CHESTER
V V V V V V
WHARFEDALE HULL RUFC PRESTON G SHEFFIELD LEEDS TYKES
15:00
HARROGATE
14:00
HULL IONIANS
15:00
LYMM
14:30
SHEFFIELD TIGERS
15:00
TYNEDALE
OTLEY
15:00
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ST GEORGE’S DAY GENTLEMEN’S LUNCHEON, 23RD APRIL April is here & with it - St George’s Day!! Celebrate the most patriotic day of the year in England, with our Gentlemen’s Luncheon at The Woodlands An afternoon of entertainment alongside a four course lunch with arrival drink awaits For more information or to purchase your ticket ~ simply send us a DM
all season both on the pitch and also off it fundraising for their tour.
Travelling with a playing squad of 26 and coaches, everyone associated with the club are incredibly proud of the boys and all the effort and support that has made this trip possible.
From the Linlithgow RFC website:
The S2 team is gearing up for their exciting tour to Fylde Rugby Club next weekend! This evening, the boys proudly received their tour kit, presented by Edinburgh Rugby’s Lewis Wells, marking the culmination of months of preparation. The tour, taking place from Friday, March 15th to Sunday, March 17th, will feature a match against Fylde U14s, watching a Fylde 1XV game, and a 6 Nations evening, followed by a trip to Blackpool Pleasure Beach. This tour is a testament to the hard work of the players, parents, families, and the entire club community. Their incredible fundraising efforts have made this trip possible. A massive thank you to everyone who contributed!
Fylde’s U’14s are playing Linlithgow U’14s on Saturday KO at 13.00 on the top pitch at the Woodlands.. All are welcome to come and watch these talented young players ... and then England v Scotland in the Six Nations live in the Clubhouse at 16.45! So a very warm welcome to Linlithgow Rugby Club which is located in West Lothian, Scotland. Established in 1970, Linlithgow’s senior team competes in Scotland’s National League Division 4. The club has a strong tradition of promoting grassroots rugby, and it is known for its community spirit and commitment to developing local talent. Linlithgow’s U14 squad competes in the Inspiresport East Schools League. In their second senior season, the Reds U14 team has been working incredibly hard
We wish the S2s a successful and memorable tour!
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LYTHAM FESTIVAL PARKING & FYLDE’S 3RD ANNUAL BEER FESTIVAL Lytham Festival Parking: 2nd-6th July. Parking for cars and motorhomes, daily and overnight, at the Woodlands. Contact the Club 01253 734733 email admin@fylderugby.co.uk
Fylde is delighted to welcome Will Hunt who arrives at the Club on loan from Sale FC. He made his debut against Lymm at the Woodlands last Saturday and slotted into the 1st XV squad to help to cover for the departure of Patrick Bishop who has moved to London with a new job.
Will has National League experience as a fly-half with Preston Grasshoppers as well as Sale FC.
He grew up in the Lancaster area and played rugby at Vale of Lune from the age of five upwards. As a junior he progressed through the Lancashire RFU age grade teams at U17s, U18s & U20s levels. He has Scottish antecedents and has also played for Scotland at U’19s & U’20s levels.
His development was assisted by a period on Myerscough College’s rugby programme.
At a senior level, Will also has experience at Glasgow Warriors, Ayrshire Bulls & Cascais Portugal as well as making his debut for Lancashire’s senior squad in the Sir Bill Beaumont County Championship.
When we asked Will about his most important rugby influence he made the very reasonable point that “It’d be wrong of me to just mention one person as they’re have been so many coaches/players that have really looked after me.” When fly-half Patrick Bishop told the Club that he was moving to a professional business opportunity in London, Joint Head Coach Alex Loney made enquiries about Will’s availability to provide cover in this critical position. Will added “so it all sort of went from there really. Scoring 15 points (three penalties and three conversions) on debut against Lymm was great but could always be more!”
When he’s away from rugby Will has his own Roofing Business.
Welcome to Fylde RFC Will and very good luck!
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1ST XV 2024-25 APPEARANCES & SCORERS FYLDE 1st XV 2024-25
Total
Start
Sub
Tries
Points
Peter ALTHAM
21 12
17
4
2
10 10 10
Lucas ATHERTON Matt ASHCROFT Valu Tanē BENTLEY
5 5
7
7
2
2
1
1
Patrick BISHOP Corey BOWKER Charlie CADLEY Alex CLAYTON
17
17
3 3
146
15
13
2
15
18 12 12 16
16 10
2 2
3 4
15
Tom DAVIS
20
Ben DORRINGTON
2
10
Jordan DORRINGTON David FAIRBROTHER
15 18
1
9 5
45 25
20
2
Tom FORSTER Matt GARROD Alex GAUGHAN
17 21
7
10
21
7
35
9 9
9 9
1
5
Ben GOULD
2
10
Toby HARRISON
18
17
1
6
30 38
Will HUNT
5 5
5 5
Lewis KINCART
1
5
ROBBIE KINCART
1
1
ROB KING
7
7
ADAM LANIGAN GREG MORGAN JOHN MURRAY SAM PARKER LEWIS QUINN
6
5
1
5
25
22
10
12
1
5
1
1
8
3
5 3
1
5
21
18
4
20
CAMERON RAILTON
1
1 1
Freddie READER
20
19
13
67
Chris RUDKIN
18 16 19
8 9
10
1
5
Cameron SMITH
7
8
40
Sam STOTT
19
1 1
5 5
Olly TRIPPIER Ben TURNER Mike WALTON
17
8
9
22
22
10
50 40
21
21
8
Rob WILLIAMSON
9
7
2
1
5
PENALTY TRIES
1
7
Totals
103
698
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FYLDE PHOTO GALLERY BY CHRIS FARROW FYLDE V BILLINGHAM RUFC, SEPT 2023
www. fylderugby .co.uk
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FYLDE RUGBY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
ensure that the sport of rugby is accessible to all, truly symbolising their ‘Rugby For All’ ethos. Speaking on his promotion, Phill said: “It has been an incredible journey to witness the Foundation’s growth from its inception
PHILL MILLS PROMOTED TO FOUNDATION DIRECTOR OF THE FYLDE RUGBY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION The Fylde Rugby Community Foundation is delighted to announce the promotion of Phill Mills from Foundation Manager to Foundation Director, marking a significant milestone in both his personal journey and the organisation’s ongoing success. The charity was established in early 2020 and Phill, who was previously a Community Rugby Coach with England Rugby, began his journey with the Foundation in September 2020 as the Head of Community. Despite facing significant Covid related challenges in its first year, Phill played a pivotal role in the Foundation’s development. He worked to develop key partnerships, particularly with local schools and the wider community. By its second year, the Foundation had grown to the point where it was able to welcome its second full-time staff member and the Foundation’s reach and impact expanded significantly. Fast forward five years, and under Phill’s leadership, the organisation has grown into a team of nine passionate professionals, delivering high-quality initiatives across Blackpool, Wyre and Fylde, working closely with Fleetwood, Garstang and Fylde Rugby Clubs. What started as a rugby-focused initiative has transformed into a powerful force for social impact. The Foundation now plays a vital role in the local community, not only increasing participation in rugby for boys and girls but also using rugby as a vehicle to improve physical and mental well- being, develop community spirit, support children struggling with literacy, support young people in making positive life choices and promote inclusivity. By breaking down barriers related to age, gender, and disability Phill and his team have worked to
and to see the meaningful difference it has made in people’s lives. I am extremely proud of the team and the positive impact we continue to achieve. None of this would be possible without the hard work, dedication, and delivery of our incredible team who drive everything we do. This new role provides an exciting opportunity to further our objectives, using rugby and sport as powerful tools for good within our community.” Chairman of the Foundation David Craven said “It has been a real pleasure for the Trustees to see Phill grow and develop over the last 4 years and the positive impact which the Foundation is now having in Blackpool, Wyre and Fylde is testimony to Phill’s talent, dedication and passion and that of the outstanding team he has developed. We therefore felt it appropriate to recognise Phill’s enormous contribution with this promotion to Foundation Director.”
Join us for an unforgettable evening at Fylde Coast Come Dancing taking place at Fylde Rugby Club, a spectacular charity fundraiser in support and to raise money for The Fylde Rugby Community Foundation. Expect a night filled with entertainment, great food, and plenty of opportunities to socialise—and, of course, dance! ► Event Schedule ► 18:45 – Guests arrive ► 19:30 – Showtime! Enjoy a fantastic display of dancing performances ► 22:30 – 00:00 – Dance floor opens for everyone to let loose and enjoy the music This is a fantastic chance to support a great cause while enjoying a brilliant evening of fun, food, and dancing. We can’t wait to see you there! Click here to book: https:/ bit.ly/3Xbai3B
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17
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THE CLUB’S NEW OFFICERS
At a Special General Meeting on Tuesday, 1st April, two new officers of the Club were elected. NEIL RILEY takes over the role of Honorary Secretary and MARK WINDOWS as Interim Treasurer, replacing, respectively, Gary Melling and Andy Cleasby. Neil officially takes the natural step from successful Mini/Junior Secretary, seeing the section successfully grow from 350 players to now over 500+, as well as the introduction of North West Roses Junior Girls team. “I’m really excited to take on this role within the club that I truly love being a part of. From my eldest son Jack who came through our own Mini-Junior ranks to now playing with Halbro North West Teams, Harry, who previously played for Fylde Colts, to my youngest Thomas who now plays an active role in our mighty U10’s. Not forgetting, of course, my amazing (and very tolerant!) wife Kerry who has transformed & operates our Club Shop… The sport & this club have played a huge role in both mine & my family’s lives for many years & I’m extremely proud and honoured to play a small part in Fylde’s huge, iconic history” Club President Anthony Hoskisson said: “As a club we would like to welcome Neil into the role & also thank Mr Gary Melling for all
his hard work & dedication during his tenure as Club Secretary - as well as his ongoing support as he continues his role as U14’s Team Manager. Many thanks too to Andy Cleasby who has worked hard as Hon Treasurer and a welcome to Mark Windows who has agreed to take over on an interim basis.”
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PREVIEW BIG MATCH FYLDE V BILLINGHAM
We are delighted to welcome the players, officials and supporters of Billingham RUFC to the Woodlands today (ko 15.00) for only the fourth ever match between the two clubs and their second trip to the Woodlands. It is also great to host Billingham’s U’12s & U’13s who take on Fylde Juniors from 12.00 onwards – welcome lads! In the very brief history of fixtures between the two clubs, Fylde shade the bragging rights with a double victory last season (32-26 & 25-38) but a (39-17) defeat at Greenwood Road in February. Fylde have had a mixed two months since Christmas, to say the least. Six defeats at Chester (25-19), Billingham (39-17), Harrogate(27-24), Otley(19-18), Leeds Tykes (25-13) and home to Sheffield Tigers (28-32), and three victories over Hull Ionians (31- 27), Tynedale (27-19) and Hull (35-13) tell the story. The defeat at Billingham in January is particularly relevant as it suggested a recovery by the North Easterners and a determined effort to climb away from the relegation places. Although four defeats followed, a run of three victories in March – at home to Preston Grasshoppers (29-19) and Chester (29-23) and, especially, an excellent 22-35 win at promotion chasing Lymm – has seen them climb out of the relegation zone and they currently occupy 11th place on the same number of points as ‘Hoppers. Billingham started the current campaign in a healthy fashion with three wins and a draw in their first six games but then hit a bad patch with seven successive defeats. A very gutsy display at leaders Leeds Tykes ended with a n arrow 33-27 defeat and this has symbolised their recovery of form.
Billingham is situated north of the River Tees in the Borough of Stockton-on-Tees. Gaining promotion from the North East Regional Premiership to the National Leagues marks the Club’s highest level achievement
in their long history. In 2022-23 they led the division for a long period and shaded nearest competitor, the Yorkshire club Heath RFC, by 12 points with a record of 19 wins and 3 defeats at the end of the season, with 812 points scored and just 292 conceded. Billingham Rugby Club was formed in 1924 as the rugby section of the Synthonia Sports Club at Synthetic Ammonia and Nitrates Company, which later became Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI). Once established, the club became a force in Durham County Rugby Union, especially after the Second World War and the first team was very strong during the 1950s and early 1960s. The early 1970s saw a downturn in the chemical industry and with the decline of ICI, the rugby club suffered. In the late 1970s and throughout the 1980s the club became somewhat nomadic in its socialising, although still playing on Central Avenue. The 1990s saw an upturn in the club’s fortunes and three teams were regularly playing each week with socialising based at the Synthonia Cricket Club. The club moved to play on Greenwood Road in 1996 although until late 2000 there were no facilities whatsoever, just three pitches. For these years we had a three-site existence, changing, playing and socialising in different locations. However, December 2000 and a £750,000 lottery grant brought the opening of the new clubhouse giving the club a solid base and identity and that has served as a stepping-stone to current success and advancement. This is an ambitious club with very strong roots in the local community accompanied
Billingham Tynedale Billingham
33-12 19-19 19-17 40-26 14-33 27-12 40-17 10-45 48-22 26-36 47-22 32-12 25-26 34-17 33-27 39-17 40-26 14-32 51-15 52-17 29-19 22-35 29-23
Harrogate Billingham
W/H
D/A
Otley
W/H
Hull
Billingham
L/A
Billingham Billingham Wharfedale Billingham Preston G Billingham
Leeds Tykes L/H
Hull Ionians Billingham
W/H
L/A
Sheffield
L/H
Billingham
L/A L/H L/A L/A L/H
Lymm
Chester
Billingham Billingham Tynedale
Sheffield Tigers
Billingham Billingham Leeds Tykes Billingham Hull Ionians Billingham
Hull
W/H
Billingham
L/A
Fylde
W/H
Billingham
L/A
Wharfedale L/H
Otley
Billingham Billingham Preston G Billingham
L/A L/A
Sheffield
Billingham
W/H W/A W/H
Lymm
Billingham
Chester
20
by careful financial and sporting management. Their vibrancy is reflected in a buoyant playing membership, from the U6s to Colts, 4 senior teams, 3 girls teams - 19 teams in all! A particular link between Billingham and Fylde is Mike Walton. The lock/backrower was a well established member of the Billingham squad before moving to a mathematics teaching job at Lytham St Annes High School and joining Fylde. He has had a very good first season at the Woodlands and has impressed everyone with his power, knowhow and determination. His brother Ben is also in the Billingham squad, most usually as a backrower and is another excellent talent.
FYLDE 1st XV ATTENDANCES 2022-23
Chester Harrogate Blaydon Wharfedale Tynedale
540 462 517 583 452 480 583 628 547 786 638 912
Huddersfield Sheffield Tigers
Hull Ionians Rotherham Preston G
Sedgley
1042
Sheffield RUFC
Otley
Av
628
2023-24
Billingham have a good balance between a strong pack and dangerous running backs.
Sheffield Tigers
620 505 480 452 564 605 607 915 495 468
Billingham
Lymm
Playmaking flyhalf and goal kicker Peter Evans is also the clubs Head Coach. He’s also a long term Billingham servant, a characteristic he shares with a few other team mates. For instance, backrower Dan Burns made his 250th appearance and centre Luke Wilson his 200th 1st XV appearance last season. Other prominent members of the pack include the front row of props Adam Brown and Dan Dixon together with hooker Ed Graham. No 8 Anthony Jackson is another stand out performer. Leading try scorers are winger Joe Ross and scrum- half Jamie Lane, both with eight to date. Leading points scorer overall is Peter Evans with 125 in all.
Tynedale
Huddersfield
Otley
Preston G Hull RUFC Wharfedale Rotherham Hull Ionians Leeds Tykes Sheffield RUFC
1220
1195 812
Av
687
2024-25
Preston G Chester Harrogate
1490 1080
549 550 432
Otley Leeds
Wharfedale Hull Ionians
1178 804 634
Sheffield Tigers
Lymm
711
Tynedale Hull RUFC
1002
736
Av
833
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Are your financ www.ludco.co.uk
COACHES: CHRIS BRIERS AND ALEX LONEY FORWARDS Peter Altham (prop) Matt Ashcroft (prop) Valu Tanē Bentley.(flanker)
Corey Bowker (prop) Tom Davis (hooker) Ben Dorrington (flanker) David Fairbrother (no 8) Matt Garrod (lock) Toby Harrison (backrow) Robbie Kincart (prop) Rob King (prop) Greg Morgan (backrow) Sam Parker (hooker) Lewis Quinn (flanker) Chris Rudkin (prop) Charlie Smith (lock) Olly Trippier (prop/hooker) Mike Walton (no 8) Rob Williamson (hooker) BACKS Lucas Atherton (fullback) Charlie Cadley (scrum-half) Alex Clayton (flyhalf) Jordan Dorrington (wing/15) Tom Forster (centre) Alex Gaughan (scrum-half) Ben Gould (scrum-half) Will Hunt (fly-half) Lewis Kincart (scrum-half) Adam Lanigan (wing) Scott Rawlings (centre) Freddie Reader (fullback) Cameron Smith (wing) Sam Stott (centre)
TODAY’S OFFICIALS
DAVE CHARLTON
RICHARD ARTHUR
BRENDAN FITZMAURICE
22
ces under control? Ludlow Wealth Management Group is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. ces under control? Ludlow Wealth Management Group is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Peter Evans
DIRECTOR OF RUGBY:
15
Elliott Husband
14
Joe Scarborough
13
Louie Groark
12
Luke Wilson
11
Joe Ross
10
Peter Evans
9
Jamie Lane
1
Adam Brown
2
Ed Graham
3
Daniel Dixon
4
Liam Armstrong
5
Matthew White
6
Dan Burns
7
Tom Campbell
8
Anthony Jackson
16
Ewan Lydiatt
17
James Watson
18
Ben Walton
19
Joe Evans
20
Jonathan Horner
www. fylderugby .co.uk
23
LASTTIMEOUT: LEEDS 35 V FYLDE 15
MATCH REPORT BY SIMON TAYLOR
Forget the final scoreline. Look past the fact Fylde came back from Yorkshire with nothing to show for their effort and endeavour. Instead, focus on what was a Herculean effort, in the face of some real adversity, with a raft of players injured or unavailable, and players forced to play out of position. A spirited, committed and inventive display saw Fylde go toe to toe with champions elect Leeds, with Leeds having to work very hard to quell the Fylde challenge, only making the game safe in the last 20 minutes, when the heavens opened, and the rain made attacking play difficult for both teams. Fylde coaches Alex Loney and Chris Briers were presented with major headaches in terms of selecting a pack to take on the physicality of the Leeds forwards. Unavailability as well as the attritional nature of the season in general and a tough win against Hull last time out meant there was no Rob Williamson, Tom Davis, Olli Trippier, Mike Walton, Matt Garrod, Matt Ashcroft or Sam Parker. Freddie Deeks came in to start at hooker in between Chris Rudkin and Pete Altham. Greg Morgan and Lewis Quinn were a brand-new second row partnership, and with skipper Toby Harrison out gnarly warrior Dave Fairbrother took over the captaincy again from number 8. With feast become famine in back row options prop Corey Bowker and centre Sam Stott were called upon to play very much out of position on the blind and open side. In the backs, in for injured Ben Gould was Alex Gaughan, only just back from injury himself. Will Hunt was in the box seat at 10, with Tom Forster and Alex Clayton in the centres, Adam Lanigan and Jordan Dorrington on the wings, and Freddie Reader at full back. Rob King and Cam Railton provided front row cover on the bench, Ben Turner and Cam Smith were back line replacement options and the biggest surprise of the day was a welcome return for a trimmed down version of Scott Rawlings on the bench. Welcome surprise for Fylde that is, maybe not so much for the Leeds hooker as Rawlings showed he has lost none of his razor-sharp wit at line out time. Rain had been forecast but held off for the first hour and Leeds started strongly, kicking an early penalty to 5 yards out. With hooker Adam Brown having amassed 21 tries already his season there are no prizes for guessing what is one of the main weapons in Leeds’s armoury. The catch and drive was set up and Brown looked like he was about to make it 22 when Fylde were adjudged to have dragged it down illegally. It was only the 3rd minute, but with the referee awarding a penalty try, he was duty bound to dish out a yellow card as well, and Fairbrother was the
recipient. Fylde were 7-0 down and without their skipper for the next 10 minutes. Rather than let this dishearten them Fylde rose to the challenge. A nice break from Reader led to Fylde’s first penalty and their own line out. Without their usual thrower in and missing their principal jumpers, Deeks did well to hit Morgan and Fylde set up the best phased play they have put together all season. Nine or ten phases with strong carries particularly from Sam Stott and Morgan stressed the Leeds defence into narrowing too much. Will Hunt spotted this and showed his prowess again in the flat kick out wide, finding winger Adam Lanigan in acres of space. Lanigan gathered, dotted down, Hunt converted, and Fylde were level at 7-7 after 7 minutes. Fylde continued to take the game to Leeds and, with Fairbrother back on, went ahead on 21 minutes. A huge hit in midfield by Pete Altham allowed Corey Bowker to turnover the ball with a great steal. Fairbrother and Morgan created holes in the Leeds defence, Hunt flung a lovely miss pass giving Jordan Dorrington space to break down the wing, and Freddie Reader was on hand to take the final pass, create some scorched earth around the last man and touch down. Hunt’s conversion drifted wide, but Fylde were 12-7 up. Leeds are not top of the tree for nothing, and they came back on 27 minutes. Any penalties allowing line outs near Fylde’s line were going to mean trouble and this one did give Brown his 22nd try of the season. Full back Seremaia Turagabeci, or Jerry Bai as Leeds call him, and I hope he doesn’t mind me doing so from now on, kicked the
24
to pin them back. The rain that had been promised all day came in bucketloads, and inevitably it became harder for both teams to keep ball for sustained periods, especially after over an hour of fast paced attack and tiring defence. The scoreboard operator was troubled no more as Leeds saw the game out for their 22nd win from 23 starts and edged closer than ever to promotion. Whilst Fylde may have had nothing to show for their efforts this was, in many ways, one of the most heartening and enjoyable performances of the season. Every player contributed in huge measure but special mention goes to Freddie Deeks for a fine all round performance, Lewis Quinn, Greg Morgan, Corey Bowker and Sam Stott for strong ball carrying and fierce defence despite none of them playing in their preferred positions. There was no man of the match, credit goes to the whole squad, coaches and support staff for pushing a good team all the way. Coaches Alex Loney & Chris Briers combined comments were: ‘Overall we were very happy with the performance, although not with the loss and having no league points to show for it. We put some really good passages of play together, especially in the first half, and at times Leeds looked like they didn’t know how to cope with our attack. In large parts it was a nip and tuck game. We think the game was won and lost in the 10 minutes when we got back to 21-15 and they were a man down. Fair play to them for managing that period and then creating further scores. When the weather came in and we needed to play catch up it got more difficult for both teams. To see how much pressure we put them under with our attack and see us defend so well in general, especially with the positional changes we had to make, was very pleasing. We are both really proud of the effort and commitment everybody put in, especially with people playing out of position.’ Fylde remain in 4th place with 3 games left to play, 4 points ahead of Wharfedale, who they visit in the penultimate game. A rest weekend next week will hopefully allow time for some battered bodies to recover before Fylde entertain Billingham at The Woodlands. Billingham have won their last 2 games to climb out the relegation zone, in what is becoming a very tense fight at the bottom of the table. Every one of the last 3 games will mean a lot, especially to teams in the bottom four, and top 6. Fylde will look for a strong finish to the season, showing the spirit, courage and willingness to play fast temp rugby they did on Saturday.
conversion and Leeds were back in front at 14-12. Both teams had their chances in the next 10 minutes before Leeds set up shop near the Fylde line again. This time Fylde defended the catch and drive well and forced Leeds into touch on the far side when they span the ball down the line. Unfortunately, Fylde’s own line out then misfired and Leeds’s strong running inside centre Tom Williams was able to crash over from short range, Bai adding the conversion to make it 21-12 at the break, which was tough on Fylde. Fylde have had some slow starts to second halves this season, but not this week. Lanigan moved to scrum half with Gaughan making way, Cam Smith coming on to the wing, and Fylde came roaring out of the traps, upping the tempo to unsettle Leeds. On 45 minutes under their own posts Leeds’s wing forward Jack Smith was deemed to have knocked on deliberately to halt a Fylde move. It was deemed there was enough cover defence to mean a yellow card was sufficient, when it could have been a penalty try instead. Hunt knocked over the penalty to bring Fylde back within a score at 21-15, and a man advantage for the next 10. As Fylde had done earlier, Leeds shrugged off being a man down to score next on 51 minutes. Another penalty, line out catch and drive this time leading to Matt Burke touching down, the conversion giving them breathing space again at 28-15. Fylde, however, were not daunted and kept plugging away. Rawlings made it 2 veteran warhorses on the pitch as he came on in the back row and Coery Bowker made his was to his usual position at prop. Rob King also came on with Chris Rudkin and Pete Altham taking well-earned breathers. Ben Turner replaced Alex Clayton in the backs and Fylde upped the tempo again, knowing they needed to score next. Fylde were extremely unlucky not to score twice in two minutes. First, Cam Smith lost the ball when attempting to force his way over wide out. From the goal line drop out Fylde hammered away again until Hunt spotted space out wide again for the cross-kick. Jordan Dorrington did very well to collect the ball on the dive but as his elbow hit the ground the ball was dislodged before it could be grounded. Leeds made the most of their get out of jail card and Tom Williams made another long-range break to take play deep into Fylde’s 22. Fylde scrambled in defence and repelled the waves of attack until there was one runner too many, prop Tobias Williams crashing over. Jerry Bai made it 5 from 5 conversions and Leeds finally had a healthy lead at 35-15 with 16 minutes left. Fylde never let their heads go down. Gaughan was back on for Lanigan who had taken a knock and Fylde tried to run from deep whenever they got the ball, as Leeds sought
www. fylderugby .co.uk
25
PHILL MILLS HOOKER MATT ASHCROFT
PETER ALTHAM
TOM ARMSTRONG
TANĒ BENTLEY
PATRICK BISHOP
3
12
Sponsored By NR ENGINEERING LTD 4, 5, 6, 8
7
10
CHARLIE CADLEY
BEN DORRINGTON DAVID FAIRBROTHER
ALEX CLAYTON
COREY BOWKER
9, 11
7
10, 12, 15
1
8
OWEN FISHER
MATT GARROD
BEN GOULD
TOM FORSTER
ALEX GAUGHAN
13, 14
9
12, 13
4, 5
9
SCOTT RAWLINGS CENTRE LEWIS KINCART
ROB KING
ROBBIE KINCART
ADAM LANIGAN
TOBY HARRISON
3
2, 3
11, 14
Sponsored By REACT 9
6, 7, 8
28
SCOTT RAWLINGS CENTRE SAM PARKER
SCOTT RAWLINGS CENTRE CHRIS RUDKIN
FREDDIE READER
LEWIS QUINN
GREG MORGAN
Sponsored By REACT 2
4, 5, 6, 8
6
13, 11, 15
Sponsored By REACT 1
SCOTT RAWLINGS CENTRE BEN TURNER
SCOTT RAWLINGS CENTRE MIKE WALTON
SCOTT RAWLINGS CENTRE SAM STOTT
SCOTT RAWLINGS CENTRE OLLIE TRIPPIER
SCOTT RAWLINGS CENTRE ROB WILLIAMSON
11, 14
Sponsored By REACT 8
Sponsored By REACT 12
Sponsored By REACT 1, 2, 3
Sponsored By REACT 2
STEVE GOUGH HAWKS COACH
SCOTT RAWLINGS CENTRE ALEX LONEY JT HEAD COACH
SCOTT RAWLINGS CENTRE CHRIS BRIERS JT HEAD COACH
MOLLY HART-RYAN LEAD THERAPIST
IAN COSH 4TH OFFICIAL
WARREN ATKINSON RUGBY OPS MGR
JORDAN MCLAUGHLIN RESOURCES MANAGER
www. fylderugby .co.uk
29
SENIORTEAMSFIXTURES & RESULTS 2024-25
Date
1st XV
HAWKS
VANDALS
NATIONAL 2 (NORTH)
NOWIRUL PREM NOWIRUL DIV 3(N)
17-Aug-24 24-Aug-24 07-Sep-24 14-Sep-24 21-Sep-24 28-Sep-24 05-Oct-24 12-Oct-24 19-Oct-24 26-Oct-24 02-Nov-24 09-Nov-24 16-Nov-24 23-Nov-24 30-Nov-24 07-Dec-24 14-Dec-24 21-Dec-24 04-Jan-25 11-Jan-25 18-Jan-25 25-Jan-25 01-Feb-25 08-Feb-25 15-Feb-25 22-Feb-25 01-Mar-25 08-Mar-25 15-Mar-25 22-Mar-25 29-Mar-25 05-Apr-25 12-Apr-25 19-Apr-25 26-Apr-25
ROSSENDALE BLACKBURN
66-26 17-10
Sheffield RUFC (a) 38-19 PRESTON G. (h) 32-30
Blackburn 2 (a) 7-65 Manchester 2 (a) 15-52
FLEETWOOD 2 (h) 92-0 VALE OF LUNE 3 (h) 61-5 Orrell 2 (a) postponed
Lymm (a)
49-14 47-24
CHESTER 2 (h) Rochdale 2 (a)
68-19
CHESTER (h)
0-83
Hull Ionians (a)
32-35
Sheffield Tigers (a) 26-33 HARROGATE (h) 61-14
PRESTON G 2 (h) 47-22
ORMSKIRK 2 (h) post.
Lymm 2 (a)
21-38
BOLTON 2 (h)
68-17
Tynedale (a)
22-45
SEDGLEY P 2 (h) 38-12
Colne & Nelson 2 (a) 0-20
OTLEY (h)
56-29 23-21
Caldy 2 (a)
52-22
PRESTON G 5 (h) 74-0
Hull RUFC (a)
MACC’FIELD 2 (h) Conc
Blackburn 3 (a)
21-23
LEEDS TYKES (h) post LEEDS TYKES (h) 17-22
Wirral 2 (a)
22-26
CLITHEROE 2 (h) post
ORMSKIRK 2 (h)
76-14
Billingham (a)
aband
ROSSENDALE 2 (h) post MANCHESTER 2 (h) 60-7 Chester 2 (a) 34-45
WHARFEDALE (h) 31-30
Vale of Lune 3 (a) 20-19
Preston G. (a)
12-38
ORRELL 2 (h)
46-22
Orrell 2 (a)
12 -38
LYMM (h) post
Chester (a)
25-19
LYMM 2 (h)
52-26
Bolton 2 (a)
21-30
HULL IONIANS (h) 31-27
Chester (a) Cup 39-19
Billingham (a)
39-17
Sedgley P 2 (a) concede
COLNE & NELSON (h) con
SHEFF TIGERS (h) 28-32 HARROGATE (a) 27-24
CALDY 2 (h)
21-22
LYMM (h)
45-17
ROSSENDALE (h) 55-25
GARSTANG 3 (h) 48-10
TYNEDALE (h)
27-19 19-18 35-13
BLACKBURN 3 (h) 25-9
Otley (a)
WIRRAL 2 (h) walk-over Preston G 2 (a) 50-19 Rossendale 2 (a) 28-44 MACCLESFIELD (h) 14-32
Clitheroe 2 (a) Ormskirk 2 (a) Garstang 2 (a)
48-29
HULL RUFC (h)
7-60
LEEDS TYKES (a) 35-15
18-38
Trafford MV (a) 29-25
BILLINGHAM (h) WHARFEDALE (a)
BLACKBURN 2 (h)
Fleetwood 2 (a)
SHEFFIELD RUFC (h)
ROCHDALE 2 (h)
Thornton C 2 (a)
30
1ST XV 2024-25 APPEARANCES & SCORERS FYLDE 1st XV 2024-25
Total
Start
Sub
Tries
Points
2
1
1
Peter ALTHAM
Tom ARMSTRONG Lucas ATHERTON Matt ASHCROFT Valu Tanē BENTLEY
3
2
1
4
1
1
3 3
3 3
6
Patrick BISHOP
Corey BOWKER
Charlie CADLEY Alex CLAYTON Ben DORRINGTON
3 3 2
3
3
1
5
Jordan DORRINGTON
1
1
David FAIRBROTHER
Owen FISHER Tom FORSTER
3 3
1
2
3
2
10
Matt GARROD
1
1
Alex GAUGHAN
2 3
2 3
Ben GOULD
1
5
Toby HARRISON
Lewis KINCART Robbie KINCART ROB KING ADAM LANIGAN ADAM LEWIS GREG MORGAN
1
1
3
3
1
1
SAM PARKER
3
2
1
1
5
LEWIS QUINN
CAMERON RAILTON SCOTT RAWLINGS Freddie READER
3 2 3 3 3 3 2
3
1
5
2
Chris RUDKIN
3 2 3 3 2
Sam STOTT
1
Olly TRIPPIER
2
10
Ben TURNER
1
5
Mike WALTON
Rob WILLIAMSON
Penalty tries Totals
9
55
31
FYLDE RUGBY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION: ELITE DEVELOPMENT DAY SENIORTEAMSFIXTURES & RESULTS 2024-25
An extract from Mark Carden’s forthcoming nook “A Miscellany of Fylde Rugby”
team-mates for the Manchester University side in 1951, 1952, 1953 and 1954.
As a player Jack was an accomplished fly half and could cover most positions in the backs. A new lease of life was found with a move to the wing later in his career and during the 1959-60 season, Jack ran in no less than 7 tries in one game against Harrogate, “…..he had 3 in the first half and 4 in the second”. This within weeks of a 31-12 victory over Preston Grasshoppers in which, “Quarmby contributed 22 of Fylde’s points with 3 tries, 5 conversions and a penalty goal”. Overall, Jack’s records and the local press attest to the facts; that he represented Fylde on 312 occasions, scoring 108 tries and kicking 584 goals. If we assume a half and half split between penalty kicks and conversions, then using today’s scoring system, this amounts to an incredible 2,000 points and a spot right at the top of the all-time scoring charts, probably in the company only of Edward “Pop” Ogden and his much-celebrated round the corner kicking style. A Fylde programme printed in 1990 elicits Jack’s views on school rugby and provides an impressive list of players produced during Jack’s time as a teacher and rugby coach at Blackpool Grammar. These included future club captains Tony Todd and Mark Hesketh, and 1st XV stalwarts such as Pete Faulkner, Chris Wilding and Phil Moran. Once the playing days were over, his years of experience as a school teacher were put to good use in the creation of the club’s Mini Rugby section. Here he was instrumental in once again bringing through a generation of rugby players, imbued with his own deep love of the game. As Fylde’s closest contact with the RFU, Jack brought the idea to the club in 1973. He hired an official RFU film, brought a projector from the school, and invited parents to come and see what was being planned. Now well into his 90s, Jack can be seen regularly at Fylde, enjoying the rugby and the company of the Fylde members, many of whom have benefitted from his ceaseless enthusiasm and commitment to the club.
[Reproduced with thanks to Mark] Pencil portrait by Alan Cavanagh
Jack, 93, on 25th Jan 2025
Jack Quarmby was born on December 28th, 1931, slightly more than a decade after the formation of Fylde RFC and was destined to play a huge part in its history. He was spotted as a youngster playing for Thornton Cleveleys and was brought to Fylde in 1951, where he recalls a friendly and welcoming atmosphere with a strong camaraderie, that meant he would keep coming back. 3 years and 4 months of National Service in the RAF might have kept Jack away, but fortune smiled upon all of us as he was posted to Weeton, from where he could generally travel to play at weekends. Jack attended the University of Manchester, followed by a year at Carnegie in readiness to become a French Teacher at Blackpool Grammar School. He continued to travel to represent Fylde at both 15s and 7s whenever possible, although did line up against his Fylde
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