FYLDELADIESDAY!
V HULL RUFC SATURDAY, 15TH MARCH 2025 KO 15.00
OFFICIAL DIGITAL MATCH DAY PROGRAMME
ISSUE 12
www. fylderugby .co.uk
WELCOMETO THEWOODLANDS
04 05 07 08 09 10 11 14
Fylde Ladies Day
CLUB OFFICERS President
Madeley College 1976 squad re-union
Anthony Hoskisson
Chairman Secretary Treasurer
Matt Filipo Gary Melling Andy Cleasby
Briersy’s & Lono’s Programme Notes
Immediate Past President
Jeff Gould
Fylde U’14s v Linlithgow U’14s
GENERAL COMMITEE Chairman of Rugby
Mark Nelson Mark Windows
Fylde Beer Festival 24th May
M-J Chair
M-J Secretary
Neil Riley
Fylde v Hull Jan 2024 photo gallery
Volunteers Co-ordinator
TBA
Club Discipline
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
18-19 20-21
Big Match Preview – Fylde v Hull RUFC Today’s Squads Last time out – Late Penalty Foils Fylde’s Comeback The Locker Room
22-23
26-27
MEDICAL Lead Therapist
31 33 39 36 40
1sts, Hawks & Vandals fixtures
Molly Hart-Ryan
1st XV Sports Therapist
George Craine
Hawks Therapist
TBA
FRCF: Kids Easter Multi-Sports Clubs
CLUB OFFICIALS Grounds & Maintenance Media, Comms & Archives
Soroptimists sponsor girls rugby in secondary schools
Patrick Townsend
Allan Foster
Gates
John Wilkinson
The League Tables
Fylde Senior Colts reach U18s County Cup Final
STAFF General Manager
Jack Little
Commercial Sponsorship Sponsorship & Events Mgr
Jay Harrison
Hayley Salisbury
Bars & Catering Mgr
Heather Allen Daniel Koper
Chef
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
CLUB NEWS FYLDE LADIES DAY, 15TH MARCH
@FyldeLadies
PARTY ALERT!
FYLDE LADIES have a few places left for our annual Ladies Day event: @fylderugby v @hullrufc, Saturday 15th March 12.30
* Fizz on arrival * 3 Course Lunch
* Dancing with Daniel Sings * Balcony viewing of the game
Not to be missed! Contact Fylde office to book
4
MADELEYCOLLEGE RE-UNION AT THE CLUB TODAY!
The group will be gathering at the Woodlands on Saturday to also celebrate the life of a local lad - Kirkham Grammar School, Fylde RFC, Madeley College and England Schools player, Clive Hughes, who was so tragically killed in a road accident near to the Nelson Hall Annexe of Madeley College, shortly after the semi-final.
Saturday, 15th March, will be an important day at the Woodlands. Fylde entertain Hull RUFC in National Two North (ko 15.00) on what is also Ladies Day at the Club. Additionally, the Woodlands Clubhouse will also play host to a reunion of players from the long gone Madeley College in Staffordshire. Madeley College of Education was built in 1961 in parkland formerly belonging to Madeley Manor. It had begun life in 1949 as Stafford Teacher Training College and was based at Nelson Hall at Cotes Heath, which had been built during the Second World War to house munitions workers working at the Royal Ordnance Factory at Swynnerton. 1974-75 was a rugby season those involved at the College will never forget. 50 years has gone by, almost to the day, since Madeley defeated Jordanhill College, at Fylde RFC, in the British Colleges Cup semi-final. Madeley would go on the win the BC Cup Final as well as the Staffs Cup that season. It is fitting that a number of players involved in that Cup semi-final - Tom Borthwick (capt), John Bishop, Frank McEveley, Chris Genders, Peter Smith and Peter Kennedy will be at the reunion. After winning the BC Cup, the squad that went on to Staffs Cup success was led by coach Eddie Robinson (who lives in USA) and captain Tom Borthwick. But why the semi final and holding a Rugby Reunion at Fylde RFC?
It is great to have members of the Hughes family attending on Saturday joining in the luncheon in honour of Clive along with close friends Norm Allen, Keith Aitchison and a former rugby teacher/guru Brian Gornall. Two other former Fylde players have associations with Madeley College - fly-half Steve Burnage and loyal player and official Steve Rigby. In 1976 Riggers was sufficiently foolish to be a talented footballer and it was a few years later when the scales dropped from his eyes and he switched to rugby!
The party sends sincere thanks to the Fylde club for allowing this event to take place on Saturday.
The Club is honoured to be hosting the luncheon.
www. fylderugby .co.uk
5
PHILL MILLS IS NEW HAWKS COACH
6
BRIERSY’S & LONO’S & LONO’S PROGRAMME NOTES
The team has trained hard this week, reinforcing some principles and making tweaks in a few areas in order to get back to winning ways. The players and coaches are full of confidence and have great belief in the ability of the team to put on another strong performance that our spectators will enjoy. Have a great day and enjoy the match!
Chris Briers says: We are thrilled to welcome our members and supporters once again for another Fylde 1st XV fixture. Your support always gives the team an extra uplift and we hope you will enjoy the exciting match ahead. Last week’s game against Otley was a tough, physical battle. Despite our best efforts, we were narrowly defeated by a strong Otley side. It was a hard-fought contest, and unfortunately, we ended up on the wrong side of the result.
Today, we welcome Hull to The Woodlands. Hull has had a challenging season but has managed to secure some impressive results along the way, including a victory over us earlier in the year. We anticipate another thrilling and tough encounter.
ELSEWHERE IN NATIONAL TWO (NORTH) TODAY
CHESTER
V V V V V V
LEEDS TYKES TYNEDALE SHEFFIELD BILLINGHAM WHARFEDALE
15:00
HARROGATE
15:00
HULL IONIANS
15:00
LYMM
14:30
PRESTON G
14:30
SHEFFIELD TIGERS
OTLEY
15:00
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SATURDAY’S HORS D’OEUVRE: FYLDE U’14S V LINLITHGOW U’14S
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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PROFILE OF NEWCOMER WILL HUNT
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!
www. fylderugby .co.uk
9
FYLDE PHOTO GALLERY BY CHRIS FARROW FYLDE V HULL RUFC, JAN 2024
10
1ST XV 2024-25 APPEARANCES & SCORERS FYLDE 1st XV 2024-25
Total
Start
Sub
Tries
Points
Peter ALTHAM
19
15
4
2
10
Lucas ATHERTON Matt ASHCROFT Valu Tanē BENTLEY
12
5
7
10
7
5
2
2
10
1
1
Patrick BISHOP Corey BOWKER Charlie CADLEY Alex CLAYTON
17
17
3
146
13
12
1
3
15
17
15
2
3
15
Tom DAVIS
12
10
2
4
20
Ben DORRINGTON
12
2
10
Jordan DORRINGTON David FAIRBROTHER
14
13
1
8
40
18
16
2
3
15
Tom FORSTER Matt GARROD Alex GAUGHAN
15
5
10
20
20
7
35
8
8
1
5
Ben GOULD
8
8
1
5
Toby HARRISON
17
16
1
6
30
Will HUNT
3
3
25
Lewis KINCART Robbie KINCART
5
5
1
5
1
1
ROB KING
5
5
ADAM LANIGAN GREG MORGAN JOHN MURRAY SAM PARKER LEWIS QUINN
4
3
1
4
20
20
9
11
1
5
1
1
7
3
4
1
5
20
17
3
4
20
CAMERON RAILTON
1
1
FREDDIE READER
18
17
1
12
60
Chris RUDKIN
16
6
10
1
5
Cameron SMITH
14
9
5
8
40
Sam STOTT
18
18
1
5
Olly TRIPPIER Ben TURNER Mike WALTON
17
8
9
1
5
20
20
9
45
20
20
8
40
Rob WILLIAMSON
8
6
2
1
5
Penalty tries
1
7
TOTALS
96
648
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11
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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
14
15
16
www. fylderugby .co.uk
17
PREVIEW BIG MATCH FYLDE V HULL RUFC
We are delighted to welcome players, officials and supporters of Hull RUFC to the Woodlands on Saturday, 15th March (ko 15.00). Fixtures between the two clubs do not have a long history. Hull RUFC was formed on July 1st 1992 as a result of a merger between Old Hymerians RUFC and Hull & East Riding RUFC (1989). There have been only ten previous league games between the two clubs which began in 2009-10 when Hull took the honours with victories at the Ferrens Ground by 31-25 and at the Woodlands by 16-25. The following season saw this reversed with Fylde victorious by 37-8 at home and 9-31 in Hull. With Fylde being promoted to National One at the end of that season, there was a gap of nine years before fixtures began again in 2019-20. In the campaign which came to an abrupt end in March 2020 when Covid 19 struck, the only game was in November at the Woodlands when the visitors edged home by 20-22. On the restoration of fixtures post-Covid in 2021-22, Hull swept through the campaign to finish as outstanding champions and were promoted to National One (level 3) for the first time. There were two cracking matches between the clubs that season, with Hull winning both, by 22-14 at the Ferrens Ground and 26-28 at the Woodlands.
clear bragging rights with a 7-3 win advantage overall.
Rather like Fylde, Hull have performed unevenly during the current season, starting with seven defeats in the first nine fixtures including a heavy 18-55 beating
on their own ground at the hands of local neighbours Hull Ionians. Matters improved when they beat Fylde on 16th Nov and they went on to win four of the next seven matches including a sweet revenge victory against Ionians in a classic 36-37 battle at Brantingham Park. Close games against league pacesetters Leeds, Sheffield & Lymm illustrated the talent in the squad. More recently injuries have undermined their efforts and they’ve lost four of their last five games. They sit in 12th place in N2(N) and have a relegation battle on their hands although given the ability in their squad they should pull clear.
Hull Hull
12-13 18-55 49-16 40-26 24-34 36-38 45-29 18-24 39-19 23-21 29-15 29-12 38-17 36-37 34-17 32-19 24-33 43-23 41-24 50-24 17-40
Otley
L/H
Hull Ionians L/H
Leeds Tykes
Hull
L/A
Hull
Billingham W/H
Wharfedale
Hull
W/A L/H L/A L/H
Hull
Sheffield
Preston G
Hull
Hull
Lymm
Chester
Hull
L/A
Woodlands Ferrens
Fylde result
Hull
Fylde
W/H
Sheffield Tigers
Hull
L/A
2009-10 2010-11 2019-20 2021-22 2023-24 2024-25
16-25 37-8 20-22 26-28
31-25
L/L
Hull
Harrogate W/H
9-31
W/W
Tynedale
Hull Hull Hull
L/A
-
L
Hull Ionians Billingham
W/A
22-14 39-36 23-21
L/L
L/A
35-8
W/L
Hull Hull
Wharfedale W/H Leeds Tykes L/H
-/L
Sheffield
Hull
L/A
The difference between National One and Two is well known. For every club that steps up between the divisions and flourishes such as Caldy, other struggle greatly. Hull were in the latter category and went through the whole 2022-23 season with just one draw and 25 defeats. Fixtures between the Clubs were restored in the 2023- 24 campaign and two home wins were the result. This season saw Fylde struggle once again to come out on top at the Ferrens Ground as they went down by 23-21 in a very tight exchange. So it’s true to say that Hull hold the
Hull
Preston G W/H
Lymm
Hull
L/A L/H
Hull
Chester
Hull RUFC have a rather different set-up than Fylde in that they are a one team club, with no Mini-Juniors and sharing the Hull Sports Ground complex in the heart of the City with a variety of other sports clubs including football, lawn tennis, bowling and cricket. They have been extremely successful in securing sufficiently large sponsorships to fund the 1st XV squad and the rest of the considerable expenses running a National League club.
18
Their principal benefactor over many years have been construction company Beal Homes, with the owning family at times leading the governance as well as the financing of the Club. They have a history of recruiting fine players from far and wide including a number that have made the cross- code switch in a RL dominated City. Hull’s Head Coach is the very experienced Mike Omaga and he has a very loyal squad of players. The most well known star of the pack over recent seasons has been the veteran and much travelled Tongan international backrower Latu Makaafi. Before his most recent spell at Hull, he’s spent periods at Bradford & Bingley (2 seasons), Hull (1 season), Wharfedale (1), Doncaster Knights (2), Rotherham Titans (1), Jersey (1), Doncaster Knights (2) & Coventry (2). The Hull pack includes other quality, experienced personnel including front rowers, props Jamie Major, Tomas Bairstow and ex-Premiership veteran Charlie Beech, and hooker Michael Jobling. Bairstow startled the Woodlands crowd last season with a blistering burst from 40m out to score an outstanding try under the posts. Powerful locks Paulos Latu and Liam Regardsoe are supported by backrowers including David Halaifonua (sometimes a centre), Jose Uriburu Gray, Will Hall and no 8 Adam Brankley who is the leading try scorer with 11. Their backline is led by halfbacks, fly-half Harrison Astley and lively no 9 Harvey Harding. Stalwart of the three quarters over recent years is Ali Heard who is now the record holder of number of appearances for the Club with over 240. One of the dangermen in the backs is former RL centre, the powerful Bureta Faraimo who has notched 10 tries to date. Another RL recruit, winger Josh Ratuvou, has also been turning heads. It was hoped that the return after injury of the prolific winger Mike Adlard this season would also make a big difference but he’s only made seven appearances to date. The principal goal kicker is former Old Brodleians fullback Fynlay Hobson, a newcomer this season, and he’s top points scorer to date with 109.
FYLDE 1st XV ATTENDANCES
2022-23
Chester
540 462 517 583 452 480 583 628 547 786 638 912
Harrogate Blaydon Wharfedale Tynedale
Huddersfield Sheffield Tigers
Hull Ionians Rotherham Preston G
Sedgley
1042
Sheffield RUFC
Otley
Av
628
2023-24
Sheffield Tigers
620 505 480 452 564 605 607 915 495 468
Billingham
Lymm
Tynedale
Huddersfield
Otley
Preston G Hull RUFC Wharfedale Rotherham Hull Ionians Leeds Tykes Sheffield RUFC
1220
1195
812
Av
687
2024-25
Preston G
1490 1080 549 550 432 804 634 711 1178 1002
Chester
Harrogate
Otley Leeds
Wharfedale Hull Ionians
Sheffield Tigers
Lymm
Tynedale
Av
843
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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) Freddie Reader (fullback) Cameron Smith (wing)
TODAY’S OFFICIALS
TOM HURDLEY
SIMON WILLIAMS
Sam Stott (centre) Ben Turner (wing)
SIMON LAZENBY
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Mike Umaga
DIRECTOR OF RUGBY:
15
Fynlay Hobson
14
Jake Boardman
13
Harry Dawkins
12
David Halaifonua
11
Josh Ratuvou
10
Harrison Astley
9
Harvey Harding
1
Jamie Major
2
Michael Jobling
3
Tomas Bairstow
4
Anthony Mccormack
5
Liam Regardsoe
6
Billy Addy
7
Jack Baldry
8
Paulos Latu
16
Charlie Beech
17
Curtis Taylor
18
Waverley Wrigglesworth
19
Jose Uriburu Gray
20
Joe Barratt
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LASTTIMEOUT: LATE PENALTY FOILS FYLDE’S COMEBAC
OTLEY 19 V FYLDE 18: MATCH REPORT BY SIMON TAYLOR Fylde suffered the agony rather than the ecstasy of sport as they returned from a fierce battle with an in-form Otley with a solitary bonus point to show for a committed and spirited effort. Late drama saw Fylde edge back in front 18-16 with just a few minutes left on the clock only for Otley to knock over a penalty of their own with time nearly up to seal their fourth win on the bounce. Fylde outscored the hosts 2 tries to 1 but the two Otley kickers had a 100% success rate from the tee allowing them to seal the narrowest of wins in a real arm wrestle of a game. With the weather gods providing an early taste of spring, t-shirt and sunglasses weather meant a fast and sometimes frantic game was made possible. Both teams fielded hard-working packs allied with pacy and inventive back lines and were well matched. Fylde were missing their main source of line out ball with Matt Garrod unavailable, giving Greg Morgan a start at second row. Jordan Dorrington was a welcome return on the wing after over a month out and with Sam Stott unavailable Tom Forster partnered Alex Clayton in the centres. New fly-half Will Hunt made his away debut after 2 home games. A fast start to the game saw Fylde’s man of the match Tom Forster make the first meaningful line break on 7 minutes, and from the resulting phases Will Hunt took the ball to the line and fed Adam Lanigan a nice inside pass giving him space to scorch over from 20 out. Hunt knocked over the conversion and Fylde were 7-0 up. Otley then had a good period keeping Fylde under pressure in their own 22 for a sustained period and were rewarded with a penalty which scrum half Joe Rowntree kicked to make it 7-3 on 14 minutes. The home team then kept their foot on Fylde’s throat and dominated possession and territory for the next 15 minutes. Stout defence meant Fylde were able to either earn a penalty or force an error just when it looked like the dam would break, as Otley prodded, probed and sometimes pounded the away defence. On the half hour, Fylde showed their ability to turn defence into attack and strike from deep. With Fylde under more pressure Dave Fairbrother, who just keeps getting better with age, stole the ball at the breakdown and Greg Morgan carried strongly. Quick ball gave speed merchant Freddie Reader space on the left, he chipped the last man, beat the cover to the bouncing ball, and re-gathered to add yet another try to his season’s tally. Hunt’s conversion hit the
post but Fylde, having made only 2 visits to the Otley 22, were 12-3 up. Otley did not panic and stuck to their game plan, monopolising possession, running hard in the forwards, building pressure and then looking to add zip and creativity when they span it. A nice bit of deception in the centres saw them split the Fylde defence on 34 minutes and put winger Sam Taylor in for the try, converted by Rowntree, and they were back in it at 12-10 down. Otley’s pressure was by now relentless, and they had weapons on the bench, Adebowale Ademakin in particular, who was incredibly hard to put down. His strong run right on half time earned Otley another penalty, and Rowntree did the honours again as his kick gave Otley the lead for the first time,13-12 at the break. Fylde were forced into a change at the break with Lewis Kincart feeling a knock. This meant a re-shuffle of the back line, with the versatile Adam Lanigan moving to scrum half and Cam Smith on to the wing. Unfortunately, the second half started badly for Fylde when a loose pass was intercepted in their own half allowing Otley to set up multiple phases of play. Again, the Fylde defence was robust in repelling the strong Otley runners, but an indiscretion close to the line as the phases mounted saw Fairbrother yellow carded on 44 minutes. Rob King replaced Pete Altham who had gamely carried on despite being in obvious discomfort, and Fylde continued to defend manfully, meaning all Otley had to show for their possession and territory was a 51st minute penalty. With Rowntree having been replaced, full back Callum Irvine slotted this and stretched the Otley lead to 16-12.
22
CK
With Fairbrother back on the pitch, coach Chris Briers sent on Matt Ashcroft and Freddie Deeks to replace Greg Morgan and Rob Williamson, fresh legs and bodies needed due to the amount of bone crunching defence Fylde were having to do. This was in part due to Fylde lacking the fluency they had shown in the previous 2 weeks, their struggles to build sustained phases of their own meaning they were unable to force Otley to defend themselves for long periods, which would have given them a rest from having to put the big hits in themselves, defence always more tiring than having ball in hand. In the last 20 minutes Fylde did improve their accuracy and created more pressure of their own, finally stressing Otley into penalties in their own territory. Will Hunt kicked one on 61 minutes to bring Fylde back to within a point at 16-15 down, and things began to get more tense as time ticked down. Both teams were making breaks but either good defence or inaccuracies at crucial moments meant neither could finish off any of these opportunities. Will Hunt saw a drop goal attempt drop short and then a long- range break from Freddie Reader made Otley’s scramble defence offend at the breakdown and gave Hunt another chance on 69 minutes, but his penalty kick drifted just wide. Hunt, was, however, given another chance on 77 minutes when Fylde’s pressure forced another penalty, and this time Hunt was successful, and Fylde were finally back in front at 18-16, with just 7 minutes left. The challenge now was to manage the re-start and exit effectively. The kick-off was gathered and Fylde set up the short pass and drive option to recycle the ball and run the clock down. Unfortunately, on the last of these, the ball carrier was slightly isolated, Otley got hands on and the referee awarded the penalty for not releasing. It was still a difficult clutch kick from distance and angle, but Irvine showed nerves of steel to send it between the posts and Otley had snatched the lead back at 19-18. There was time to re-start but Fylde over chased the kick in their efforts to forge a last chance of their own, and Otley were able to break up field, set up a few phases, and kick the ball out with time up. A tight contest which was great entertainment was over. It would be hard to deny that Otley deserved the win for their better accuracy and for having the lion’s share of possession and territory. However, having fought so hard all day, despite lacking fluency, and doing so well to get in front with just a few minutes left, Fylde were left frustrated and disappointed with not being able to see the game out.
Joint head coach Chris Briers commented; “With it being such a close game and us taking the lead so late on, it was a bit deflating to give away a penalty and see them pip us at the post. However, we can’t fault the efforts the lads put in, they worked really hard defensively and put some huge shots in, there were lads out there playing on with knocks. Speaking to the Otley coaches, they were keen to deny us possession as they know what we can do with too much of it. The challenge for us is to manage the game better so we can get the amount of possession we need to hurt the opposition more.” Fylde remain fourth with 5 games left, the next being Hull at home next week. With third bottom Hull losing on Saturday and the bottom two winning, Hull will come to The Woodlands desperate for victory. With Ladies Day on, England v Wales kicking off at 4.45, and entertainment in the club later, it promises to be a busy day, a healthy crowd supporting Fylde’s efforts to get back to winning ways as they look to secure fourth spot would be appreciated. Fylde: Reader, Dorrington J, Clayton, Forster, Lanigan, Hunt, Kincart (Smith 40), Fairbrother, Harrison (Captain), Quinn (Dorrington B 74), Morgan (Ashcroft 52), Walton, Altham (King 47), Williamson (Deeks 56), Rudkin Otley: Irvine, Taylor, Derry, Holmes, Graham, Crossland, Rowntree (Connor), Warren-Lambert, Hodge, Mullin (Ademakin/Lunn), Malthouse, Green, Baxter (Moss), Gibson, Jarman (Nicholls)
www. fylderugby .co.uk
23
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
26
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
27
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
BLACKBURN 3 (h) 25-9
Otley (a)
WIRRAL 2 (h) walk-over
Clitheroe 2 (a)
48-29
HULL RUFC (h) LEEDS TYKES (a)
Preston G 2 (a) Rochdale 2 (a)
Ormskirk 2 (a) Garstang 2 (a)
BILLINGHAM (h) WHARFEDALE (a)
BLACKBURN 2 (h)
Fleetwood 2 (a)
SHEFFIELD RUFC (h)
ROCHDALE 2 (h)
Thornton C 2 (a)
28
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
29
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
30
FRCF: GIRLS RUGBY SHINES AT NATIONAL T1 RUGBY FESTIVAL
The spirit of rugby was on full display at the recent National T1 Rugby Year 7 & Year 8 Girls Rugby Festival, where over 80 young players came together for a day of passion, teamwork, and exhilarating competition. Held in a fantastic atmosphere, the event showcased the dedication and determination of schools from across the region, including:
demonstrated the bright future of girls’ rugby and the impact of initiatives aimed at growing the game.
Amelia Summersgill-Smith, Programme Lead, expressed her delight at the success of the festival, saying: “It was an incredible day filled with passion, power, and teamwork. Seeing so many young players give their all on the field was truly inspiring. The commitment from the schools, the coaches, and the players was outstanding, and it’s fantastic to witness the growth of girls’ rugby at this level.” A huge congratulations to all participants for their hard work and dedication. With such a strong showing of talent and sportsmanship, the future of girls’ rugby is looking brighter than ever!
– Unity Burnley - Bury Grammar - Irlam and Cadishead Academy - St Mary’s Catholic Academy Blackpool
- Garstang Community Academy - Millfield High School Thornton
From the first whistle to the final play, the festival was a celebration of the sport, fostering skill development, camaraderie, and an undeniable love for rugby. The high energy and enthusiasm from the players
31
FYLDE RUGBY COMMUNITY FOUNDATION: ELITE DEVELOPMENT DAY SENIORTEAMSFIXTURES & RESULTS 2024-25 TOPRUGBY PODCASTS One of the most significant changes in the media landscape in the last five years is the extraordinary growth of podcasts – regular audio and/or video pieces on, it seems, every topic under the sun. These can be accessed on any digital device (desk or laptop computer, iPad and mobile phone) as long as you have some kind of network access. They can be recordings of radio programmes or, more usually, are original productions and made available globally. There are thousands of sports podcasts followed by millions of sports lovers. Rugby has a growing menu of these and the point of this short article is to identify some of the best ones. Podcasts vary in production standards but the great majority are highly professional. What follows is a personal, perhaps idiosyncratic, selection of just six enjoyable pods. There are many others which you can explore which may be more to your tastes. Beware, following these can become highly addictive but great fun! Search for these titles on Google to gain simple (mostly free) access to them. 1. Rugby Union Weekly (from BBC Radio 5 Live). Ugo Monye, Chris Jones, Danny Care and Chris Ashton bring you special guests and cover the biggest stories in rugby union. Several programmes a week including in recent days * 6 Nations: Lions watch with the Wallaby captain (41 mins); * 6 Nations: How do England stop France and the GOAT Dupont (40 mins); 6 Nations: The weekend review with Barclay & Warburton (56 mins). 2. Stick to Rugby: published by The Overlap. Join rugby legends Lawrence Dallaglio, David Flatman, Tom Shanklin, and Katy Daley-McLean as they share real stories, fresh perspectives, and dive into everything you love about the game. They aim to involve legendary guests from ex-pros, to celebrity fans. (first episode 29th Jan 2025) 3. Rugby Lives: published by The Rugby Journal. Another brand new podcast which is bringing interviews with people from beyond the sport of rugby to talk about their passion for the oval ball. The first two interviews this week are with actor/comedian Danny Roche and Michelin-starred chef and lifelong Gloucester fan Tom Kerridge who talks about his love for the Cherry & Whites growing up in the West Country and the role models he found at his local club. 4. T he Rugby Pod: Think pub chat, but with some of the biggest characters in the game including Big Jim Hamilton, Andy Goode, Dan Biggar, Producer Rob and weekly guests. Claims that it’s “the most listened to Rugby podcast in the world”. Cover the latest news, rumours insight and stories, but with plenty of humour, opinions and “the best interviews from the game”, including current and former internationals. Recent episodes include: * England Falter, Ireland Fire & Scotland Survive (71 mins); * Le Crunch, Le Craic and Le Colosseum - 6 Nations Week 2 preview (46 mins); * The Shaun Edwards Special- the toughest coach in rugby (46 mins) 5. The Eggchasers Rugby Podcast is a Rugby Union Podcast that doesn’t take itself, or the game, too seriously. One of the longest running rugby podcasts. Tim Cocker, Jonathan Beardmore & Phil Largan have a lifetime of following & playing rugby and bring you real rugby chat straight from the clubhouse. Recent pods include: * “HAPPY SIXMAS”: previewing the Six Nations AND look back over the rugby week, including the Bill Sweeney interview and Premiership rugby week. * “BISMARCK PANZER” The final round of Pool games in the Champions Cup, looking ahead to the Knockout stages and reviewing the international squad announcements for the 6 Nations. * “CHAMPIONS CUP ROUND 3” Some belting matches. Some less so. The rugby week wrapped up. Plus a bunch of rugby and non rugby twists and turns...obvs. 6. F or The Love of Rugby: England’s most capped men love rugby. Ben Young is a scrum-half so he’s spent most of his 127 games chatting away to team-mates, opposition and referees. His mate Dan Cole is still in the England squad and has cult hero status thanks to his no-nonsense approach to most of life’s events. They’ve spent 20 years together at Leicester Tigers, toured together for the British & Irish Lions and now podcast together every week. They’ll bring you their ultimate guide to rugby’s biggest games, give you a behind the scenes tour of Twickenham and tell you what really happens inside an England camp. They also have guests including some of the biggest names in rugby. 32
SOROPTIMISTS SPONSOR GIRLS RUGBY SECONDARY SCHOOLS PROGRAMME
The Fylde Rugby Community Foundation is delighted to announce that Blackpool & District Soroptimists are now the proud supporters of the Blackpool and District Soroptimists Girls Rugby Secondary School Programme. This new programme will introduce hundreds of young girls in Blackpool to rugby, helping to break down barriers to sports participation and empower them through physical activity. Through this initiative, 240 Year 7 girls from four state secondary schools in Blackpool will have the opportunity to take part in rugby sessions, designed to build confidence, teamwork, and a passion for sport. The programme aims to create a clear pathway for girls to join established girls rugby teams at Fleetwood and Fylde Rugby Clubs, encouraging long-term participation in the sport. Blackpool Soroptimists, a women’s organisation dedicated to empowering and supporting girls and women, recognise the importance of providing opportunities for young girls. Especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds to engage in sport. Research shows that girls from lower socio- economic backgrounds are significantly less likely to participate in physical activity due to lack of access, confidence, and role models. By supporting this programme, Blackpool Soroptimists are helping to bridge that gap and ensure that girls in Blackpool can experience the life-changing benefits of sport. Soroptimist International works locally, nationally and internationally to transform the lives of women and girls, part of a global volunteer movement with 80,000 members in 124 countries.
Phill Mills, Foundation Director says: “We are pleased to have the support from Blackpool Soroptimists in bringing this programme to Blackpool. Empowering girls through sport aligns perfectly with our vision, and we believe this initiative will have a lasting positive impact on the lives of these young girl beneficiaries.” The Blackpool SI Girls Rugby Secondary School Programme marks a significant step towards greater inclusivity in sport, ensuring that girls from all backgrounds have the opportunity to develop a love for rugby in a supportive and welcoming environment.
For further information, please contact www.sigbi. org/blackpool-and-district
Locally they meet one Thursday evening a month at North Shore Golf Club, Devonshire Road. Give them a try – you will be most welcome!
www. fylderugby .co.uk
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