The weather was absolutely perfect for a great game of rugby as Stockton Lane was the venue as Warrington's Under-14 team continued their impressive start to the Lancashire Cup, with a dominant display against a resilient Blackburn side in the second game of the tournament. Both teams had secured wins in their opening games, setting the stage for a fierce contest.

The tone was set straight from the kick-off, as Joss Ivins took the ball with determination, powering his way through Blackburn’s defence and driving deep into their territory. Swift support play followed, which allowed Warrington to recycle the ball effectively, quickly getting it into the hands of Logan Jones, who crossed the try line for the game’s opening score. Will Reynolds added the extras with a solid conversion, putting Warrington 7-0 ahead.

The first half continued in the same vein, with Warrington’s attacking flair and solid defence keeping the pressure on Blackburn. Blackburn showed great heart and defensive effort, but Warrington's sharp handling and well-drilled phase play saw them break the line repeatedly.

Three more tries followed in the half, all unanswered by Blackburn, whose efforts were continuously thwarted by Warrington’s defence and structure. Leo Povey was the second to score a try in the corner for a 12-0 lead. Logan Jones then scored his second with a barnstorming run through the defence to score under the posts, Will Reynolds converting for a 19-0 lead.

There was just time for a last score in the first half, Logan Jones made another great break, and looked like his 3rd try was a given, but a brilliant chase back from the Blackburn defender saw him tackled just before the line, but Will Reynolds had supported his run, so he was there to scoop the ball up and dive over the line, Will then converted his own try for a 26 – 0 half time lead

The second half, however, saw a shift in momentum, beginning as a scrappier affair. Warrington’s discipline waned, as repeated penalties allowed Blackburn to gain territory and build pressure. This culminated in Blackburn’s first try, which they powered over to reduce the deficit, to 26 – 5.

Warrington then regrouped and rediscovered their rhythm, resulting in a fantastic team play that saw Logan Jones cross the line again, securing his hat trick, and capping a brilliant performance from him. Will Reynolds converted for a 33 – 5 scoreline.

Yet discipline issues resurfaced, and Blackburn capitalised on further penalties, driving towards the Warrington line, they then recycled the ball quickly which they took full advantage of to add their second try, which was successfully converted, 33 -12.

Sensing the need to regain control, Warrington went back to their great defence, with Ralph Kreisler, Aidan Short, and debutant Dexter Spurling delivering three consecutive thunderous tackles that forced Blackburn back nearly 30 yards. The regained possession saw Warrington progress steadily up field with coordinated phase play, culminating in Dexter Spurling finishing his debut with a superb slaloming try, sealing the win. Final score 38 - 12

This performance highlighted both the strengths and areas for growth in Warrington’s game. They remain unbeaten in the tournament, showcasing relentless pace and power in both attack and defence, but will need to tighten their discipline as they prepare for their next fixture.

MOM – Leo Povey