Apologies to regular readers for the delay in providing a review of the KL match . In the absence of Michael or Martin I tried to make some notes during the match, however during the 15 minute snow storm they were destroyed. What follows is a combination of notes from the KL website and a bit of memory recall.

KL certainly started the stronger and were quickly on the front foot taking play well into Wigton territory. We did not help our cause missing a number of first up tackles and after 5 minutes David Barton took advantage by breaking the line and crossing from 15 metres with Tom Picthall converting.

We responded well to the early set back and good interplay from Pattinson, Moffat and Clark took play up to the KL line and resulted in a 5 metre scrummage. We then spent 5 minutes in their red zone moving through plenty of phase play but unable to break their defence and finally the ball was turned over and KL cleared their line to halfway. A midfield penalty allowed KL to kick and we were quickly under pressure again on our line. We managed to resist a couple of push over attempts but a strong drive on the 3rd scrum from Nunber 8 Craig Galbraith saw him crash over up the short side.

KL went on to score 2 more tries through Matt Hughes and David Barton with Picthall converting one - half time 24 - 0.

Wigton turned round playing up the slope and into a strengthening breeze and were certainly going to have to 'up' their game to avoid a heavy defeat. Not for the first time this season they were able to respond and play some effective rugby - the turnaround in defensive structure was frustrating KL and leading to a number of turnovers. We lost Lindsay Walker and Andrew Prentice to injuries but replacements Dave Waning and Shaun Clorley did their bit to shore up the scrummage. On 3 occasions KL went for push over scores but were repelled.

From midfield play David Hanabury got the back line moving well and both Jonny Charters and Ryan Clark benefited with runs into the KL 20 metre but credit to Kirkby as their scramble defence held out. Aron Henderson replaced Ryan Wannop for his third appearance and again showed that he has potential at this level. Against the run of play Kirkby countered well and after conceding a couple of penalties we were under pressure again - winger Harry Ralston touched down out wide on the overlap.

As the snow storm arrived Wigton got a foothold in the KL half - some great lineout ball from Richard Jackson allowed Stuart Creighton to get the driving maul play going - and after a number of mauls close to the line Fergus opened play out. Dave Hanabury managed to get on the outside of Barton and slide in for a try. The final whistle came soon after and the playing groups resembled a pack of hounds on the chase as they headed for the clubhouse and respite from the cold.

Very much a case of being 'slow off the bus' but not sure why - preparations went well but a lack of focus and concentration in the first 15 minutes proved crucial. Signs that as experienced players return we can expect performances to improve but still some massive challenges ahead. Finally, thanks to Kirby for the traditional 'pot of tea' which was very well received.... and drained within minutes!