Jack Call Cup – April 28th 2007
ORMSKIRK 3RD XV 5 ORMSKIRK 4TH XV 18
The World Cup, the Six Nations Championship, the Heineken Cup. These are all big name trophies in the world of rugby. Add to this list the Jack Call Cup! In Ormskirk, this is the trophy to win. This much coveted piece of silver-ware is the annual award for the winners of the match billed as one of the biggest games in Ormskirk Rugby Club’s calendar. It is the fiercely contested match between Ormskirk 3rd XV and 4th XV and has – on occasions - produced some fine rugby. Not only do the winners claim the trophy but they get bragging rights for the next season. This latest contest was going to be no different. Both sides have enjoyed successful seasons in their respective leagues, finishing in the top half of their merit tables.
So with the sun beating down on Green Lane, the latest chapter in this Club rivalry kicked off. The game was played at a fast tempo from the start and the 3rd XV soon displayed their prowess as Mark Jackson made some darting runs from number 8. However the 4th XV defence stood firm. The rivalry that these two teams have spans most positions on the pitch. From Paul Wallwork and Brian Stevenson in the front row, Paul Doyle and Paul Waywell, the two flying lineout jumpers, to Ian Critchley and …well the whole 4th XV!
It was the 4th XV who drew first blood when their forwards worked the ball up the field and Paul Doyle made a good break from the back of the maul before offloading the ball to Dawson who charged his way over the line to score under the posts. Mark Bailie adding the extras with his trusted boot. Both teams defended well and at times if was difficult to see where the next try was to come from. Then Jim McKeown broke through the 4th XV defence to score for the 3rd XV. The conversion was unsuccessful. As the first half was drawing to a close the match started to live up to its reputation as tempers started to flair and infringements started to creep in. It was from one of these infringements that the 4ths extended their lead when Mark Bailie calmly slotted home a penalty. Half time score - 4ths lead 10-5
More of the same was to follow in the second half with both sides enjoying some valuable possession and at times playing some good rugby. Adam Lee broke from the centres and powered his way through the 3rd team defence as he thundered towards the line. However he was held up short from the line by some valiant tackling from Mark Jackson. This however gave the 4th team the incentive that they needed to raise their game. The 4ths were then awarded another penalty close to the posts and without any hesitation Bailie kicked for goal and stretched their lead to 13-5.
The final try of the game came as the full time whistle approached when the 4ths worked the ball close to the 3rd try line. After Montrose had darted through with a 20 yard scamper, man of the match Paul Doyle took over and snuck under his would be tackler to score. This time no extras.
The final whistle blew and brought an end to this fierce battle with the 4th team capturing the trophy for the first time in 6 years. This capped off an impressive season for the 4ths.
The match saw young and old playing with and against each other in a great exhibition of club spirit. One of the ‘old guard’ – Tony Liversidge – decided to call it a day and hang his boots up after the match. Tony was given a great cheer – but like a bad penny, he’ll undoubtedly be back! A healthy crowd were in the Clubhouse to witness one of ORUFC’s legends – Jack Call himself – present his Trophy. Credit to both Captains and squads of players – a fitting end to a good season from both teams – roll on 2007/2008!!
