HAWCOAT Rugby Union first team faced Wigton in a hard-fought contest that left the visitors with a bonus point win.

It was the green and white Wigton squad that got the long bus journey out of their legs quick to start the game the strongest.

Hawcoat’s defence had to be good as the first part of the game was all played in their half.

Second row Chris Thompson led by example and was to put in a full grafting 80 minutes, while team captain Andy Kent was another rallying his troops in his usual unassuming way.

Wigton took the lead with a try 15 minutes in, but Hawcoat slowly got into the game and had a spell where their scrum was dominant.

Young prop Lewis Phillips was having a strong game but unfortunately had to leave with a damaged shoulder, Mike Gibson replaced him and had his usual solid game.

Hawcoat gained the lead after a try from Alfie White and a kick from Will Coles.

Half time saw the Hawcoat take over and finish the first half on 12-7.

The second half started well and saw good work by scrum half Jack Shannon and Matt Sayle.

Following a couple of frustrated attempts for a push over White took matters into his own hands to forcefully crash over for his second try. Coles’ conversion attempt just missed.

Wigton fought back and managed to push back on Hawcoat and reach a score of 20 against their 12.

The Wigton three quarters moved the ball out wide our centre Ryan Clegg was covering well to put in some telling tackles but it came as no surprise when their centre found the space for their fourth bonus point earning try.

Full time saw the end score on 12-27.