A BUMBER crowd saw Caldy take on Westoe in National Two North after an emotional fortnight for the club. Numerous people turned out to pay their respects to Sion Williams, who passed away on October 31, with a one minute silence and one minute applause as well as a guard of honour by his side the Under-9s for all of the players.

In a thrilling game Caldy edged home 36-29, with fantastic rugby by both sides in a fitting tribute.

Head coach Stuart Turner was impressed with his side’s performance and said: “Last week’s game was a very tough one for everyone both physically and emotionally. We played pretty well in patches and I am sure it was good for all of the spectators with five tries and some sensational passages of play.

“They had a good scrum and very good defence as well as a strong kicking game.

“We scored a couple of good tries and a quick thinking one through John Broxson, and we probably could have scored a couple more if our finishing had been a little tidier.

“Unfortunately, there was a nasty injury to Rich Vasey but knowing how dedicated he is I am sure he will be back as soon as he can, probably bigger and better than ever. We will miss his leadership and his organisation and everyone wishes him well in his recovery.”

Turner added: “There were some excellent performances from Derek Salisbury, Harry Broadbent whilst he was on the pitch and Shaun Woof, who deservedly won the man of the match award for a stand out performance.”

This weekend, Caldy first XV travel to Sheffield, who had a close game with league leaders Loughborough last weekend and Turner is aware of the threats involved.

“Sheffield will be another difficult challenge,” he said. “We know a couple of their players, including Swatkins, Feeley and Broadley, who are all strong players and form a dangerous back three.

“Simon Bunting was at Rotherham when I was there and is a good tough prop. We have to re-group after the weekend and work hard through the week.”

Caldy second XV are at home this weekend against Burnage in a significant game in the Bateman BMW Premier League.