St. Mary's rugby senior section took on two schools 1st XVs today and managed to win both. The 1st XV won 46-5 against William Hulme Grammar School in a solid performance. Tries came from top try scorer Nick Carter (three), Gavin Griffiths (two), with one each from Ollie Gallagher, Jacob Allen and Sean Marren. Oliver Gallagher converted three of the tries.

On the other pitch, the 2nd XV took on QEGS Blackburn 1st XV and were simply outstanding. Losing 5-0 after five minutes and playing into the wind, St. Mary's decided to move the ball around against a much larger pack. The ball went through several pairs of hands and a move started by Jordan Bradshaw and involving Joe Reade, Jonny Ford (who played well at centre) and the captain Tom Vandermeer who was returning from injury was finished off in style by Michael Bennett.

The score at half-time was 5 all and St. Mary's appeared to have weathered the storm. However, QEGS started the second half well with a try which was just reward for their superiority in the close play.

Joe Reade then took control of the game and used the wind to keep the opposition in their 22. From this James Taylor scored another fine team try and then the powerful hardworking Alex Fairhurst scored another well deserved try. Finally, James Taylor who worked tirelessly all day scored a try from a kick by Reade well chased by Mark McLaughlin and Michael Bennett both of whom were outstanding throughout.

It was the opinion of many onlookers that several of the boys had their finest games for St. Mary's. Dalitso Mwandumba, Jack Morris Holland, Tom Alman, Greg Best, Jordan Bradshaw and Daniel Cousins were excellent and George Lightfoot had a fine game on his return to rugby after injury.

Richard Murray did very well when he came on as did Jonathan Formby who got through some great work. It was very pleasing to see Tom Vandermeer back playing. Tom has made more 1st XV appearances than any one currently at the school and it was a delight to see him on his return captain the 2nd XV.

However, all three PE teachers singled out Joe McGrady as man of the match whose tackle count was astonishing and who put in several tackles that kept St. Mary's in the game. This was without doubt his best ever game for St. Mary's.

Well done to all the boys and congratulations.