W'ton invest in youth

Wolverhampton turned their early season promise into something more tangible on Saturday with a10-8 win against Old Saltleians.

Director of rugby Quentin Webster last week called for his players to show more 'mental toughness' in the closing stages of games and that is exactly what his side displayed during a lengthy second half defensive rearguard.

The Castlecroft Road men even found themselves down to 13 men following yellow cards to fly-half Chris Lennon and number 8 Mike Quick but still showed the character to hold firm.

Scrum-half Todd Mcentee, 18, was man of the match and had his opposite number 'in his pocket', according to Webster, who believes the club's policy of investing in youth is starting to reap rewards.

He said: "It really was a game of two halves. We were up against it in the second half but the attitude we showed was brilliant.

"I was pleased with that the most after what we had said last week. This performance is evidence that our policy about bringing in young players is working.

But despite a winning performance, Saturday's opponents Stafford will face a changed Wolverhampton side.

Andy Smales comes in at fly-half for Chris Lennon and Richard Bolton is back in the centre.

Webster added: "We do not know a lot about Stafford because they have come down a league.

"But we are expecting another tough game."

Stafford left the field scratching their heads after losing 25-10 to league leaders Stoke.

The two sides found themselves in similar positions at the beginning of this season, having both being relegated last year. But Stoke have started the season much brighter.

Several breakaway scores from the home side made for a misleading final scoreline.