Wolves boys pack a punch

On a day when conditions ruled out the possibility of any free-flowing rugby, Wolves ground out a 22-16 success to climb above their opponents into second place.

And forwards coach Ian Harley was quick to praise the efforts of his pack against a strong Stafford outfit.

“We had beaten Stafford quite comfortably in a few recent meetings, but this wasn’t the Stafford of last season,” said Harley.

“They had added a few players and they have a strong pack and a very good number eight. I think our players were a bit shocked early on by their intensity and physicality.

“But our pack really responded. Not only did they step up to the plate, but they also scored all of our tries while Ben Barnes, who had to move into the back row during the game, kicked two conversions and a penalty.”

Tries from second row Nathan Parker, number eight Pete McMahon and tight-head prop Luca Di Giovanni capped a fine display from the pack as Wolves were forced to abandon their more usual attacking approach.

“Our pitch normally drains quite well, but with the rain we had on Saturday the water just sat on top,” added Harley. “ It was like a skating rink and it was carnage for the first 20 minutes, the ball was squirting out all over the place.

“It wasn’t a game for the backs. It was a forward-oriented game and a day when you had to get the job done.

“We scored from a catch and drive and a scrum push, while one of our props also scored. It was a great display from all the pack. We were camped on our own line at the end and they showed great heart to keep Stafford out.”

Stafford’s points came via tries from Alosio Yamoyamo and Carl Williams, plus two two Louis Dewsbury penalties.

Wolves face another tough test at the weekend when they head to leaders Leek while Stafford host Tamworth.