Generous Leo’s hand Morley straightforward victory

With a healthy and experienced looking squad, featuring all positions covered correctly and a 4 man bench hopes were high pre-match. What transpired was an occasionally focused and competitive performance but a generally insipid one where application was somewhat lacking and possession not valued. It wasn’t an appalling performance, just below par and lacking the normal Leo’s gumption against a very well organised and skilful Morley side.
The visitors ran in tries at will after a surprising start where snoozing Morley allowed the ball to bobble over their own line from the kick off reception and James H dived on it for the earliest Leo’s try ever. It was sadly not a portent of the remaining 79 minutes. Too many tackles were missed with even the Cadgeraurus being bounced off and the ball was regularly turned over at the breakdown where Morley were more aggressive and competitive. The visitors ran hard and fast with good supporting lines as Leo’s looked to be overrun in the opening stages but the home side dug deep and reorganised well. Hard running from Tom C Stevo and James pressed Morley back and the Scotty steered mauls made good yard too. But when possession was not secure turnover ball was returned with interest. A number of tries were conceded before quick thinking Ryan P scampered upfield from a quick tap, found supporting Dave H who himself offloaded skilfully to Tim M for a second Leo’s try.
At half time and 4-2 down on the try count Leo’s felt they were still in it at 14-20 thanks to Tim Leslie’s boot. Sadly for Leo’s Morley had more in their tank and increased their lead almost at will. Leo’s showed more spirit in the second half and even The Portly Magician made a tackle as attempts to stem the tide resembled the scenes in the Somerset Levels. Plan A made an impression and for a reasonable period Leo’s were playing in Morley’s 22. Blakey and the backs worked hard but couldn’t break through the strong visiting line before a few catch and drives saw Rob B receive the ball 3 yards out and be rogered over the line by Cadgey. Tim M added his second and Leo’s fourth with a 40 yard dribble, bobble, stumble following a cheeky chip into the mud but Morley ran out the worthy winners.
Battered and bloodied Leo’s retired to the warmth of the changing room to a welcoming cheeseboard supplied by Farmer Jim.