Amateur RL: Simms Cross pay the perfect tribute to Chris Percival

Sep 30 2010 by Diane Brown (Crewe), Runcorn and Widnes Weekly News

Simms Cross 36 Shevington 8

SIMMIES remain unbeaten in the North West Counties Premier Division after beating a brave Shevington side, despite having Paul Walsh sent off after 20 minutes for alleged swearing.

Before the game kicked-off, players from both sides observed a minute’s silence in memory of former Widnes Vikings and Simms Cross player Chris Percival, who passed away on September 15 after battling cancer.

Simmies made a storming start. Kieron Kavanagh opened the scoring with a good try converted by Alan Billington. Soon after, Ben Bailey collected a pass and blasted his way over to touch down. Billington kicked the goal.

Shevington then reduced the deficit with a great try from 60 yards from wingman Gallagher.

But Simmies came back through tries Stoneley and Kavanagh, with his second, which Billington goaled.

Just before the break, Brian Capewell kicked a penalty from 40 yards to take the hosts’ interval lead up to 20-4.

Simmies started the second half strongly and Brendon Kavanagh scored a try wide out, before Shevington hit back with a try from Bravey. Capewell then landed another penalty goal and Brendon Kavanagh scored his second try after a neat kick through.

The hosts wrapped up the scoring with Nick Fox powering his way over for a try and Capewell completed the scoring with the conversion.

The Offafix Reinforcing/TKL Timber Reclaim MoM award was won by Mike Randall with Lee Swain second and Ben Bailey third.

This week, the Simms Cross first team are away to Bank Quay Bulls while the second team are at home to Blackbrook 2nds. All players to meet at 12.30pm.