The Toc H First XV travelled to Level 6 Widnes on Saturday with a coveted spot in the Lancashire Cup Final on the line. Coming off a recent demoralising defeat, many observers might have predicted a difficult afternoon for the visitors. However, the contest proved to be a galvanising performance that demonstrated significant character and resolve from the Toc H squad.
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​The opening twenty minutes were largely dictated by the hosts. Widnes asserted dominance in both possession and territory, applying consistent pressure that forced Toc H into errors in crucial areas. This early control resulted in two converted tries for Widnes, establishing a commanding 12-0 lead that appeared well-deserved based on the flow of play.
​Just as the match seemed set to run away from them, Toc H responded effectively around the half-hour mark. A well-executed set-piece move allowed winger Alex Mayo to finish in the corner, marking Toc H's first breakthrough. Following this, a successful penalty conversion by Joe Macpherson narrowed the deficit to 12-8.
​However, Widnes delivered a significant psychological blow just before the interval. A sustained, powerful sequence of forward phases culminated in their third try, pushing the score to 22-8 in favour of the home side at half-time.
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​The half-time huddle clearly ignited a renewed belief within the Toc H camp. The second forty minutes witnessed a dramatic shift, with Toc H seizing control of possession and tempo, quieting the usually enthusiastic home crowd.

​Widnes's growing frustration manifested as poor discipline, leading to two yellow cards in quick succession. Capitalising on the numerical advantage, Toc H finally grounded their second try through Tom Atkinson following sustained phase play, bringing the score to 22-13 with just twenty minutes remaining—the contest was firmly back on.
​With ten minutes left on the clock, Macpherson successfully slotted his second penalty, reducing the gap further to 22-16. The final few minutes saw Toc H throw everything forward in pursuit of a winning score. While the effort was undeniable, Widnes’s experience proved vital as they managed the clock expertly in the final five minutes. Ultimately, the hosts secured the victory with a final converted try on the last play of the match.
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​Congratulations to Widnes on their victory and advancement to the Final.

​Despite the result, the Toc H squad has every reason to be immensely proud of the performance delivered. Following difficult conversations and introspection over the preceding two weeks, the team successfully embodied the uncoachable characteristics of heart, spirit, and relentless fight. This performance signals a significant positive step forward for the squad.