23/08/2026
MATCH REPORT
Merseyside Police 16–30 Culcheth Eagles
Never-Say-Die Merseyside Fall Short in the Heat
On a scorching, sunny day, Merseyside Police Rugby League travelled to face Culcheth Eagles with just 13 players available, knowing from the outset that it was going to be a demanding afternoon. Culcheth Eagles are an established community rugby league club with an Open Age side, and the conditions made the challenge even greater.
Despite being severely limited in numbers, Merseyside showed tremendous character from the opening whistle. The game ebbed and flowed throughout, with both sides enjoying periods of pressure and momentum.
Merseyside refused to be overawed by the numerical disadvantage and continued to battle for every metre. Reid and Morris led the way with committed performances, while captain Langton showed great leadership, continually driving his side forward and refusing to let the scoreline dampen the team’s spirit.
Lou was also amongst Merseyside’s standout performers, contributing strongly in a game that demanded huge physical and mental effort from every player.
However, as the heat took its toll and the lack of replacements became increasingly difficult to overcome, Culcheth were able to capitalise and eventually establish a 30–10 advantage.
But Merseyside were not finished.
With the final whistle approaching, captain Langton produced a moment of brilliance, breaking away for a sensational 70-yard try to give Merseyside a deserved reward for their never-say-die effort and bring the final score to Culcheth Eagles 30–16 Merseyside Police.
While the result ultimately went against Merseyside, the performance was about far more than the scoreline. With only 13 players, every member of the squad was required to dig deep, and nobody gave up.
Man of the Match – Nolan
The Man of the Match performance was epitomised by Nolan, whose relentless strong running and refusal to take a backward step perfectly summed up the attitude of the Merseyside side.
Nolan carried the ball hard, repeatedly putting his body on the line and giving his teammates something to build from. His performance embodied the spirit shown by the whole team: never say die, never give up and keep fighting until the final whistle.
Despite the 30–16 defeat, Merseyside Police Rugby League can take plenty of pride from the afternoon.
