The Wisbech Wildcats held a minute’s silence for the recent passing of Paul Wuttke, former player, captain and committee member.

Following the silence, the Wildcats played their first Saturday game of the season having played one Friday night ‘under the lights’ match on February 9.

The match saw the Wildcats claim a 24-17 win over their neighbours, West Norfolk.

In their most recent game, Wisbech Wildcats vs St Ives, Wisbech started the brighter of the two sides with young Henry and Will Lankfer dominating the centres.

Wisbech opened the scoring in the first five minutes when Ollie White dived over the line from close range.

Wisbech Wildcats continued to dominate the first half, building a healthy lead and conceding only one try to St Ives.

However, the second half was a different story.

St Ives began to string some phases of their own together and was able to score three more tries in a highly entertaining match played in goof spirit.

With tries scored by Ollie White, Will and Henry Lankfer and Robert Smith and a strong defence from the Wildcats allowed them to hold out for their first home win of the season.

Olly Mackett, club captain, said: “It was good to see some young, new and former players making the effort and turning out for the Wildcats, it strengthens the adult side, good for rugby and our Club”

Noah Newton had a solid game on the wing, comfortable in both defence and attack.

Young Luke Green and Sam Cook caused problems with some powerful runs to get over the gain line with veterans Agris Kokars and Paul Lee’s experience telling through the match.

But the two Lankfer brothers Will and Henry dominated from start to finish, even when they swapped positions and were jointly awarded the Round Table man-of-the- match award.

The game finished, Wisbech Wildcats 35 – St Ives Bulls 22.

Wisbech Rugby Club wants to thank St Ives RUFC for taking on the fixture at late notice and travelling to Wisbech.

Wisbech Wildcats are in action Friday night ‘under the lights’ in a round robin tournament at West Norfolk and on Saturday 1 - XV host Newmarket, 3pm.

Talking of the passing of Paul Wuttke, a club spokesman said: “We are saddened to learn of the death of Paul Wuttke, at the age of 58 years old.

“Paul regularly attended home games and could often be found enjoying himself in what became known as “Wookies corrner” in the bar with his legendary quick witty banter.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones. RIP old friend.”