Having tried to play 12 v 11, allowing Manchester to rest those school players who clearly needed one, it became evident the match was very one-sided: a virtual training match.
Manchester were far too clinical in keeping the ball moving and exploiting their extra man. On 25 minutes and 8 tries to the good it was agreed that little was to be gained by recording a three figure score.
So at the suggestion of the ref. Manchester payers were loaned and numbers increased on both sides to reduce the amount of running space on the pitch.
14 played 14 for the remainder of the hour long match using all of the visiting bench.
Manchester players still scored a total of 15 tries, but with two of them made whilst playing for Macclesfield, it at least kept the score a bit more respectable.
The Macclesfield coach was delighted with the effort his temporary recruits put in.
The Six Manchester players who put in stints for the opposition were rightly awarded MOMs, with several of their own team having been on the receiving end of their 100% efforts.
Many thanks to Macclesfield for their hospitality and the game. Their players never gave up and it was pleasing to see a Macc. prop score at the end.
Packs may well win matches but you do need a few backs as well or you can get run completely ragged!
This MRFC manager is pleased the Colts league title is never decided on points difference. Ultimately such a rule would be counterproductive for those teams that are struggling with numbers. It's not what rugby is all about.