The coaching staff will be working hard during the coming week to prepare for the toughest of tests

It is always a difficult trip to Headlands Road. Stockport are a strong side and have cemented their place in this division. By contrast the blacks have found life tough this season and have found themselves struggling to develop any continuity. Head coach Sam Naylor has been frustrated with so many players on the injury list and once again there was a need to re-shuffle the team. However, he was pleased to welcome skipper Rory Leijdekkers back to the fold as well as Sam Patterson and Joe Christian.

Northwich began well setting a fast tempo to proceedings. Stockport weathered the storm and took control of the ball. With barely 10 minutes on the clock the home side mounted a sustained attack creating multiple phases before moving the ball wide for a try in the corner. A pattern was set with Stockport holding the ball well and Northwich organised in defence. After a period of pressure Northwich were awarded a goal-line drop out. The ball was returned by Stockport in fine style and with the half drawing to a close they scored an unconverted try which took the wind out of the visitors sails. Half Time Stockport 10 Northwich 0

The biggest blow came within 5 minutes of the re-start. A Stockport lineout led to an attack and following some click handling a third unconverted try was scored. Two minutes later the smile returned to the faces of the faithful. Northwich collected the ball in their own half and the Fire& Heat Man of the Match Rory Leijdekkers made a decisive break. He ignored the would-be defenders and shrugged off their attentions to set up a ruck close to the Stockport line. The ball was recycled and moved wide for Zac Richardson to cross the line for an unconverted try. There was still plenty to play for when ten minutes later Richard Dale was shown the tallow card much to the surprise of the travelling support. From the ensuing penalty Stockport opted for a scrum and launched an attack taking full advantage of the extra man they scored a bonus point try. Once again, the extras went begging but the result was becoming inevitable. Five minutes later the home side scored a 5th try and with the extras added the writing was on the wall for the blacks. Nevertheless, Northwich continued to look for a way to break through the Stockport defence. With ten minutes remaining Northwich launched an attack. They were awarded a penalty close to the Stockport line and a quick tap provided the tireless Joe Christian with the opportunity to score a well deserved try. The conversion was missed, and time was running out. The blacks continued to press but the Stockport defence held firm to see the match out a finish 27-10 victors.

Northwich were too cavalier in their approach but there was a lot to be positive about. Sam Patterson, Eon Du Preez and Patrick Douglas all made big contributions to a side that showed true spirit.

Next Week Northwich entertain Manchester KO 2.15 pm.
Northwich Team

15 Taylor Haugh

14 Tom Husbands

13 Boitumelo Tsatsane

12 Logan Mitchell

11 Austin Fernandez

10 Zac Richardson

9 Harry Naylor

1 Callum Hulbert

2 Eon Du Preez

3 Rory Leijdekkers (Capt)

4 Sam Patterson

5 Patrich Douglas

6 Aaron Collins

7 Joe Christian

8 Richard Dale