Match Preview

This weekend Otley go to ninth placed Macclesfield.

The victory against South Leicester last weekend was a great testament to the way the Cross Greeners having been playing over the last couple of weeks. Having picked up 11 points against higher placed opposition over the last four games, the lads should be in buoyant mood going over to Cheshire.

Another win will help seal Otley’s status in this division for another year, and it is better not to leave things until the last few games. Otley beat Macclesfield 23-17 when they came to Cross Green, although since then the appointment of Marshall Gadd as coach shortly afterwards has seen them win eight of their last 12 matches.

They have the same feeling as us in their 37-0 defeat against Sale FC last week flattered the league leaders, we have the same opinion about our result at Heywood Road in February.

Rugby was first play in Macclesfield in 1874 under the auspices of the 8th Cheshire Rifle Volunteers, and three years later Macclesfield Rugby Club was formed. The current club was established on New Year’s Day in 1927 with a game against Davenport (later became Stockport) – with a 10.45am kick-off!

After playing at several venues, the club moved to its present home in 1980. Five years later they participated in the forerunner to the launch of the national league system when they participated in the Girobank North West League. Over the last 25 years Macclesfield have climbed the pyramid spending one season in National One during the 2012–13 season before being relegated but bouncing straight back after winning promotion during 2013–14 Season.

Macclesfield, aka the Blues, have spent the remaining years yo-yoing National 1 and National 2 North. Having been relegated in 2014-15, they were crowned N2N champions in the following season and returned to National 1, picking up the Cheshire Cup along the way. However, the tenure was short-lived and they returned to N2N this season.

The men from Priory Park have their sights set on a top eight finish, something we will make as difficult as possible for them on Saturday!

For those travelling to the game – SK10 4AF
Directions:
Their Priory Park ground is on the outskirts of the town off the B5087. Aim for Prestbury village, turn right up hill at roundabout following signs for Macclesfield (B5087) Go straight across crossroads (slight dogleg) into Priory Lane and the ground is about 75 yards on the right.

Go Otley!!