3rds victors in close encounter with Congleton

Report by Roger Boothman
After en enforced blank week end the thirds arrived at Grove Park full of vigour and eager to carry on from the previous encounter. True to form the starting line up was finalised as the referee blew his whistle to start. Straight out of the blocks Terry Chatterton showed his pristine heels to not only the opposition but his fellow team mates who he left in his wake to score under the posts. To save both time and energy a quick drop kick conversion left the score 7-0. However not to be out done Congleton stormed back and the first of many interpretation penalties narrowed the gap. With so many Manchester players playing out of position quality ball from set pieces was difficult and Congleton capitalised to score a try to lead 8-7. However cometh the moment once again clean heels Terry jinked his way past his floundering team mates to restore the lead. Half time 14-8.

The second half started with the news that due to circumstances uncontested scrums were the order of the day, net result the thirds were a man down. With this bonus Congleton’s number eight began to run the scrums and consequently they built up a 21-14 lead. With time running out the super young ‘vet’ James Hogard added his class and rounded off a superb inter change to again score under the posts, 21-21, a frenetic last eight minutes in store made even more exciting with the second yellow card of the day. Manchester down to 13! After Congleton missed a very kickable penalty from the infringement Terry, not one to jug dodge, Chatterton then ran from his own half to secure a very hard fought victory, with his third under the posts.

Once again team spirit and hard work secured a win and the thirds now look forward to their well earned rest next week. To end however special mention needs noting to the numerous players who showed superb club commitment and played out of position. At one stage there was a rumour that Manchester had a forward in the scrum. With so many backs in the front five the victory was even more sweet.

Well done lads.