It has been some years since Northwich met Douglas in league competition. When the fixtures were published there was a significant interest from the faithful to make the journey to support the Black & Gold. There was a suspicion that this was more about sampling the delights of Douglas than the rugby. And following the disappointing result at the hands of the islanders a night on the town was certainly in order.

Prior to the trip Northwich were buoyed by the return of Richard Dale and the inclusion of new boy Tshipane Mthembu giving an air of optimism for the contest.

Any complacency was quickly dashed as an early driving lineout led to an unconverted try and first blood to Douglas. The blacks were then dealt a massive blow as Dale was forced to leave the field of play with an arm injury, bringing Jack Owens to replace. 10 minutes into the match the home lead was pegged back with a penalty for Man of the Match Harry Naylor. On the 30-minute mark Douglas extended their lead with a converted try from another driven lineout. At this point Douglas were in the driving street and Northwich seemed to be still on the plane. New boy Tshipane Mthembu went on a charge forcing a penalty that was converted by Harry Naylor. With half time approaching the home side kicked another penalty to end the half and take clear advantage.

Half time Douglas 18 Northwich 6

The half brought a couple of changes with CL Botha replaced with Harry Bennet and Boitumelo Tsatsane moving to the centre. Tom Husbands was the next casualty and Anthony Keller entered the fray. At one point it looked like Keller had scored a try only for the pass to be judged forward. With 20-minutes of the match remaining there was more uncharacteristic defensive lapses leading to an unconverted try for the home side. Botha returned as Charlie Bancroft made way. A decisive break by Naylor led to a quick tap penalty the ball was fed to Curtis Finnigan who finished off with a great try. At this point the match was delayed as a nasty clash of heads required two of the Douglas players to leave the field. There was an 11-minute delay before Naylor could add the extras and give the visitor a glimmer of hope. The clock winding down the blacks had an opportunity to secure a bonus point. From a lineout the ball was secured, and Northwich drove for the line. However, the ball went loose, and Douglas took full advantage scoring a converted try and take all the glory. With both players and supporters dejected it was time to reflect on what went wrong.

With one eye on the treatment table to Northwich coaching team will have to prepare for the visit of League leaders Firwood Waterloo for their visit to Moss Farm on Saturday.

Next Saturday Northwich entertain Firwood Waterloo KO 2.15pm