Northwich 7-64 Rossendale

Northwich 7 Rossendale 64

Unfortunately for Northwich this match was a repeat of previous week. The blacks seem to be competitive (without making any real impression) in the first half, only to fade in the second. It is a privilege to be playing in this division and most players are relishing the opportunity to compete with some well organised and accomplished teams. This was the case today as one of the longest established teams in this division Rossendale, came to town. The last time we met our visitors was the season they gained promotion to North Premier so Northwich were pleased to welcome them back to Moss Farm.

Andy Roberts was pleased to have Chris and Richard Dale back in the fold along with Scott Davidson. However, Josh Warburton, Rory Williams, Sam Naylor and Skipper Nick Baldwin were not available.

The visitors scored 4 tries in the first half 2 of which were converted. With the first try scored after just 3 minutes it looked like it would be one-way traffic all afternoon. This was not the case as the blacks enjoyed plenty of possession and territory. The highlight was a nice break from Harry Naylor, taking them close to the line, but getting no reward. Nevertheless there was a glimmer of optimism for the faithful to latch onto.

Two early converted tries for the visitors extinguished any hope the blacks may have had. Despite the efforts of the Northwich team they were unable to halt the advances of a buoyant Rossendale team. Three further converted tries took us to the 75th minute when some quick hands gave Husbands the gap to exploit and score a well deserved try. Husbands converted his try and some pride was restored. Sadly Rossendale were not done and a final unconverted try in stoppage time sealed the blacks fate

Andy Roberts was pleased with the efforts of the lads especially Harry Naylor and Harley Aston who proved to be an encouraging half-back partnership.

Next week Northwich visit neighbours Winnington Park in the Cheshire Vase KO 2.15pm

1 Tom Wilson 2 Fraser Dodd 3 Mark Thompson 4 Chris Heywood 5 Tom Clark 6 Aaron Collins 7 Anthony Keller 8 Chris Dale 9 Harry Naylor 10 Harley Aston11 Kyle Clarke12 James Weeks13 Joel Barber14 Tom Merrick15 Tom Husbands16 Richard Dale17 Scott Davidson 18 Ben Ridgway