Field fail to capitalise and pay with defeat

Macclesfield were penalised for not releasing in the tackle when they carried forward after the line-out.

On the stroke of half time Macclesfield got the first try of the match, with Hampson going over in the right-hand corner to make amends for his earlier indiscretion.

The unexpected half-time lead seemed to put a bit of wind in the home team sails and they made a lively start to the second period.

Four minutes in a Morton penalty extended their lead and shortly afterwards their full back Lewis Barker produced the best moment of the game.

Picking up on his own 22 after Huddersfield’s grubber through had failed to find touch, he produced a searing 40-metre break and was well tackled by Joel Hinchliffe tracking back.

After more good play Macclesfield scored their second try mid-way through the half. With the Huddersfield defence stretched, replacement Toby Twigg went over in the lefthand corner.

Huddersfield’s strong forwards always had the edge in the arm wrestle and they put their side back in contention when Austen Thompson powered over in a well-driven maul for a try. Davey added the extras.

Alas, this did not re-establish control of the game for them and Macclesfield answered back almost immediately – No8 Ryan Parkinson going in under the posts for try three which Morton converted.

The final try of the match went to Huddersfield and was almost a carbon copy of their first, with Adam Malthouse being the man to dot down after the drive from the lineout.

Davey’s conversion attempt came back off a post, leaving Huddersfield needing another try to get back on terms with only minutes remaining.

The home side pressed a little more, Huddersfield resisted and made one final thrust, but when they knocked-on in the process Macclesfield secured and hoofed the ball into the stand for the win.

Field head coach Gareth Lewis said: “To dominate the first half like we did and not capitalise is obviously very frustrating.

“Ultimately, if you don’t take your opportunities it comes back to haunt you.

“Macclesfield built up momentum and their full back caused us one or two problems.”

Lewis added: “We learn valuable lessons from this defeat and we must be far more accurate with the ball in hand against Otley on Saturday. I expect us to respond once again.”

Billy Vunipola is set to miss the start of England’s NatWest 6 Nations campaign after suffering a fractured forearm playing for Saracens against Ospreys on Saturday.

Saracens confirmed the injury in a short statement on the club’s official website, leaving England boss Eddie Jones to plan for a likely campaign without the experienced number eight.

Huddersfield YMCA continued their good form with a 34-17 win over Percy Park at Laund Hill. Match report and pictures feature in tomorrow’s Examiner.