Fourths victorious in great advert for game
MACCLESFIELD 4TH NORTHWICH 2ND 36 13 MACC’S fourth team competed in a match played with great intensity but with each side respecting their opponents and every player on the field trying his utmost. It was the epitomy of why club rugby is so enjoyable.
The team’s Vice Captain Jeremy Bostock, leading the side in Ryan Brown’s absence due to illness - get better soon Ryan the team needs you – was thrilled at their attitude. He congratulated his side and himself led the dressing room and bar room hi-jinks.
The other tight five forwards, hooker Rupert Dixon, Jim Welch, try scorer Rob James and end of season tour manager Jason Walker played with solidity and huge determination, they scrummaged powerfully and didn’t loose any of their own lines out, Dixon’s throw ins always hitting his jumpers.
Back row players Rob McLeod, Keiran Merriman and Zane Hobart were so tenacious in their defensive tackling and more than valuable to their side in turning over Northwich’s possession in the rucks.
This allowed half backs Paul Smith and Ben Hegginbotham enormous space with ball in hand.
Ben scored a brace of tries either side of half time, his second an absolute gem of individual brilliance.
This coruscating youngster is maturing into the find of the season, his first in senior rugby after orchestrating the Colts successes of last year.
Smith is only an occasional number 9 turned out here in Andrew Foster’s absence, who had badly twisted a knee last week.
The three quarters Phil Pearse, Alfie Wright and Jim Parsons who kicked 3 conversions along with Russ Abbott and Pete Holt guesting from Wilmslow rugby club showed great penetration.
This all allowed full back Phil Humphreys space to further score a splendid try. It was no surprise that Macclesfield earned a bonus point by scoring more than four tries.
A further strength of the side is the powerful impact of players coming off the bench.
Geoff Chan and Simon Street as ever causing mayhem when they entered the conflict. Richard Hogg is always very willing and thrilling whether on as a starter or entering the fray as a substitute.
Steve Mannion at wing forward still played a major part in the offensive and used his experience to prevent Northwich having quick ball.
Bostock was delighted with the result and is already anticipating the next match – with only four left this season, he’s hoping for a clean sweep of four victories.