Concerted effort sees off younger rivals

THE mighty Macc 4s travelled to Didsbury to take on Toc H 3s for the first game of 2020.

Macclesfield arrived confident in spirit, but heavy in heart learning just that morning of the sudden death of former team mate Zane Gills.

An accommodating and respectful Toc H shared a minute’s silence before the game.

Upon the whistle it was clear that Toc H were up for a win, keen to right their loss at Priory Park earlier in the season, with a young and energetic third team. Showing good rugby skill and solid teamwork the opposition were quick to the breakdown and equally quick in recycling the ball. Macc, however, answered the call with a very experienced team and unrivalled aggression.

The Fourth Team pack consisted of a solid front row, in: Jason, Rufus and the ever sturdy captain Boz; backed up by Craig and Jack at second row. Further strength was added by Matt, Rob and

Billy, visitors from Lostock Rugby Club, thanks to Michael’s recruitment skills.

As ever, the strength and experience of the forwards, prevailed, and, once up and running, the will and aggression was unmatched by Toc H.

Macc spent most of the first half in Toc’s 25 running at a good defence. Finally a line-out on the 5 set up Paul Smith for a try in the corner. Macc continued to wear the home side down conceding only a converted penalty. Inevitably as pressure built, tempers flared, which saw Macc down to 14 players.

Solid and skilful as ever, our backs carried ball well, made excellent runs and were fully committed to tackling. Both Paul and Nick Smith provided a sturdy 9/10 channel, plus additional vocal support throughout. Michael Moore, Lawrence (Lostock temp), Jay and Ryan worked diligently and made excellent runs to ensure dominance across the field.

The second half saw the triumphant return of

Steve Mannion and Andy Leigh to the forwards, both exceptional ‘oldheads’ and backed up by the ever committed Troy. All 3 brought fresh-legs and decades of rugby skill to the field.

Macc upped the tempo to secure second half dominance, and despite some good defence by Toc H, our solid scrum and rolling forwards’ ball allowed Manny to carry the ball over the line. Toc returned in force and broke through the Macc defence to score and ultimately convert. Macc, ever defiant at such a thing, came back strong, worked well together, fought hard and ultimately, thanks to Matt (Lostock), put two more tries on the score-sheet.

In summary; everyone on the pitch gave their all and dominated a younger and fitter home team. There are a lot of positives to take into next week, when we entertain Hope Valley 1st team.