Fourths cut loose on trip to Marple

MARPLE 3S.................. 0 MACCLESFIELD 4S.. 46

MACCLESFIELD 4s travelled to Marple on a clear, crisp winter’s Saturday to face off against Marple 3s.

Marple had suffered a heavy defeat at Priory Park earlier in the season, and have struggled to notch up wins against other teams throughout the season, most notably their own 2s who have beaten them twice.

But huge respect must be given to Marple 3s, who turn up each week and offer up a good game at this level, seeing it though to the final whistle.

They are an accommodating and friendly bunch of lads who are committed to rugby and deserve recognition for that.

Macc arrived strong, with several reserves, and all keen for a run-out. Focus of the pre match talk was on immediate impact, discipline and support. All three were implemented and running was strong at a good Marple defence.

Equally, Marple ran well with the ball and worked through set pieces effectively. The home side came close to the white line a couple of times with breakthrough runs and big forward play, but it was not to be.

Macc’s defence ensured any flashes were quickly extinguished.

The strong forwards play was largely unrivalled, once moving, securing good phase ball to the backs.

Paul Smith provided good linkage at 9, controlling the side well and allowing the backs to feed parasitically off the forwards’ hard work.

A special mention should be given to the referee who was a calm, collected and fair controller of the game, allowing us to enjoy a good match. Much welcomed after the last couple of weeks.

Now to carry the excellent form into next week when we face Burnage 3s away in the quarter finals of the cup