strikes at

the death

AN INJURY-TIME lapse condemned Crewe and Nantwich RUFC to a costly 10-8 defeat at Ellesmere Port.

With points a must, concentration was lost five minutes into stoppage time as Crewe failed to find touch with a clearance kick and missed a tackle, allowing the home centre through for a try under the posts.

The conversion was a formality, followed immediately by the final whistle.

It was a cruel end to a highly physical game which Crewe always edged, taking an early lead through Steve Teasdale's penalty followed by wing-forward Andy Richardson's fine try that earned an 8-0 interval advantage.

But they were on the back foot after the break and Ellesmere landed a penalty to reduce their deficit.

As full-time drew closer, Crewe looked comfortable in holding on for victory only to see their hopes dashed at the death.

It's a must win for Crewe as they entertain fellow-strugglers St Mary's Old Boys, this Saturday, KO 3pm.