CONGLETON 1st XV went down 27-7 at Runcorn on Saturday in a hard-fought league clash.

Runcorn took the lead on four minutes when their full back burst through under the posts for a converted try after some poor lineout work by Congleton.

Jamie Woodman saw his penalty kick hit the post, but Congleton levelled the match in the 15th minute.

Scrum half Richard Burkard weaved through the Runcorn defence for a try converted by Woodman.

Runcorn regained the lead five minutes later with an unconverted try, and stretched their advantage to 17-7 with a third touchdown on 25 minutes.

Congleton rallied once again with a move which almost led to a try, Woodman being held up on the line as he powered through.

Congleton defended well for most of the second half, but conceded two late tries.

The first came with only a few minutes to go following a push over scrum, and Runcorn landed their final try a minute later.

A St Patrick's night evening is being held at the Congleton clubhouse tonight in aid of Comic Relief.