Wilmslow 10

Northwich 8

Thwaites North West 2

Saturday, October 9

WILMSLOW snatched a victory which had never seemed on, given Northwich's all-round superiority.

But, as Northwich have learned from their two away fixtures to date, superiority counts for nothing if it isn't translated into points.

Just as they had at Netherhall, Northwich scored an early try and seemed set to run up a big score. No.8 Dave Briggs did the damage, driving over the line from a ruck five metres out.

It was the backs, though, who looked like taking over when first Dominic Shaw and then fellow centre Ricky Evans and full-back Charles Wood made excellent breaks. Each made good ground but failed to breach the home defences.

Wilmslow were under pressure and gave away a series of penalties. Fly-half Phil Ayres, however, failed with two kickable chances as he had done with the conversion attempt.

Just before half-time, Wilmslow mounted their first serious attack of the game and their forwards drove for the line. Northwich defended well but were penalised six times and there was a feeling of inevitability when Wilmslow eventually crossed the line for a converted try.

The second half started in a similar vein and Wilmslow soon kicked a penalty to extend the lead.

There then followed a melee in which flanker Shaun Boyle was sent off - for retaliation, the referee later confirmed.

Northwich rallied and took control again, pulling back a penalty, but Wilmslow managed to hold on for victory, despite an excellent late solo run from Briggs.

NORTHWICH 2nds beat Wilmslow 34-0 at home.

THIS Saturday, Northwich entertain neighbours Winnington Park in the second round of the NPI Cup (3pm). Admission is by programme, price £1. The 2nds travel to Moore and the 3rds are at home to Moore.

Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.