Ellesmere Port 15 Eagle 5.

EAGLE struggled on a heavy pitch at Ellesmere Port in rugby union's Euromanx South Lancashire/Cheshire Three on Saturday.

Ellesmere Port appeared to choose to play on the wet pitch rather than a drier one also available and adapted better to the conditions.

Eagle, who host St Edwards Old Boys on Saturday at 2.15pm, did lead 5-0 at half time thanks to Jack Banczyk's try.

But Ellesmere Port used their strength and size to score two tries and add a penalty after the interval.

Eagle 2nd 19 Wirral 3rd 22.

EAGLE'S seconds came within a whisker of completing a fantastic win over the promotion-chasing Wirral fourth team in Miller Homes League Division Four West.

Wirral surged ahead with a penalty and a converted try but speedster Will McAllister responded with a try for Eagle soon afterwards.

The visitors then scored a penalty try but Eagle hit back again as Bob Astley crossed for a try that was converted by man of the match Mike Whelan.

An impressive converted effort from Andy Friery then put Eagle four points in front but in the dying seconds of the game Wirral grabbed victory with a try from a speculative kick.

Eagle's second team travel to Northwich's thirds on Saturday at 2.15pm.