Resolute defence was the key to Macclesfield Senior Colts narrow victory over Ormskirk. The Blues held on to their single point advantage until the final whistle, repelling Ormskirk’s close range attacks with some committed tackling and opportune turnovers. Two first half penalties by Ollie Aston put the Colts in the lead after an early try by the visitors. Competition for Man of The Match was fierce, with many candidates coming from the back line. Lloyd Smith Coates got the coaches’ nod after his aggressive performance from the wing.
The Blues started poorly, missing tackles and letting Ormskirk score from their first attack. Gradually, they got back into the game and made some inroads into Ormskirk territory. Rob and Tom won the first penalty, catching the opposition holding on to the ball. Ollie stepped up to reduce the gap to two points. Lloyd chased down a kick well, with Brockie’s support to force the opposition full back into touch. Ormskirk infringed at the next break down, in front of their posts. Ben tapped the penalty quickly to win the extra ten yards, making Ollie’s penalty conversion that bit easier. The remaining 45 minutes remained scoreless. Macc remained pinned in their own half for long periods, keeping their line intact with some strong defence. Sam’s tackle lassoed an attacker to prevent a promising Ormskirk break. All fifteen defended the line bravelyTom L won a penalty, competing for the ball, then stopped the fullback in his tracks with a crunching tackle to follow up on his clearance kick. Dan S turned the ball over at ruck enabling the Blues to take control of the last few minutes of play, until a maul was muscled into touch to end the game.
First Half
Macclesfield Colts:
Penalty: Ollie Aston (15) – 6m & – 24m
Ormskirk: Try- 2m
Team: (1) Ben Hadfield (2) Rob Davies (3) Adam Grindrod (4) Dan Sutton (5) Dan Goltman (6) Sam Black (7) George Hodkinson (8) James Brocklehurst (9) Harry Grant (10) Tom Leicester (11) Sam Bancroft (12) Cameron McKay (13) Josh Hobson (14) Lloyd Smith Coates (15) Ollie Aston (16) Harley Aston (17) Tom Bamberger (18) Sean Hammond (19) Tom Healey (20) Joe Stubbs (21) Jonny Thompson (22) Charlie Davies
