Macclesfield produced one of their most complete performances of the season to overcome promotion rivals Darlington Mowden Park in difficult, wet conditions at Priory Park. In a clash between second and third, Macc set the tone from the opening minutes and dominated for the majority of the contest, securing a bonus-point victory and passing 500 league points for the season in the process the first National League club to do so.
Fast Start in Greasy Conditions
Handling was always going to be a challenge in the rain, but Macclesfield adapted superbly with a strong kicking game that pinned DMP back and forced errors. That approach paid off after just two minutes when captain James Oliver chased down a well-placed kick from Shone to touch down. Brother Harry Oliver converted for 7–0.
Macc then asserted control through the scrum and lineout, starving the visitors of meaningful possession. Pressure turned into points on 11 minutes when Andy Darlington powered over from close range, again converted by H. Oliver.
DMP briefly responded through Checksfield in the corner, but it was only a momentary break in Macclesfield’s momentum. Sustained pressure saw Dan Leake finish another close-range effort on 26 minutes before a dominant scrum marched DMP backwards for a penalty try and the bonus point before the break. The home side went in deservedly 28–5 ahead.
Controlled Second Half Display
The deteriorating conditions made continuity difficult after the restart, but Macc continued to control territory and tempo. A well-struck penalty from Harry Oliver pushed the lead to 31–5 as Macclesfield kept their opponents at arm’s length.
DMP crossed through Bent on 64 minutes but never threatened a meaningful comeback. With ten minutes to play, Harry Oliver broke through the line to score and convert his own try, sealing the result at 38–12.
A late surge from the visitors, including a brace from Uzokwe, earned them a losing bonus point a slight frustration for the hosts after 75 minutes of superb defensive work but it did nothing to dent the overall dominance of Macclesfield’s performance.
Coaches’ Comments
Director of Rugby Matt Coleridge praised the discipline and control shown by his side:
“The way the lads kept DMP at bay for 75 minutes was brilliant. The defence was sensational and every time it looked like Park were going to do something, we snuffed it out.
I know it sounds strange after a win like that, but we’re a bit disappointed not to keep them out late on. It shows how far we’ve come that we’re critiquing wins over teams above us.
With all due respect to Darlington, it was a comprehensive win. But Otley away next week is unforgiving we’ll need to be even better.”
Head Coach Rhys Davies emphasised the progress shown in defence:
“Elements of that were outstanding today. We’ve spoken a lot about not leaking tries and we did that for 75 minutes. To be talking about a five-minute lapse instead of a 20-minute one is a real step forward.”
POM: Dan Leake
A constant threat with ball in hand and decisive in his finish for Macc’s third try.
Macclesfield Scorers
Tries: J. Oliver (2), Darlington, Leake, Penalty Try, H. Oliver
Conversions: H. Oliver (3, 12, 27, 71)
Penalties: H. Oliver (56)
Yellow Cards: J. Oliver (77), Harding (78)
DMP Scorers
Tries: Checksfield, Bent, Uzokwe (2)
Conversions: Ward (2)
Yellow Cards: Dyer (76)
Referee: Daniel Woods
A clinical and powerful performance sees Macclesfield tighten their grip on the top end of the table, confidence will be high heading into next weekend’s tough trip to Otley.
Next Home Game: Macclesfield vs Rossendale – 20th December
We’re back at Priory Park on Friday 20th December as we host Rossendale in our final home fixture before Christmas.
Our pre-match lunch is now SOLD OUT, and we thank everyone for their fantastic support.
For those still joining us on the day, the Sin Bin will be open pre-match for all walk-in guests, the perfect place to enjoy a drink and build the atmosphere ahead of kick-off.
The upstairs bars will then open to everyone from 3:00pm, when the match gets underway.
We look forward to another great afternoon at Priory Park. See you there!
