Macclesfield RUFC were well beaten on the road as an in-form Hull Ionians side delivered a dominant second-half performance to run out deserved 38–7 winners.
Macc made a positive start to the contest and opened the scoring early on. After sustained pressure, Harry Blackwell crossed for a try on eight minutes, with Harry Oliver adding the conversion to give the visitors a 7–0 lead.
However, that bright opening proved to be the high point for Macclesfield. Hull Ionians responded strongly and, from that point on, their defensive organisation and intensity became a defining feature of the match. George Mewburn broke through to score the hosts’ first try, converted by Ben Smith, before further scores from Cam Burnhill and Sam Pocklington saw Hull establish a 21–7 lead by the break.
Macclesfield struggled to build sustained momentum as the game progressed. The Hull defence consistently neutralised attacking threats, while inaccuracies at the lineout proved costly, with possession lost through a number of mis-throws. Although there was some parity at the scrum, Macc were unable to assert their usual dominance in that area.
The second half was largely played in the Macclesfield half, with Hull controlling territory and tempo. Jimmy McDaniel, Sam Pocklington and Charlie Kirk all went close as the home side applied relentless pressure before Malik Holden’s clearance set up Jamal Khalil for Hull’s fourth try midway through the half.
Further scores from James Watts who intercepted to race 90 metres and Joe Makin completed the scoring, with Ben Smith adding the final conversion to seal a comprehensive victory.
There can be no complaints about the final result, with Hull Ionians clearly the better side on the day. They appeared fully “up for the challenge”, while Macclesfield were unable to reach their usual standards across the park.
Despite the defeat, Macclesfield remain second in National League North, though the gap to third-placed Tynedale has narrowed to four points. Attention now quickly turns to next week’s away trip to Billingham.
Director of Rugby – Matt Coleridge
“Not our day. Not good enough against a in form Hull Ionians.
I’ve been saying in the media we have to be better in the big games since Christmas, and I wasn’t kidding.
Think we just were not on it and were outplayed in most facets of the game. Didn’t help not having a couple of regular starters out, but that’s not an excuse, we have good depth and not enough people performed.
We won’t knee-jerk or flip out, it happens, but the key is not to let it happen twice. We’ll be back better for it starting with Billingham next week, who will be well up for it after a good win against Fylde.”
Our next HOME Fixture….
Chairman’s Lunch – Macc vs Scunthorpe
Saturday 28th February 2026
Our next home fixture is a special one, as Macclesfield RUFC host our Chairman’s Lunch ahead of a clash with Scunthorpe, a match where every point could prove vital.
Hosted by our Chairman, the lunch will feature a special guest speaker, John Inverdale, Chairman of National Leagues Rugby and former BBC Sport broadcaster, promising insight, stories, and plenty of banter before kick-off.
Event Details
🕛 Meet: 12:00pm
🏉 Kick-off: 3:00pm
💷 £20 + match entry(Usual member discounts and season ticket benefits apply to entry costs.)
This promises to be a fantastic afternoon of rugby hospitality, great food, and expert insight, followed by a big game at Priory Park. Places are limited, so early booking is advised.
👉 Book now:
https://www.macclesfieldrufc.co.uk/event/chairmans-lunch-macc-v-scunthorpe/
