Macclesfield Women produced a composed and physical performance on Sunday afternoon to secure a vital 39–27 league victory over second-placed Winnington Park at Priory Park.
Winnington Park opened the scoring with an early unconverted try, but Macclesfield responded well through the work of their forward pack. Strong early carries from Emma Lawton, Julia Ashford and Evie Foster helped Macclesfield gain territory, and sustained pressure was rewarded when front-rower Hannah Worsley powered over to level the scores.
Full team celebrations after Worsley’s first try!
Momentum continued to build for the hosts, with slick ball movement across the back line allowing winger Maria McMaster to finish well out wide. Captain Mel Bramley added the conversion to give Macclesfield a 12–5 lead. Despite another unconverted try for Winnington Park, Macclesfield’s defence — led by Kacie Lawton, Sarah Naden, Liz Jarratt and Katie McCree — stood firm during a demanding period.
A yellow card for the visitors proved costly, and Macclesfield capitalised. Quick hands from Jane Wells and Pip Wyer created space in midfield, allowing Sophie Barnett to break through from outside centre to extend the lead. Winnington Park responded again, but Macclesfield finished the half strongly. A well-judged cross-field kick from Ward to Barnett spread the Winnington Park defence and put the hosts five metres out, and Worsley crossed for her second try to send Macclesfield into half-time with a 22–15 advantage.
Wells looking to manipulate Winnington Park’s defence
Winnington Park came out with intent after the break, scoring a converted try to level the match at 22–22. Macclesfield, however, showed maturity and control in their response. Strong ball carrying from Evie Foster and Emma Lawton laid the platform before hooker Julia Parker powered over for two well-taken tries, restoring Macclesfield’s lead and shifting momentum back in the hosts’ favour.
Behind the forwards, Macclesfield continued to threaten in attack. Lucy Wainwright, Ria Horsley and Tanni Whalley all impressed with their handling skills and pace, stretching the Winnington Park defence and keeping pressure on throughout the second half.
Winnington Park reduced the deficit to 32–27 with an unconverted try, but Macclesfield responded strongly. A powerful break from Annie James put the visitors on the back foot and shifted momentum back in Macclesfield’s favour. From the resulting pressure, scrum-half Siobhan Ardern dotted the ball down over the line for the final score of the match, with vice-captain Bex Ward adding the conversion to seal the 39–27 victory.
Game management throughout the contest was excellent, with Bex Ward, Mel Bramley and Siobhan Ardern controlling tempo and decision-making during key moments.
With Macclesfield starting the day third in the league and Winnington Park second, the result represents an important and well-earned win as Macclesfield continue their push at the top end of the table.
Your Macclesfield Side in full smiles after a strong performance
