Macclesfield returned to winning ways in emphatic fashion with a 52–31 victory over Wharfedale at Priory Park, delighting a packed Ladies Day crowd in the spring sunshine.
After last week’s disappointing defeat away at Tynedale, Macc responded with intent, running in eight tries in an entertaining and, at times, chaotic contest. However, despite the convincing score line, the performance was not without its frustrations, particularly around discipline, with the hosts again conceding a high penalty count.
Macc made a bright start and opened the scoring early on when Ollie Longmore finished a flowing team move from deep, converted by Harry Oliver. Wharfedale responded through William Bell on 21 minutes, but that seemed to spark the hosts into life.
Tries from Toby Talbot and Harry Hughes in quick succession both converted by Ciaran Shone gave Macclesfield control of the first half. Wharfedale stayed in touch with a well-taken score from Bradley Viner just before the break, narrowing the gap to 21–12 at half-time.
The visitors carried that momentum into the second half and struck again shortly after the restart through Tom Beresford, cutting the deficit to just two points and putting Macc under real pressure.
To their credit, Macclesfield responded superbly. Samson Shute crossed to settle nerves, before further tries from Ben Blackburn and a second from Hughes extended the lead. With Macc now playing with greater fluency and tempo, Shute added two more tries to complete his hat-trick, while Shone’s reliable boot kept the scoreboard ticking.
Wharfedale continued to battle and secured a bonus point with late tries from Oliver Cicognini and Viner, but the result was long since beyond doubt as Macc closed out a 52–31 win.
Shone finished with five conversions in what Director of Rugby Matt Coleridge described as his best performance in a Macclesfield shirt, while 18-year-old Austin “Ozzy” Keogh impressed and received star man award. Sam Adu also produced an outstanding display and was deservedly named Player of the Match by sponsors Holden and Prescott.
Speaking after the match, Coleridge said:
“The most important thing we could do this week was win to rebuild confidence after a tough road trip, and we did that.
“I was happy with our build-up play and our ability to get into the opposition 22, but we could have been more clinical. At times we invited pressure through mistakes, but we’re a young team and still learning.
“The crowd was sensational today on Ladies Day, the support all season has been tremendous.
“Next week away at Sheffield is a big one, make or break but we’ll go there as underdogs and play with freedom.”
Overall, this was a strong response from Macclesfield clinical in attack, resilient under pressure, and back to winning ways at a key stage of the season.
🏉 LAST HOME GAME OF THE SEASON – DON’T MISS OUT! 🏉
Saturday 18th April 2026
Macclesfield vs Otley
Join us for a special end-of-season occasion as Macc take to the field at Priory Park for the final time this campaign!
Match Day Sponsor: Search & More
Location: The Priory Suite & Spiral Lounge
This one is extra special… past meets present as former Macc greats return to share memories, laughter, and camaraderie ahead of a fixture steeped in history and rivalry.
Meet: 12 PM
Kick-off: 3 PM
⚠️ Please note: The Priory Suite is now fully booked, but we still have availability in the Spiral Lounge – secure your place today!
