Macclesfield’s push for a league play-off place suffered a setback on the road as they fell to a 36–14 defeat against Tynedale RFC in difficult, gusty conditions.
Despite moments of attacking promise and strong performances in the backline, Macclesfield were ultimately undone by Tynedale’s forward dominance and clinical finishing, particularly during a decisive first half.
The hosts made their intentions clear early on. After just six minutes, Tynedale hooker Ben Haigh powered over from close range to open the scoring, with Jake Rodgers adding the conversion to make it 7–0. Haigh proved a constant threat throughout the opening period, and the Tynedale pack began to exert pressure on the Macclesfield scrum.
The same combination struck again on 19 minutes when Haigh crossed for his second try of the afternoon. Rodgers converted once more and the home side doubled their advantage to 14–0.
Macclesfield showed flashes of attacking quality during the half and created several promising breaks, but at this level missed opportunities are often punished. Tynedale continued to control territory and possession through their powerful forward play, and Haigh completed his hat-trick after 27 minutes, finishing another close-range drive. Rodgers’ third successful conversion stretched the lead to 21–0.
Just before the interval, Rodgers added a penalty to give the hosts a commanding 24–0 advantage at half-time.
With the wind at their backs in the second period, Macclesfield RUFC responded quickly. Within three minutes of the restart, Immanuel Shute crossed out wide following a well-worked move. Harry Oliver added the conversion to reduce the deficit to 24–7 and give the visitors renewed belief.
However, Tynedale quickly reasserted their control. After 52 minutes, Tom Mann’s excellent break created the opportunity for James Telford to score the home side’s bonus-point try, extending the score to 29–7.
Macclesfield refused to fold and continued to show attacking intent, with the threequarters producing some of the visitors’ best rugby of the afternoon. Their persistence paid off on 58 minutes when Harry Oliver broke clear to score, before converting his own try to narrow the gap to 29–14.
While the visitors pushed for further momentum, Tynedale’s defence held firm. Macclesfield spent periods pinned back in their own half, and despite some determined defensive work they were unable to fully regain control of territory.
The decisive moment arrived in the 74th minute when a superb break from Will Miller carved open the Macclesfield defence. With support arriving, the ball was moved wide for Joe Hanning to finish in the corner. Rodgers added the conversion to seal a 36–14 victory for the hosts.
While the result leaves Macclesfield facing a difficult path in the race for the league play-offs, there were positives to take from the contest. The backline showed attacking threat when opportunities arose, while travelling support around 25 strong for the club’s furthest fixture created a strong presence on the touchline.
Director of Rugby Matt Coleridge admitted frustration after the match but remains confident in the squad’s ability to respond in the closing weeks of the season.
“Disappointed with that really,” he said. “I had a good feeling coming here today, and in the first half when we had so many breaks it felt like we were on to something. But this level of rugby is unforgiving – if you don’t take your chances, you risk falling behind on the scoreboard and that’s what happened.”
Coleridge also pointed to discipline and defensive accuracy as key factors.
“Our missed tackle and penalty count was too high which just gave them field position too easily, and they were more clinical. Fair play to Tynedale.”
Attention now turns to the final five fixtures of the season, with the play-off challenge still mathematically possible.
“We haven’t quite found the mojo we had before Christmas yet,” Coleridge added. “But there are five games left and it’s make or break now. We have to find something in ourselves in these last few games. I know it’s there within this squad – it’s just a case of clicking at the right time.”
Macclesfield will look to bounce back quickly as they continue their push to finish the season strongly.
Match Day This Saturday – with Match Day Sponsors Holden & Prescott!
We’re back at home this Saturday 21 March and it’s set to be a big one as Macclesfield RUFC take on Wharfedale RFC.
Our Ladies Lunch is now SOLD OUT 🎉 but there are still a few places available for our Rugby Lunch in the Spiral Lounge.
Rugby Lunch – £15 + match entry
📍 Spiral Lounge
Macclesfield vs Wharfedale
Enjoy a delicious pre-match meal and soak up the atmosphere before kick-off.
🕛 Meet: 12:00 PM
⏰ Kick-off: 3:00 PM
Spaces are limited, so make sure you book your place and join us for a fantastic afternoon of rugby!
BOOK NOW
