Macclesfied 2nd XV 22 Hoppers 2nd XV 7
The second team lost for the first team since January at a windy and muddy Priory Lane. In a run which has seen them beat all comers Hoppers were eventually vanquished by old nemesis’ Macclesfield.
The Lions were the last team to overcome Young’s men and ultimately it was their greater experience and ability to deal with the adverse conditions which proved decisive. Hoppers have been extremely fortunate with injuries but Saturday proved a game too far as Young’s decimated squad couldn’t quite overcome a fifteen point half time deficit.
Whilst Ollie Yates scored a converted second half try Hoppers were unable to break the home side’s resistance. Despite having a favourable wind the defending champion’s defence held out and they rubbed salt into Hoppers’ wounds by scoring a third try at the death.
Next week Preston host old foes Sedgley Tigers at the Green. Hoppers have beaten the men from Whitefield in their last six meetings and know that victory is vital, even at this early stage, to keep their title aspirations alive. Young’s men shall use this week to regroup and welcome some key players back to the fold.
The Tigers meanwhile enjoyed a resounding victory over Caldy at the weekend so will travel up the M61 full of optimism. In other results Stockport hammered Fylde Hawks and sit at the top with Macclesfield.
@Jebbster1975 @JY75
