In a truly dominant display of power rugby, the Hoppers’ backline tore their opponents apart, with Ben McGarvey leading the charge from the very first minute. The fly half needed just sixty seconds to open the scoring, crossing the whitewash to put his team up 7-0. He was at it again fourteen minutes later, this time thanks to an exceptional offload from Andy Lambert, setting up McGarvey’s second try to extend the lead to 14-5, after an unconverted try by Eccles 3s.

The Hoppers’ momentum was relentless. Ben Whewell joined the try-scoring party in the 24th minute, pushing the score to a commanding 21-5. However, the highlight of the first half came from the most unlikely sources. Following a powerful carry by Paul Street, openside George Noblett appeared as if from nowhere to receive the ball and score an incredible try.

The second half was a continuation of the same story. After Daniele Bertani showcased his pace with a searing 45-yard run for a try, the scoreboard ticked over. A penalty try in the 65th minute added to the Hoppers' tally. To cap off a stunning individual performance, McGarvey secured his hat-trick in the 71st minute, taking the score to 47-19. Michael Kolawole added the final flourish just before the final whistle, with his try in the 79th minute securing an emphatic 64-19 victory for the Hoppers. Credit to Eccles 3s who scored three tries of their own and battled hard for the full 80 minutes.

MOM - Ben McGarvey

Want to get Involved?

Get yourself down to training this Thursday (7-8pm) and make yourself available for our next round of games.

3rd XV vs Liverpool St Helens 2nd XV (away)
4th XV vs Altrincham Kersal 2nd XV (away)