Match photos can be downloaded Thank you Andy Mitchell for the photos.
Photos
Sandbach were the victors on Saturday thanks to another strong team effort against Widnes. A hat-trick from winger Elliot Morris, two tries from scrum-half Laurie Essenhigh and a player of the match performance from fly-half Henry Mitchell was more than enough to defeat their hosts and keep the Bach at the top of the table.
Sandbach had a rest week last weekend, leaving their closest league rivals, Firwood Waterloo and Bowdon, to catch up on postponed fixtures. Both teams came away with big scoring wins and closed the gap at the top of the table.
The impressive youngster George Perkins retained his place in Sandbach’s starting lineup. Perkins scored two tries and was player of the match when he made his home 1st XV debut against Waterloo last month. The Bach’s familiar but lethal backline remained intact, with Morris, fellow winger Matt Randle and full-back Harry Leese looking to attack at every opportunity.Sandbach were 12-0 after 11 minutes, putting themselves in a very comfortable position early on. Essenhigh scored the opening try from a catch and drive, which was quickly followed up with a try from Perkins. Leese furthered the lead with a score from a quickt ap penalty and at the end of the first half the Bach went in leading 19-0.
A second half hat-trick from Morris, a penalty try and Essenhigh’s second score stretched the lead further. Morris ran half the length of the field to secure his third in the final minute. He is on electric form this season and has now scored thirty tries duringthis campaign, including six hat-tricks.
Widnes got some consolation points before the end with a try for their winger Lewis George, but Sandbach were too much to handle and dominated in an impressive 50-7 victory.
Sandbach have another rest weekend, whilst their league rivals continue to play catchup, and will play Eccles the following week. When the two teams met in November, it was a close and scrappy encounter, with the Bach coming away 41-31 winners. This time the home crowd will be out in force as Sandbach look to extend their 2025 unbeaten run.
Sandbach 2nd XV
The 2nd XV continued their winning form with a 50-6 victory over Aldwinians RUFC at Bradwall Road. Dylan Husbands made an immediate impact on his senior rugby debut, sharing player of the match honours with the ever-impressive Under 19 Oli Jones.
Sandbach 3rd XV
The 3rd XV were also at home and battled hard against neighbours Congleton, but it wasn’t enough as they lost 10-62. Ryan Hollinshead put in a standout shift, earning player of the match recognition.
Sandbach Face Burnage in the Papa John’s Men’s Community Cup
Sandbach 1st XV have been drawn against Burnage in the first round of the Papa John's Community Cup Regional Plate competition. The match will take place on Saturday 12th April at Bradwall Road, one week after the league campaign concludes.
Sandbach have always entered and competed in this cup since its introduction a few years ago with varied success. Competition rules state all clubs can use squads of up to 22 players, which is a great way to reward those players who have contributed to theleague season, whilst also preparing for the 25/26 league campaign. This is a straight knockout fixture, which will certainly add excitement to the occasion and the Bach will be aiming to end their season on a high. The winner of this game will then play Widnes on Saturday 26th April.
Next match:
Sandbach 1st XV Vs Eccles 1st XV
Saturday 15th February – Kick-off 2.15pm
Bradwall Road, Sandbach