Sandbach’s five-game winning streak ended on Saturday with defeat at the hands of North Ribblesdale. The North Yorkshire side have only lost one home league game in two seasons, so Saturday was always going to be a challenge for the visitors.

The experienced Jack Seddon returned to the starting XV alongside Tom Namguads, with club captain Max Beadle offering support from the bench. Sandbach also named seven players on the team sheet who have now started every league game this season, including 1st XV captain Laurie Essenhigh, George Cole, Matt Davies, Harry Leese, Elliot Morris, Matt Randle and Ed Vitta. There are several players on eight appearances who were also starting.

With the game underway, it was a stop-and-start match, often due to the referee’s whistle. North Ribblesdale were leading with a converted try after ten minutes but when the hosts had two players in the sin bin, Sandbach levelled the scores. Outside centre Cole went under the posts for his sixth try of the season, which was converted by winger Randle. The teams went in at half-time all square.

In the second half, Sandbach couldn’t capitalise further and despite the numerical advantage, North Ribblesdale took the lead once more. After the conversion, the home side led 14-7 and were back to fifteen players at the restart.

North Ribblesdale kicked two penalties to increase their lead and despite a late attacking onslaught, Sandbach were unable to add to their points tally and claim a losing bonus point but the commitment from the players couldn’t be faulted. The match ended 20-7. Sandbach hold on to the top spot despite the loss and North Ribblesdale remain in third.

Elsewhere on Saturday, Sandbach 2nd XV took on St Edward’s O.B at Bradwall Road and won 41-12 in a dominant display. Player of the match was awarded to Chris Jackson.

Sandbach 3rd XV, also at home, lost 19-41 in a high-energy clash against Marple. The player of the match award went jointly to Gaz Caen and Andy Pipe.

On Saturday, Sandbach’s 1st XV make the short trip to Northwich to face local rivals Winnington Park. Sandbach claimed two big wins against Park last season and will be determined to get back to winning ways but shouldn’t expect an easy ride. Winnington Park have won six times this season, which includes wins against both North Ribblesdale and neighbours Northwich, two teams that have beaten Sandbach this campaign. With more than just bragging rights to play for, expect another fierce and competitive clash.

Next match:
Winnington Park 1st XV Vs Sandbach 1st XV
Saturday 29th November
Burrows Hill, Northwich