The forecast rain held off and the game we all expected to be cancelled was on.

Several forwards and a couple of backs were rested which allowed a number of the developing players to enjoy a full game. Stockport had called earlier in the week to say that they may not have a full team but we assured them that we could lend them a couple of players if required. Bendy, Joe and Ike, although not selected, showed good form by turning up to support their mates. Stockport said that they needed some players and well done to Bendy and Ike (Joe was injured) for stepping forward to pull on the Stockport shirt. However, it was a little strange to see the two lads playing when Stockport had two reserves on the side lines? Sandbach started with one reserve.

The wind was clearly going to play a large part in the game ahead, blowing down the hill. Sandbach lost the toss and faced the task of a literal uphill battle. Sandbach utilised a new back line up which gelled immediately to put pressure on Stockport. This early pressure was rewarded when Sandbach scored a fantastic forwards try. Strangely, considering the wind strength and direction, Stockport choose not to kick the ball behind Sandbach, preferring to run the ball back mainly centrally around the breakdown. Sadly this lead to a number of handling errors which allowed Sandbach to gain good field position. From a rare fumble by Sandbach, Stockport had a scrum on their 22. Although they won the ball the central back division of Sandbach pushed the Stockport 3/4's back to the 5m line resulting in a poor kick straight in to the grateful hands of Sandbach and a try was scored under the posts.

Stockport didn't give up and continued to work hard at the breakdown and clawed their way back in to the game. The second half started evenly but Sandbach's kicking trio took advantage of the wind and the hill, turning the Stockport defence time and time again. Sandbach were 31-17 up with 7 minutes to go and took their foot off the gas. Stockport's fliers ran two breakaway tries in which found holes in our defensive line. We need to work on this. Both tries were unconverted and the final score 27-31.

A good solid performance by the developing lads against a well matched opposition. Stockport decided the man of the match was Max - well deserved! We look forward to hosting Stockport later in the season.