Though there was no 1st XV game for Sandbach on Saturday, there was still plenty going on at Bradwall Road during the week. Firstly, Josh Longson had his hearing following his two yellow cards and resulting dismissal the previous weekend, with the County Disciplinary Panel rescinding the first card, following a review of the match video. The panel rightly adjudging that no act of foul play took place by the player and so the utility forward is available to play again immediately. Meanwhile Sandbach were also delighted to welcome back Monty Weatherby over the weekend, following his trial at Jersey Reds. The big prop is scheduled to return for a friendly game for the Championship outfit in March but should otherwise be available for Sandbach to the end of the season. No doubt Monty will have benefited greatly from the experience and will have to wait to see if they have been impressed enough for the channel island based professional Tier 2 outfit, to offer him a full-time contract.

Meanwhile Sandbach Saxons faced Fylde Hawks on Saturday and went down narrowly 38 v 39 despite a second half comeback, as they took advantage of the visitor’s ill-discipline and three yellow cards. In the end it wasn’t quite enough with the size and power of the Fylde outfit being just too much, with a late penalty sealing it for them. Certainly, there was plenty of food for thought for the coaching team, with strong performances particularly at full back from Jack Williams and a determined effort from the back row of Dan Williams, James Finucane and Aaron Briscall. There was no joy also for the Stormers who lost their semi final cup tie 41 v 12 away in Warrington to the Eagle 1st XV.