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Sandbach maintain there unbeaten run despite losing there Captain through a shoulder injury. Dan watched the match from the sidelines while John Pemberton took on the role as captain
This game was much tighter than the score line suggests, especially in the first half. Trafford had lots of possession in the early stages but were unable to break down the defensive cohesion that Sandbach have employed this season. Trafford's strong running centre was clearly there main point of attack but he was well marshalled in the first half by Rees, Escourt & Co. Sandbach were awarded a penalty for an infringement at the ruck and Greenhalgh stepped up to make the scores 3 nil in Sandbach's favour.
Plan A was not working for Trafford so they turned to plan B; which seemed to be an aerial bombardment on Sandbach fullback Freddie Oakey. Oakey confidently dealt with everything that was kicked in his direction and was unlucky not to score from one of his elusive counter attacking runs. Quick hands from the Sandbach ruck created an opening just over halfway for Russ Dymond who finished well in the corner. The conversion was missed by Greenhalgh. 8 - 0.
The Sandbach pack was dominant for the majority of the game notably in the scrums. The lineout's were also well marshalled by the experienced Colin Wyatt who is back in the 2nds enjoying his rugby. The build up to Sandbachs 2nd try of the game was impressive. A good drive from John Pemberton was followed up by several good phases of play by Sandbach. This created a huge overlap on the blindside. Winger for the day Nick Bolton touched the ball down to finish off a good team try. Chris G missed again.
13 to Nil Halftime
The visitors opened the scoring in the 2nd half with a penalty. Sandbach really lifted there game and were rewarded with a further 4 tries. Will Rees scored two well worked tries to go over untouched on both occasions. Both of Rees tries looked good from the sidelines and the reaction from the home support reflected this. Chris G and Mike Huss both finished well in opposite corners. Chris G managed to kick 2 out of 6 on what proved to be a difficult day with the boot. He still managed to score 12 points on the day and I'm sure he will be forgiven for his 'off day' with the boot.
Sandbach's second half display was overall impressive but they will be disappointed that they conceded a try due to several missed tackles on the big Trafford centre. This was converted to take Trafford's total for the day to 10 points.
Final Score: Sandbach 37 Trafford MV 10
MOM: Tom Blackwood had his best game so far as did Colin Wyatt. Russ Dymond also played out of his skin but this week its going to Will Rees. Sandbachs 'play anywhere' utility back had a great game at inside centre; set up a try, defended well and also scored a brace.
Tries: Dymond, Bolton, Rees x 2, Huss, Greenhalgh
Pens: Greenhalgh
Cons: Greenhalgh x 2
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