SALE FC moved to within a point of top spot in the National Three North.

The local lads secured a victory in difficult conditions on a cold and snowy afternoon at Morley.

And with leaders Sandal only drawing, Sale have narrowed the gap to just one point behind the Wakefield Club.

Intermittent snow turned more permanent in the first half making running and passing difficult.

Exchanges of kicks were the norm in the opening minutes to gain territory and the ploy worked for the hosts when Sale were penalised and Kenny Hirst-Sewell put Morley in front with a well-struck penalty.

Both sides worked hard to gain an advantage, but all too often freezing fingers and a slippy surface contrived to prevent fluent rugby.

It was not until the 34th minute that Sale gained a key advantage.

A deft chip over the Morley defence by Sale captain Liam McGovern saw Chris Mayor swoop to kick ahead three times on the snow-bound surface before touching down behind the posts, with McGovern adding the conversion for a 7-3 Sale lead at half time.

The second half was equally difficult for both sides although Sale were now having more of the game. Just short of the hour Morley transgressed once more and McGovern extended Sale’s lead with a penalty.

The game ebbed and flowed but a second penalty from the Sale captain ensured Morley needed at least two scores the get something from the match.

Sale worked hard to retain possession in the closing stages and a third penalty with just seconds remaining gave them a satisfactory win.