TRAFFORD MV reached the semi-finals of the Plate competition with a narrow 25-22 victory at Ormskirk.

It took a stirring second-half show by the Metroviks to win a hard-fought, often physical game after they went in at half time 15-3 behind.

They sustained a succession of injuries, however, which they will be hoping will have cleared up ahead of a crucial home clash against fellow North Lancashire Division One high-flyers Ashton Under Lyne at MacPherson Park on Saturday.

MV started well when Pat Eccles put them 3-0 ahead with an early penalty.

But injuries quickly forced them into changes which had a detrimental effect on the organisation of the defence.

The hosts capitalised, forcing their way over for three tries to put themselves in a strong position at the interval.

Some straight talking and positional changes at half time paid off instantly for Metroviks with winger James Matthie using his pace to good effect as he sped outside the defence to score wide on the left following a kick behind the cover.

MV's expansive play was causing huge problems for the home defence who were getting stretched time and again.

And wide play again paid dividends when MV punched holes and created space for right winger Johnny Lord to successfully chase down a deep kick.

Eccles converted to level the score at 15-15.

MV were now in control despite several injuries, and further tries from half-back partners Eccles and Stuart Crampton gave them a commanding 25-15 lead.

Ormskirk were not spent, however, and a late rally brought them a converted try to narrow the gap to three points before full-time.

Trafford MV are looking for girls aged between seven and nine to join the club as it looks to form a girls' section initially based on these age groups with the intention of expanding in the future.

Any girls interested in giving the game a try can contact Wilf Dooley on 01942 884542 for further information.