ALTRINCHAM Kersal's seconds secured a 15-0 victory at New Brighton despite a much-depleted squad.

With new players gelling into the squad, namely fly-half Matt Tully, Simon Betts and student Dale Maxwell, Kersal had to play smart rugby in the first half in both set-piece and open play.

After stalemate first half, an early penalty opportunity in the second half allowed Jordan Roberts to kick Kersal 3-0 ahead.

A try from Matt Tully increased their lead with 10 minutes to go and they did not look back from there.

A late converted try cemented another hard-fought win, which sees them go seven points clear at the top of Division Two South ahead of a break from league action for a home cup clash against Whitchurch seconds.

It was not such a good day for Kersal's first XV who suffered a shattering 20-0 home defeat against Rochdale.

There was also a home defeat for the thirds who lost 34-21 to Littleborough, while the ladies lost 37-5 at Vagabonds ladies in the Isle of Man.

It was a better day for the club on Sunday as Kersal's under-14s battled hard at home to beat Winnington Park 24-19.