Manchester 17 Sale FC 38 (From Messenger Newspapers)

Manchester 17 Sale FC 38

12:14pm Monday 3rd September 2012 in Trafford Sport

SALE’S first game in North 1 West was a lack-lustre performance but nevertheless gained them a valuable bonus point win.

Sale took the lead with a try from Andy Rowley after only two minutes, but it took until the midway point of the half to double the lead with a try from Giles Dugdale. He added a second on the half hour and with Rowley converting, the visitors’ led 17-0 at the break.

Despite the margin Sale’s handling and ball retention was poor and Manchester bounced back with tries from Day and Rooney and two conversions from McCartney to reduce the Sale advantage to just three points.

Nathan Bailey came on to make his first start for Sale and within minutes scored a converted try before Manchester responded with a penalty.

Sale put the pressure on in the final 10 minutes and were rewarded with a penalty try and a second from Bailey, with Rowley converting both to secure the win.

This Saturday, Sale travel to the Wirral to play Anselmians, kick off 3pm.