ALTRINCHAM Kersal travelled to Southport for the first match of the New Year, and came away with a 29-28 win in Lancs/Cheshire Division One.

There was some ferocious defensive and attacking play from both sides in a physical match between two teams looking to run the ball.

Southport took an early lead with a penalty and eventually netted 18 of their 28 points from penalties. 

Altrincham countered with three tries to leave the score 19-15 at half time.

Kersal scored an early try in the second half, which was followed by alternate tries for both sides to give the visitors the victory and another bonus point to remain top of the table.

This weekend they host Fleetwood at Stelfox Avenue, kick off 2.15pm.

The seconds had contrasting fortunes, going down 33-5 at home against Sedgley Park thirds.

Sunday saw some great rugby from the club's senior colts and under-14s, who both had away fixtures.

The senior colts saw their 100-per-cent run of wins halted with a 12-12 draw against a very strong Heaton Moor, who snatched the draw with the last kick of the match.

Meanwhile, the u14s secured a well-deserved and hard-fought 52-34 victory at Macclesfield.