Seconds earn a point

The match started in positive fashion; within five minutes forward play from both set-plays and at the breakdown set the platform to allow some slick handling from the backs to spread it across to the right for winger Jack Braithwaite to score the game's first try.

This propelled Kersal into more positive attacking play, looking to exploit play out wide.

It was Kersal who scored again next as young fly-half Felix Egan carved his way through the Sandbach defence only to be taken down high just short of scoring, resulting in a penalty try as the lead was extended to 12-0. Sandbach scored their first try out wide after the Kersal defence had repelled pressure closer to the centre of the pitch on their line.

The second half got under way and Sandbach were soon level with a try out wide, which sparked Kersal into action. Each side saw yellow cards during the second 40 minutes for deliberate knock-ons, but this did not mean Kersal took their foot off the gas.

Some immense defensive efforts on their own line saw the hosts prevent Sandbach from scoring again.

Kersal themselves were knocking on the door for extended periods in the half but just fell short of getting the score they were after, despite valiant efforts.

There was no joy for the third XV as they lost 6-0 at Stockport.

On Sunday, however, there was a clean sweep of victories for Kersal’s junior and youth section, with the senior colts getting back to winning ways in a 29-5 victory over visitors Newcastle (Staffs) in one of the most commanding performances of the season.

Their tries came from Aaron Antrobus (two), Oli Higson, Harry Backhouse and Tom Gill, and there were two conversions from Max Brookes.

The under-15s secured a 17-5 victory over Stockport at home and the u14s completed a successful Sunday by trouncing local rivals Trafford MV 56-0 away.

After a weekend off, the firsts are back in action on Saturday week when they host Bolton at Stelfox Ave, kick off 2.15pm.