TRAFFORD MV's losing run continued with a 33-22 home defeat to De La Salle in the North Lancs/Cumbria Division last Saturday.

Both teams opened in lively fashion and the visitors looked to get the better of some early exchanges, forcing two penalty attempts which both failed to hit the target.

MV had a new look to the back-line with stand-off Stuart Crampton missing and centre John Gillam returning from a long-term injury and it was Gillam who made the first telling break of the game as he burst through the De La Salle defence before off-loading to supporting centre Zac Crabb who ran in behind the posts. Pat Eccles converted for MV to go 7-0 in front.

However, the Salford side hit back almost immediately. They kept the ball alive and forced play through the phases down the left flank for a score by their winger which was converted by a good kick to level at 7-7 at half time.

The second half saw a swift change in fortunes as De La Salle came at MV strongly scoring a quick try under the posts, converted easily, and then struck again to make it 21-7.

Pat Eccles steadied the ship with a well-struck penalty then youngster Greg Warren swooped on a long pass to intercept on the halfway line and race in from long range to make it 26-15.

Gillam once again broke through only to be tackled just short of the line but he rolled over and got the touchdown and the conversion from Eccles brought MV right back in it.

As the full time whistle approached, De La Salle struck from a five-metre scrum when a good drive saw a crushing last-minute try easily converted for a deserved win for the visitors.

This was a missed opportunity for MV who probably had their best chance of beating De La Salle for a number of seasons. MV are looking for new recruits to their first XV squad to add strength as they enter the business end of the season.

Anyone interested should contact captain Andy Quigley on 07791 545445.