Anselmians 19 v 43 Sandbach
A spirited Anselmians where beaten at Stockport RUFC's Memorial Ground by a well drilled Sandbach side.
The Saints have had an outstanding campaign, having won their league to get promoted to North One West and had only lost one game all season, prior to Saturday.
Further having beaten Birkenhead Park, Macclesfield and Lymm on route to the final, they knew it was never going to be easy, despite being two leagues below their opponents. Overall though the final score was a reflection of the game.
Salisbury brothers and John Whittaker ex team mates at Caldy Degsy Salisbury player / coach. Picture: Derek Salisbury Snr
Sandbach started well which put a dent into confidence of the Saints they scored after just two minutes, as prop John Whittaker drove over,following a quick tap penalty They had several more chances but Saints defence held.
Saints winger James Whitehouse went over, to level the score after sustained pressure from the Saints pack.
Sandbach pressed again and a penalty and a converted try allowed them to go in at the break with a 15-5 lead.
Degsy Salisbury in action for Saints against Sandbach. Picture: Derek Salisbury Snr
The start of the second period Sandbach repeated their earlier start and Whittaker grabbed his second, as he once again forced his way over.
Sandbach continued to dominate with two more tries and a comfortable lead .
Saints never folded and player coach Derek Salisbury drove over with Dai Morley drop kicking the conversion.
Saints scored again five minutes later, when speedy winger Whitehouse scored his second, Morley once more converting with a drop kick. Sandbach had the final say with a well worked late try and a deserved victory.
Final score 43 v 19.
My 'man-of-the-match' went to John Whittaker two trys and an excellent performance for Sandbach.
Saints, although disappointed, will look back at this season as a success, a really good cup run and winning the league against some very good higher league clubs and a great start for Degsy Salisbury in his coaching career.
Saints' team. Picture: Derek Salisbury Snr
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