LATCHFORD Albion were crowned NWML Division One Champions when they defeated Chorley Panthers 38-12 at a packed Victoria Park Arena.
With the title being decided on a points percentage basis, Albion’s total of 83.33 per cent was significantly higher than their rivals. Albion also had the best attack and defence of all teams in the division, and they also managed to complete the highest amount of fixtures, making the achievement a true reflection of their successful season.
The game was over as a contest by halftime, with Albion dominating, and tries from Charlie McCurrie, Alex Davies, Mathew Nash, and Matty Rudd, who also added three conversions, saw the hosts lead 22-0 at halftime.
Chorley, to their credit, registered two quickfire tries to threaten a comeback, but McCurrie’s second try on the hour mark extinguished any hopes the visitors may have had, and shortly after he crossed again to register a hat-trick of tries for the evening. Jack Phillips fittingly ended the scoring, bringing a close to the season for one of Latchford’s most consistent performers, and sealing Albion’s first league title success since 1974.
Coach Martyn Ellis praised the team and added: “ To finish top after such a difficult season, is credit to the squad of players we have assembled at the club. The commitment has been amazing, with consistently high numbers at training starting with pre-season which allowed us to start the season well. Our first game was a tough test travelling to a strong Haydock side, and we put in a massive performance where we scored over 40 points, setting the tone for the season.
Performances since have been consistently strong. We have defeated every single team in the division so I feel we have completely justified our champion’s title.
“I would like to place on record my thanks to all the club officials, from my coaching staff, to the committee members, who have all played their part in making this season such a success.”
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Right, we have been keeping a secret from you all.Over the last couple of weeks, all clubs in our league, have been discussing the outstanding fixtures remaining.
It was mutually agreed that this weekend would be the last round of fixtures, and that the league would be pic.twitter.com/gH64LdD2lO
— Latchford Albion RL (@LatchfordAlbion) October 1, 2021
