Latchford played their part in a competitive game

LATCHFORD Albion made the trip to current NWML premier division champions Orrell St James and played their part in a competitive game.
But they came away empty handed despite the result remaining in doubt until well into the second half.
The hosts opened the scoring on 10 minutes with a converted try, but Albion quickly responded, prop forward Jack Sherratt using all his strength to barge his way over near the posts and Rob Marsh converting.
Ill discipline crept into Albion’s game, and a set restart, quickly followed by a last tackle penalty gave the hosts the field position they needed to take full advantage and regain the lead.
Again Albion quickly responded, this time debutant Rob Pritchard crossing as he collected Matty Ellis’ neat offload, again Marsh converting.
Shortly before half time a well worked Orrell try saw them end the first half in front on 18-12.
As in the the first half it was the hosts who started strongly after the break and an early converted try gave them a two score lead.
Credit to Albion who kept their heads up and quickly reduced the deficit when Dec Rourke spotted a gap in the oncoming defence and powered his way over, Marsh converted again.
At this point the game was in the balance at 24-18 and the next try was to be crucial.
Unfortunately for Latchford it was the hosts who came up with the score, securing the victory but coach Martyn Ellis was rightly pleased with his side’s effort.
He said: “We had a really good go toda. On another day the little things could have gone our way and we would have come back with the win, but there were so many positive to take from the game which will bode us well during the season. “
This Saturday sees Latchford’s opening home fixture of the league campaign when they host Shevington Sharks at the ASICS Victoria Park Arena, kick off 2.30pm.