Manch Claim Bragging Rights!

Match Report by Matthew Miles

Manchester have made a habit of starting slowly this season but yesterday’s away trip at Macc was to prove to be the exception as they struck early with two converted tries within the first 16 minutes. The first breach of Macc’s defence proved to be one of the tries of the match as Will Harrison once again displayed the type of footwork that wouldn’t look out of place on the BBC1’s popular celebrity ballroom dance off. This was ‘Strictly’ a one man show though as Will weaved his way through the packed home defence from 25 metres out. Will converted his own try to make it 0-7.

On the 16 minute mark Manchester were in again when a good team move ended with Noah crossing the white wash. Will converted to make it 0-14.

However, the visitors weren’t having it all their own way. Macc responded well and were enjoying long periods of possession in the Manchester’s 22 resulting in a try after 22 minutes. Conversion missed to make it 5-14.

The rest of the first half remained scoreless with Manchester enjoying a 9 point lead at the interval.

Five minutes into the second half Noah was on the scoresheet again. Prolonged pressure gave the Manchester number twelve enough space to break through a couple of tackles to make it 5-19 (conversion missed).

A defiant Macclesfield team weren’t giving up though. Good anticipation by their winger after 48 minutes created the opening as he intercepted a pass to score from fully 70 metres out. 10-19 (conversion missed).

Manchester now looked to pull away. Harry made a superb break from his own half. The ball was fed out wide and, with the Macc defence struggling to scramble, Jack scored in the corner. 10-24 after 57 minutes (conversion missed).

Manchester weren’t done and started to pile on late pressure. The visitor’s pack didn’t appear to be making ground but Tom peeled away to score a good opportunistic try. Will converted to make it 10-31 with 12 minutes remaining. Conversion by Will.

The final try of the game came from the same player who scored the first. Harry again made a great break after ripping the ball amongst a sea of Macclesfield bodies. The ball found it’s way to Will who finished with twinkle-toed aplomb. The Manchester fly half wrapped up the extra points to bring the final score to 10-38.

Another great performance from the Academy side but credit to Macc who pushed the high flying visitors all the way.