Solid win at home for 2nd placed 2nds

The visitors were hampered by an injury crisis and the inevitable call up to the first team that hampers consistency in selection for 2nd teams. The hosts had almost a full strength team and were able to supplement the visitors with Mitch who had an excellent game.

The game kicked off and Clitheroe managed to start playing the way they have all season, by getting the ball out early to the backs who saw plenty of ball on a dry day for once.

Clitheroe had to ensure first that the pack won plenty of ball. Chorley are tough opponents and they fought and competed for every ball and the hosts had to battle hard to gain the platform to set the game plan in action.

Edmondson returning from injury had a very solid game as did M Thornber and Captain Thornber was everywhere. The Procter dynasty with Jake, Craig and Procter senior were also dominant in all they did and the family theme was very evident this week as it has all season.

Clitheroe opened the scoring and a number of tries followed with the excellent Keogh in good form with the boot. Richard Thornber finished an excellent move with a great finish under the posts and the youngster is showing some promise!

The scoreboard ticked over with Doherty at fly half dictating the game. Hough scored a superb try under the posts and Clitheroe had amassed a good lead at half time.

The second half kicked off and Chorley tore into the hosts. Chorley were superbly led by skipper Riley, who had a great game and Dawson also was excellent. Chorley got on the scoreboard with a well worked try and Clitheroe had to work hard to get back I to their rhythm.

Eventually the tries came with Stewart showing his pace with some great
finishes. Craig Procter was also superb finishing with 5 tries and this was a good team performance by all.

Special mention must go to the classy Sturgess and Gretton, Shread and Caunce were also solid. Man of the match also deservedly went to Hough for his direct running and he always looked likely to score!

Chorley besieged the hosts line in the last 5 minutes and had players held up over the line on 3 occasions. That speaks volumes for the spirit and commitment of the visitors and they were a credit to their club. Clitheroe know that a very tough return fixture awaits.

Chorley skipper Riley deservedly was the visitors man of the match (despite being lucky in his encounters with the author!)

Clitheroe are away at Bolton next week as they push towards promotion.