Clitheroe 2nds XV - Rossendale 3rds XV

In a thrilling rugby union encounter held at Clitheroe Ground, the Clitheroe 2nd XV faced off against Rossendale 3rd XV. Despite the recent heavy rain from Storm Imagine, the pitch held up well, and the sun graced the day with perfect rugby conditions as the game kicked off at 3 PM.

Rossendale got off to an early start, with Scott Fitzpatrick converting a penalty in front of the posts, giving them a 3-0 lead. Clitheroe answered with a try from a lineout in the corner, although the conversion was missed, leaving the score at 5-3. Rhys Dunn showcased his skills, dancing his way through the opposition’s defence to score his first try, but the conversion hit the upright post, making it 5-8 in favour of Rossendale.

Rossendale extended their lead when Matt Jackson capitalised on a mistake by the opposition in front of their posts, falling over the line to score after a knock on at the base of the scrum. Scott Fitzpatrick’s conversion increased the lead to 15-5. In another well-executed backs move, debut player Andy Delaney and Scott Fitzpatrick set up Rhys Dunn for his second try. This was quickly followed by a forwards try, as James Middleton guided a rolling maul to a score by Josh Beeken. The halftime score stood at 27-5 in favor of Rossendale.

The second half began with increased intensity and a hint of friction on the field. Rossendale’s scrum half, Alfie Sumner, received a yellow card for foul play, with a possible case of mistaken identity involving another Rossendale player. However, this setback didn’t deter Rossendale.

They continued to press forward, scoring another try in the corner, this time courtesy of Aaron Heys. With the successful conversion, the score extended to 34-5. Clitheroe’s fullback provided a late flourish, showcasing his elusiveness by scoring their second try, though the conversion was missed, making it 34-10.

As tempers flared, it appeared that more yellow cards might be issued. However, to everyone’s surprise, the referee decided to abandon the game, leading to great confusion. The result was deemed final, with Clitheroe 2nd XV scoring 10 points to Rossendale 3rd XV’s 34.

Rossendale secured a place in the third round of the cup with just two more games to reach the final. The man of the match was initially awarded by the opposition to Rossendale’s stand off Dax Balfour for an outrageous 50/22 kick. However, Balfour overturned the decision, and Rossendale’s man of the match was awarded to Matt Jackson for his outstanding performance.

Rossendale’s next challenge awaits on November 4th against Leigh 3rd XV. New players are encouraged to join the team, with training sessions at Marl Pits on Thursdays at 18:30, and contact can be made through various social media platforms.