Blackburn 21 v Rossendale 26

In the second game it appeared that Blackburn had strengthened their side and tightened up their scrum and with the Rossendale lads tiring this was going to be a test of strength and commitment.
But in true Rossendale fashion they attack and from three great phases of rugby saw Shaun Smallridge crash through for a great well deserved try which was converted by Oliver Molloy.
With their tails up Rossendale attacked with every opportunity through Natsaha Smallridge, Shaun Smallridge, Joe Simpson and Derek Bulling. These attacks were only stopped by a strong defence and most other sides would have conceded points with the strength of these attacks.
From a neatly stolen ball at the base of the Blackburn scrum by George Allen managed to send Fly Half Will Gledhill on a jinking run to score in the corner also converted by Oliver Molloy.
From the resulting kick off the ball was reclaimed by Rossendale and through some good forward drive sent Prop Joe Simpson on a run with players left scattered over the pitch from this aggressive running lead to a great individual try.
Blackburn were never going to give up the good record that they have without a fight and through some poor Rossendale tackling managed to break through to score a converted try to leave it 7 – 19 at half time.
The second half started with Blackburn putting the pressure on and eventually scoring a well worked converted try.
Rossendale were now tiring and with the big Blackburn squad replacing players that this second half uphill against the wind was going to be a stern test of character.
Another great driven ball by the Rossendale pack to play deep into the Blackburn half and eventually Shaun Smallridge peeled off a maul to score his second try of the game converted by Oliver Molloy. With the score at 14-26 the last few minutes were going to be nail biting this was made slightly worse when against the run of play the Blackburn winger went over in the corner, this try was converted to leave the score 21-26. Rossendale can be really proud of results like these, against teams like Blackburn who have been together for a few years and with such big squads is a sign of the massive improvement that has been made. It should also give us confidence in playing any of the county’s top sides.
Man of the Match Natasha Smallridge for her outstanding contribution to the game, strong tackling and aggressive running.
Most Improved player again went to Ben Flanagan who has now won this award twice in three games. Just a little more effort Ben and the Man of the match award could come your way.
But besides these awards the whole team want to be proud of themselves for a great all round display.