DMPRFC 6 v STOCKPORT RFC 8

Although the score of 6 – 8 suggests a dour encounter, nothing could be further from the truth, as a decent crowd enjoyed an entertaining game, where the first half was dominated by the visitors and where the home side rallied late on and were in with a shout at the end.

Stockport RC arrived in confident mood and started the game like a house on fire, with little regard for the home advantage of their opposition.

Park just could not get any possession and defended for long periods, as Stockport went about their business with their big forwards battering away around the fringes.

They were rewarded early on with an easy penalty, but it wasn’t until well into the first half that they cemented their first half dominance. This was because of a lot of wasted opportunities on their part and also some degree of resilience by the home side, who repelled a lot of attacks through hard work in defence.

When it came, a missed midfield tackle after a break from the base of the scrum saw the ball shipped out to the right winger who touched down in the corner.

No further trouble to the scoreboard before oranges, however there was time for each side to be reduced to 14 men, as first the visiting flanker fell foul of the official whilst offending at a ruck and then Gavin PAINTER suffering the same fate for kicking the ball out of the ruck.

After the restart, Stockport threatened to make progress, however, it was Park who rallied and roared on by the crowd, took it to the visitors, as their big pack tired visibly.

Park’s first score came from the boot of Gavin PAINTER, who slotted a penalty after returning to the field after his indiscretion.

Another long penalty was missed by Todd HARRISON, but Park seemed to have stepped up in spirit and sensed a victory.

At this point, in their haste to press forward their advantage, Park conspired to be sloppy in the execution stakes, with forward passes spoiling hints of scoring opportunities.

Stockport played their part and at times the action was end to end, until Gavin PAINTER landed another penalty. With a second yellow card for the visitors, it all seemed to be set up for just one score to clinch it, however Stockport saw out the clock and deservedly took the spoils.

Park learned a lot from this encounter against the best side they have played this season and although obviously disappointed at missing out, the squad will definately profit from the experience.