Determined Caldy see cup run brought to a halt

Dec 10 2007 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Daily Post

CALDY put in a determined display against higher-rated opposition before losing interest in the EDF Energy National Trophy at the third round stage.

Play was never easy in the wet and windy conditions, but Caldy restricted the National Two League leaders to just one try with some excellent defensive work.

Richard Broer made his debut in the Caldy second-row alongside Greg Lyon, who was making his first senior start of the season, and the pair did well.

It was never a day for running rugby and Caldy were well pleased with the efforts of the pack throughout the 80 minutes.

Manchester were not at full strength but fielded a very experienced line-up. They faced the strong wind for the first period and confidently kept their line intact before edging ahead with a penalty.

Their only touchdown followed after the break and there was another penalty in the closing stages. Caldy came close to opening their account on a couple of occasions. Russ Kelly was held just short. Then Derek Salisbury went clear only to be hauled back for accidental offside.

Skipper Sean Woof made a successful return for Caldy after a lengthy absence. Matt Pennington was entrusted with the fly-half role with Ben MacPherson still out through injury but the backs never really had a chance to shine.

Caldy now turn their attentions to their next league game at Morley on Saturday and will be confident of another victory at a ground where they won in the second stage of the Trophy earlier in the season.