Chudleigh rescue mission

Mar 19 2008 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Daily Post

WEST PARK, after their crushing defeat to ambitious Darlington Mowden Park last weekend, are now left in a nail-biting dogfight for survival in National Three North with Morley and Macclesfield with just three games left.

The 60-21 scoreline flattered Darlington, despite them having a much bigger side.

The Merseysiders never expected much knowing what a tough assignment lay ahead, but to their credit the visitors, superbly led by skipper Stephen Briers, never gave up hope of rescuing a losing bonus point.

Only an arm denied Briers a breakthrough that would have provided a fourth try with 10 minutes left.

Earlier, it was the inspiration of centre Briers that brought him a couple of touchdowns before creating a try for flanker Mark Williams.

Park’s position, just a single point above the drop zone, means their next game on Saturday, March 29 will be arguably the most vital game in the club’s history as they host Bradford and Bingley.

Caretaker coach Chris Chudleigh said: “We’ve got to win this one – it will be like a cup final.”

National Three North clubs face more uncertainties than ever with the RFU pondering over future funding at this level.

Last week at Twickenham, West Park’s former chief executive Rob Briers found himself as Lancashire’s representative in a council meeting that sat for six hours.