Chester in mourning

Apr 23 2008 by Our Correspondent, Liverpool Daily Post

CHESTER rounded off their best season for many years with a 27-5 success at Lymm.

It was their 19th win in 22 league outings and they are clearly worthy champions. They are also unbeaten in 2008.

But the club has been rocked by the untimely death this week of Aled Evans following a roof fall. Back-row man Aled from Dolgllau signed in at Hare Lane earlier in the season and provided a major contribution.

“We are all deeply shocked and trying to come to terms with it,” said director of rugby Steve Donovan. “After the euphoria of winning the title and the Intermediate Cup this puts everything into perspective.”

Chester now turn their attention to competing in seven-a-side tournaments before a well-deserved summer break.

They have their annual dinner on Friday May 2 and it should be a great occasion, although severely tempered by the loss of 29-year-old Evans, who had a big part to play in the years ahead.

“I could not have asked for more from the players and back room staff,” said coach Rob Foden at the end of his first season in charge.