Holmes Chapel v New Brighton

In their first Quarter Final for 5 years, Holmes Chapel RUFC entertained New Brighton RUFC in the Lighting and Building Services Plate on Saturday. It was the first time Chapel had ever played New Brighton, but the side knew they would be very capable opposition, the villagers knew they were going to be in for a tough game and the visitors didn't disappoint.

The game started well for the home side, Jim Bowbeer and Jon Griffin putting on some pressure leading to a couple of early Andy Davies penalties which gave Chapel an early lead. The sides were evenly matched up front, Mark Mceneany working hard backed up by the ageless Ian Lightfoot. More pressure from Chapel and a fine run from Nic Clawson gave Chapel the first try of the game which was duly converted for a 13-0 lead.

Then it was New Brighton's turn to apply pressure, their forwards gaining good yards, despite a determined effort from Captain Tom Chambers and Dom Moss, but the visitors driving mauls were causing problems and ultimately led to a converted try and put them right back in the game. Chapel re-grouped, good work from Jim Moss and Clawson again applying the finishing touches for a converted try to re-establish a 13 point lead.

The visitors then had a period on top and scored back to back tries, crucially only one of them converted. Chapel struck back as Clawson completed his hatrick and put Chapel 8 point up going into the final period of the game. A dogged defence held strong till the final whistle with more fine tackling from Jim Moss and Chapel had made it to the semi finals, just!

Holmes Chapel would like to thank their opponents New Brighton for game played in good spirit and wish then every success for the rest of the season. They would also like to thank Club Sponsor Pochin for their continued support. Man of the Match was awarded to Jim Moss. It's back to league action next week and an away trip to Oswestry.