Report by Theo Bowyer

In perfect playing conditions Port were quickly into their stride and secured an early penalty kick, courtesy of the Ben Dearing’s boot. 0-3
It was Sandbach however who delivered the first bit of real quality, with a brilliant pass allowing the winger no break in stride and a try for the home side. 7-3 (try conv).
The next 10 minutes felt like an education in how to scrum from the away side, with a real marker set for the rest of the match.
Bach were pressing but getting no loose change from Port who were in determined mood to keep the home side quiet.
A brilliant 50-22 nudge from Tom Eaton gave Port prime position with a line-out but Sandbach ripped the ball from the resulting play.
After more Port possession without real penetration, barring some lovely offloads, a penalty was awarded for Bach not rolling away. Dearing obliged and Bach’s lead was a tenuous one. 7-6.
Port were starting to dominate. Then another moment of quick thinking from Rory Atwill. Looking like he was initially tackled but not held, he bounced up and ran through a sleeping Bach defence. The swallow dive was particularly amusing. 7-13 (try conv). Port were deservedly in the lead and a crucial time to get their head in front on the stroke of half time.

The game was following a predictable pattern, Port firmly on the front foot. They weren’t giving Bach a chance to show how dangerous they can be with ball in hand and were turning the screw at any given opportunity.
Port were dominating every facet of the game and the line-out and scrum were working a treat. Early in the second half and a well executed move gave Will Conner an easy score. 7-20 (try conv).
Port really had the bit between their teeth and weren’t in any mood to relinquish their firm grip on this one. More quality set piece ball and Dirk Bruill sauntered in at the far corner. Everything was clicking and there was more to come! 7-25 (conv. missed).
The pack were bristling with confidence and every opportunity was being created from this brilliant platform. Right on cue Port were awarded a penalty try for Bach taking down the scrum when a try looked on the cards. 7-32.
Sandbach were being limited to running from their own 22 and the attitude and aptitude from Port was never in question. A forced Sandbach pass gifted Sam Fisher an easy try to reflect the balance of play. 7-37 (conv. missed). Sheratte was on and a warm round of applause for the returning hooker. Ironically he was yellow carded minutes later, a tactical one, and later claimed that had stopped Sandbach from registering any score for in the second half. Final Score… Sandbach 7 Stockport 37.
The fact Port had shut out Sandbach for well over an hour was true testament to their meanness, line speed in defence and fierce tackling. Without question it was the strongest performance this season. Bruill was awarded man of the match for a superb ball carrying display.

We welcome Cleakheaton this Saturday and a win will guarantee a Semi Final berth.