On a crisp autumnal overcast day, Port turned up to Crouchley Lane knowing full well they were in for a tough game. Blighted by injuries to key players, this was clearly Port’s sternest test of the season. Could they maintain their unbeaten run?
Port were caught cold from the early skirmishes as Lymm’s high intensity and quick thinking, on a favourable artificial surface that they suited their game. Fast hands on the right wing and Lymm were over for an easy score. 7-0 (try conv).
Port’s first opportunity to gain a foothold in the game came from a 30m driving maul. Port looked sure to score with so much go forward momentum, but couldn’t capitalise.
Lymm knew this was a massive let off and they drew a penalty after Port were punished for holding on. 10-0. A special mention to Lymm fly half, Tom Shard who kicked superbly and controlled the game for his side.
The referee, who made some questionable decisions - was once again under the spotlight after awarding a yellow to Matt Lawrowitsch for taking down the scrum. After further play another penalty was awarded to Lymm and although it was at least a metre wide of the upright the touch judges raised their flags.13-0. For a brief moment a full compliment was restored, before Tom Eaton was questionably sent to the sin bin. Port’s poor discipline plagued the whole game and suffocated any chance for them to build from a solid base and needs to be addressed before the Macclesfield match on Saturday.
The one way traffic continued - after Richard Sackville-West was the latest bench warmer for ten. A Stockport error was capitalised on by Lymm, to go over again just before the half time whistle. 20-0 (try conv), and another try just after, followed by a penalty left Stockport hanging on with only 13 players on the pitch.

Back to full strength and Port were able to impose themselves on a match which could have ran away from them. A bustling drive from Setareki Talatoka and a consolation try. 30-7 (try conv). Before another try after more good work from the forwards. 30-14 (try conv). Stockport will be disappointed by the two tries that went begging shortly after and combined with the slow and indisciplined start things could have been much different. Congratulations to Lymm who showed their experience at this level. A big lesson for the lads who will be bitterly disappointed, but confident that they know what they need to do differently next time out. We look forward to welcoming Macclesfield at home next week.