Glossop provided stern opposition for Stockport at Hargate Hill on Saturday, I understand Glossop have not lost at home for 2 years and the way they played confirmed why this was. It was a game, dominated by the defence of both teams and there was only one try, Glossop denying Stockport a bonus point for the second time this season. While Stockport dominated possession and territory and were always in control of the game, there were a number of occasions when the Stockport defence had to be good but the home side never really spent much time in the Stockport 22. So Stockport once again prevented their opponents scoring a try. In the set the Stockport scrum was dominant, driving Glossop back several times. With only Rory Austin’s try it was penalties that decided the game, the home side kicking one before half time, while Ewan Holt kicked the conversion and 3 penalties for Stockport for a final score of 3-16.

The game started with both sides being cautious and kicking for territory and it was after only 2 minutes that Austin collected the ball in his own 22 and ran through the mass of players from both teams between the 10m lines to find himself clear. His now well known long distance running allowed him to stay clear of the covering defenders and the first score was on the board. However, despite Stockport dominating and getting close to the line, the Glossop defence won penalties as they got hands on the ball and Stockport were penalised several times for holding on. After 15 minutes Holt kicked his first penalty from 30 metres for 0-10. Glossop kicked a penalty after Stockport had a warning from the referee about offences in their own 22 to make it 3-10 after 25 minutes. Stockport continued to exert pressure and all the forwards contributed to a good driving game, while the backs made some positive runs but the home defence remained firm. At the break the score was still 3-10.

Apart from two penalties by Holt there was no scoring in the second half with Stockport having the edge of possession and territory but Glossop defended very well and succeeded in preventing Stockport from crossing their line again. The game was played in excellent spirit, with both sides playing hard but fair. With the final score 3-16 Stockport are now 10 points ahead of Kendall in second place as Kendal did get a bonus point in their win against Firwood Waterloo.

Next week is a home game against Carlisle who Stockport beat 21-43 in the way fixture, but there are no easy games. Kick off will be at 2.15