The sun only shines on the righteous and so it came to pass as Headlands Road was blessed with rays for the 3rd XV’s final home game of the season against Marple 2’s. The reverse encounter earlier in the season had been played in weather of biblical proportion so the sun was a welcome addition however when we noticed the average age of the Marple back line was about 15 we knew we were in for a long day.

The game started well with Stockport playing down the slope and with all the possession and territory which eventually led to gargantuan centre Dave Holehouse blasting over for a try converted by stand off Rick Morgan. Marple then returned the favour when they strolled over to give the score line a 7-7 reflection however Morgan managed to nudge Stockport in front with a penalty as half time loomed. On the stroke of the whistle, Marple went over for their 2nd converted try of the day giving the visitors a 12-14 half time lead.

The second half saw probably some of the best rugby that the 3’s have played all season with the forwards marching Marple all over the place with their impeccable driving maul which was eventually rewarded when wing Simon Bollington went over in the corner which was added to by a touch line conversion from Morgan. The rolling maul was again the fore as hooker Rick Walker streaked away unopposed for another Morgan converted try turning 17-14 into 24-14. This was all done despite veteran prop Derrick Spencer spending the game holding hands with the opposition and unable to assist whilst No.8 Andy English did his best to assist Marple with his forward passes and wayward kicking. Marple came storming back into it with a try of their own but by now the scrums were uncontested and English redeemed himself with a storming break from the base followed by a lovely show and go which saw him under the sticks, improved by the metronomic Morgan. Marple did managed a consolation try on the final whistle but it was too little too late as the home side took the spoils 34-24.