Does it get any bigger and more intense than this for Sandbach? A local derby, where both teams are fighting for survival in the Regional One North West league?

After a week off, Sandbach hosted local rivals Northwich, where both teams were desperate for a win. When the two teams met in November, Northwich won at home, but they are yet to win away this season, so home advantage could be favourable.

The Bach welcomed scrum-half Laurie Essenhigh back to the starting line-up as they made a confident start and opened the scoring just over ten minutes in. Northwich gave away several penalties allowing Sandbach to gain some territory. The ball found its way to Essenhigh from a Sandbach maul. He linked with winger Elliott Morris who would weave through the Northwich defence and score the first try of the day.

(Photo: Paul Cooke)

Sandbach continued to play positive rugby and Essenhigh was enjoying himself, especially when he scored the second try. With Sandbach on the receiving end of a high tackle, the scrum-half took the quick tap and powered through to score. After seventeen minutes Sandbach were now leading 14-0.

Before half-time, Northwich would find some fortune. Sandbach were on the attack only to knock the ball into the hands of the opposition and with the defence already committed, Northwich couldn't be caught. It was a disappointing way to end the half for the Bach and at 14-7, both teams were still in it.

Northwich thought they'd started where they left off as the second half got underway. After a Sandbach knock on, their fly-half thought he'd scored only for the referee to call back for a penalty. Northwich fumbled their lineout and Sandbach cleared their lines.

When Sandbach made it into Northwich's half, what would follow was an intense period of attack for the Bach. Sandbach's committed forwards edged closer going through many phases only to be continually repelled by Northwich's defence.

(Photo: Paul Cooke)

The energetic Ali Burton came on for Sandbach and the Bach attacked once again. The forwards had another pick and drive penalty and went strongly before number eight Jack Seddon surged over. A lot of rugby had been played in the opening thirteen minutes of the second half and this was a well-earned and patient try.

At 21-7, Northwich seemed rattled and Sandbach were searching for a crucial bonus point as they continued to apply attacking pressure. The Bach were moving the ball quickly and their fast-moving play caught Northwich off guard. Fullback Ed Vitta, who was having a standout game, would find the ball on the wing. He had support out wide but didn't need it as he crossed the line and increased the lead to 26-7.

Victory was secured when Morris earned his second try, and the Bach's fifth, directly under the posts. Morris has been in impressive form recently and he again showed his pace and skill to sidestep Northwich's defence to score.

Northwich tried to get some points in the final stages of the match, but Sandbach's defence stood firm and it was captain Jimmy Gore who secured the final penalty as the clock went red. Nick Allsop kicked to touch ending the match 33-7. Man of the match was awarded to Harry Hughes.

After this well-deserved victory and passionate display, Sandbach move off the bottom of the table but the battle for safety continues.

Sandbach 1st XV 33-7 Northwich 1st XV – Saturday 2nd March – Kick-off 3.00pm  

Northern Division – Regional 1 North West 

Match report by Rhys Fullerton