A great first half but not enough points as Wirral once again come from behind to beat Stockport.

The final score of 38-12 was not a reflection of the territory and possession statistics but it was a reflection of Wirral’s ability to convert their chances into tries. Stockport dominated the first half, with an outstanding performance by the forwards, supported well by the backs. However knock ons and inaccuracy prevented the effort from being rewarded with scores. Stockport’s stand out players included scrum half Mark Ray, front rowers Simon Metcalfe and Tony Thoma and the returning Mike Kaciubskj at centre, but once again it was an all team effort with Kieran Hibbs leading by example as usual.

Stockport dominated the first 20 minutes and were held up over the try line after a good forward drive, they went through phases well to create opportunities but there were knock ons at crucial moments to relieve the pressure on Wirral. The visitors must have wondered how it is that Stockport have only one league point. After nearly scoring from a charge down Simon Currie ran a great line as Scott Redfern gave him a short pass allowing him to break the defence and score near the posts. Redfern converted. From the kick off Stockport gave away two offside penalties and Wirral opted for a scrum, despite being driven back they went through phases and scored an unconverted try, with no conversion Stockport stayed in front. Mark Ray made an excellent break into the Wirral half but at the ensuing ruck Wirral gained a penalty that gave a line out 5m out and the Wirral pack were efficient in their drive over for a try. On the stroke of half time, Wirral attacked from a clearance kick and a short pass created space for their centre to run in from 22 metres to give the visitors a 17-7 half time lead.

An early Stockport attack was cut short by another knock on and then second rower James Shaw was yellow carded. Stockport defended well but Wirral took advantage of their extra man to score from a line out to go 24-7 ahead. Stockport worked hard to reply but Wirral attacked again and despite some good tackling their off loading created a scoring chance and it was 31-7. This Stockport team does not give in and having got into the Wirral 22 Mike Kaciubskj ran a great line to near the posts and the recycled ball went to Simon Green who scored wide out on the right. Stockport then played well out of defence but a poor pass gave Wirral possession and they scored under the posts to complete the scoring at 38-12.

Next week is an away fixture at mid-table Lymm.