Pre match injuries to two players and two more during the game meant that eventually Stockport’s back line took on an entirely new look! After taking an early lead through a penalty it was soon wiped out and it was the home side who then ran amok and ran up a 24-3 lead with some very generous defending by Stockport. There was a glimmer of hope just before the half time whistle with Nick Smith touching down after the Stockport forwards had driven to the line.

The travelling supporters were hopeful that 10 minutes in the changing room at half time might have helped turn things round. Unfortunately it appeared to have the opposite effect and very quickly the deficit had risen to 36-8 with the home side thinking that Christmas had arrived early.

With 25 minutes remaining,and with a degree of resignation, Stockport coach Tim Burgon threw on his remaining replacements. Suddenly Stockport burst into life. 19 to go and Man of the Match Nick Smith bagged his second of the day and Josh Longmore added the conversion. 36-15

Seven minutes later Stockport were over the try line again. This time left wing Mike Kaciubskyj made a strong run into the corner. Josh Longmore stroked over the conversion 36-22. Stockport were suddenly threatening Leicester every time they had possession and with 6 minutes to go Captain Dave Marwick scored a try and Longmore again added the extras. 36-29. This also brought a try bonus point for Stockport and potentially a losing bonus point having reduced the gap to 7 points.

Straight from the kick off Stockport were charging for the line again and this time it was second row Dave Hopkins who showed great support play. With hindsight he might have tried to have made the conversion a little easier and the conversion attempt from Longmore went just wide.
With time winding down the home side resorted to doing everything they could just to retain the ball. Suddenly Stockport turned the ball over and Josh Longmore floated a long ball to the right. Centre Greg Newton would have been clean away but the referee judged that it had drifted forward. 5 tries and on the losing side ‘One crazy game of Rugby’ it was agreed. 36-34

Stockport return to Headlands Road this Saturday for a National 2 North fixture v Bromsgrove. Kick Off 3.0pm