Saints’ late show secures progress

RUGBY: IN their first competitive outing of the year Oldham St Anne’s battled into the second round of the BARLA National Cup with a 22-19 win over West Leeds Eagles.

But Saints left it late: they trailed by three points in the final five minutes.

Coaches Sean Whitehead and Paul Ashton went with a young side for a heavy Eagles pitch and the side started well. John Deakin threw a perfect pass to winger Callum Cashin, who scored in the corner.

The visitors seemed certain to add to their tally when full-back Craig Bassnett burst clear, only for the ball to go to ground.

Eagles hit back with a brace of tries, one goaled, but Saints were level at the break thanks to loose forward Sam Akeroyd scoring under the posts, Whitehead adding the goal.

The hosts were quick out of the blocks after the restart, taking a six-point lead with a converted effort.

When Deakin gave away a soft penalty, Eagles grabbed the chance. But Saints didn’t let their heads drop. Whitehead twisted his way over the line before converting his own score.

Saints refused to lie down after an Eagles drop goal. The young pack made good progress and a fine kick had Eagles scrummaging 10 metres from their own line.

Hard-working prop Rhys Wareing crashed through an exhausted Eagles line and, with Whitehead goaling, victory was taken with some drama.