Marple 2s Storm to Victory Over Carrington!

The rain held off and the stage was set for a cracking game of rugby as Marple 2s travelled to face Carrington.

With a full and hungry squad, Marple looked strong from the outset, while Carrington — short on numbers — were forced into uncontested scrums for the full match. But that didn’t dampen the intensity one bit.

Right from kickoff, Marple took control. The forwards set the tone, dominating early possession, and within ten minutes, Josh Longdon, back for his first game of the season, bulldozed his way through the defence to open the scoring in trademark fashion.

Moments later, Marple kept the pressure on. After a string of powerful rucks, Josh broke the line again, this time offloading mid-tackle just five metres out to Shane O’Reilly, who crashed over under the posts. It was a well-deserved try for Shane, who was a menace at the breakdown all afternoon — his relentless work earning him a Man of the Match performance.

Will “Topo” Topham coolly slotted both conversions, putting Marple firmly in control.

The first half continued with some slick handling and creative play through the backs. Will Carne lit up the game with two brilliant tries — one after a sweeping move through the centres — with Topo converting one to give Marple a commanding lead at the break.

Halftime: Carrington 12 – Marple 26

The second half saw Marple maintain control, though a few penalties and handling errors allowed Carrington to stay within touching distance. Still, the Marple pack refused to back down.

Strong carries from Ken “Kenny” Sugden (yes, the Guinness World Record holder himself!), debutant Josh, Cam Murray, and Adam Potts kept Carrington on the back foot. Shane O’Reilly and Matt Davies continued to dominate at the ruck, stealing possession time and time again.

Fresh legs came on in the form of Alban Tramard, Aaron Milne, and Kieren Malpus, helping Marple close out the game with intensity and composure.

Late tries from debutant Josh, Cam, and Kenny sealed the deal, capping off a superb all-round team performance.

Full Time: Carrington 24 – Marple 47

That’s Marple’s fourth win of the season, keeping them top of the league after five games — just one point clear of both Leek 3rds and Trafford MV 3rds, and two ahead of the Village Spartans, who visit Marple next weekend.

Spirits are sky-high, the squad’s buzzing, and the boys are fired up for another big performance — and hopefully another five points!

Up the Marple 2s!

Man of the match: Shane O'Reilly