HALTON inflicted Sale's first defeat of the season.

Travelling with the bare minimum Halton started well and for most of the first half they were camped in Sale's half.

They were awarded a number of penalties, which they elected to run, but excellent defence by Sale kept Halton at bay.

With half time approaching Sale were awarded a penalty, which they converted.

After the break Sale added a converted try to give them a 10-0 lead.

The comeback started with a well-won lineout and good work in the loose by the forwards.

Fine handling by the backs saw man of the match Ste Curphey score a well-worked try.

From the kick-off Halton continued to attack but Sale's defence held well. Then Ste Curphey saw the Sale fullback out of position, he chipped over the defensive line from 30 metres out, gathered his own kick and scored just right of the posts, converted by Mellor making it 12-10 Halton.

The last 10 minutes of the game Sale put a lot of pressure on the Halton line but their defence held.

Halton were unable to field a second team this week but will continue their efforts to establish one.

Halton are home to St Edwards Old Boys this weekend kick-off 2.30pm.