Latchford Albion 16 Ashton Bears 26

IT took a late try from higher division Ashton Bears to knock Latchford Albion out of the North West Men's League Cup on Saturday.

Ashton established a 10-point lead that was narrowed by a converted try from debutant Kiel Hillman that left the preliminary round tie in the balance until the closing stages.

Albion coach Lee Smith said: "We stuck to our game plan and you would never have known they were a team who last season were two divisions above us and finished second.

“The most pleasing aspect was 14 out of our 17 players came through the junior ranks showing what a great club we have."

It means Albion should not be downhearted as they start the Division One campaign at Chorley Panthers on Saturday.

Bears opened the scoring after 20 minutes but Latchford responded with a try from debutant Phil Scott after some great handling by David Yii. Sam Dobson converted for a 6-4 lead at half time.

Latchford again responded to an Ashton try Yii wriggled out of a tackle to cross.

Two tries in five minutes put the visitors in charge but when Hillman crossed in the corner and Dobson converted the game went back into the melting pot.

As Latchford tried to secure a famous win a spilled ball allowed Ashton field position and when a kick bounced favourably they scored the concluding try.

Latchford's Ryan Hickman, who made more than 40 tackles, was named man of the match.