Saddleworth Rangers 34 Crosfields 28

A LATE try robbed a much-changed Crosfields side of victory as they bowed out of the National Conference Challenge Cup at Saddleworth Rangers.

Despite missing seven regular starters, Soap acquitted themselves well against the side from the division above and managed three tries in the first period, with Matt Mahoney’s brace being added to by a Kieran Thomas score.

However, the hosts remained in touch and led 22-16 at the break through four tries of their own.

Matt Barber and Ben Mellor crossed in the second half for Soap as the game was deadlocked at 28-28 moving into the last ten minutes, but Saddleworth crossed late on to progress to the next round.

Crosfields return home for their next game as they welcome Gateshead Storm to Hood Lane on Saturday, kick off 2:30pm

Crosfields: Taylor; Hamilton, Rookes, I Boden, Thomas; Barber, Reid; Pickersgill, Woodall, D Boden, Bani, Mahoney, Holcroft. Subs: Ansell, Eves, Clarke, Mellor