Macclesfield 48 LSH14

LSH'S forgettable season was finally brought to a close with a lacklustre display against one of last year's promoted sides.

Playing like a team that had tried their hearts out, week after week for little reward, LSH quite simply, capitulated in the last twenty minutes.

Until that point it had been a contest, with Macclesfield having the majority of possession but being held to a 17-14 lead.

The Cheshire outfit then ran in five tries, three converted, in the last quarter before the referee thankfully halted proceedings

As so often this season LSH made a good start and went in front after 15 minutes with a 25 metre try from Sean Casey.

Unfortunately the inspirational skipper then got himself sin binned during which time Macclesfield took full advantage. Full back Ben Coulbeck and winger Steve Campbell ran in tries to give the home side a 10-7 lead at half time.

With the pack being given a difficult time, LSH were turning over possession much too frequently and from one such occasion early in the second half, Macclesfield scrum half Andy Rice scored their third try.

LSH fought back and replacement prop Chris Lucas, making his senior debut, drove the ball towards the Macclesfield line setting up a rolling maul, successfully finished off with a touchdown from Martin Gaskell. Simon Worsley notched his second conversion of the afternoon to put LSH within three points of their opposition.

Then, as if the whole season's trials and tribulations had descended on the wearying legs of the Moss Laners, the home side scored tries through Coulbeck, Newell, Keep, Howcroft and Bienasz.

A disappointing end to a disappointing season.

President Ray French said: "No matter that we have lost only narrowly to all of the best sides in the Division and that the attitude and application of the lads has been excellent throughout. In the final analysis we have not proved to be good enough."

LSH must now look forward and plan for an immediate return to the National League and following confirmation of the appointment of Paul Woodward as Head Coach, details of the new management and coaching set-up at Moss Lane are to be announced in the very near future.