Rangers rally just isn't enough in Trojans loss
Date published: 08 August 2017
AN improved second-half performance couldn't prevent gutsy Saddleworth Rangers from slipping to a narrow 25-24 home defeat to Thornhill Trojans in Division Two of the National Conference League.
In a pulsating game at Shaw Hall Bank Road, only a 75th-minute drop-goal from the visitors separated the teams at the final whistle.
Wayne Wilson bagged an early try for the second-placed Trojans, and added to four kicks from Danny Ratcliffe, taking the visitors into led 12-0 at the interval.
Gareth Morgan dived over for the hosts just two minutes after the restart, with Ben Whitehead kicking the conversion to reduce the deficit to six points.
The scores were level in the 50th minute when Josh Bradbury scored a try, again converted by the ever-reliable Whitehead.
Just past the hour mark, two quick tries from the Trojans effectively took the game away from Rangers.
Danny Ratcliffe scored a try and kicked a couple of conversions, while Josh Clough also went over.
Ratcliffe's nerveless drop-goal extended the Trojans' lead to 25-18, before Rangers went on to have the final word.
Andy Joy charged over for a 77th-minute try, goaled by Whitehead, but it just wasn't enough for the gallant hosts.
Rangers currently sit in eighth place.
* PETER Davies scored four tries for struggling Waterhead Warriors in their Division Three clash at home against Dewsbury Celtic, but they still lost 28-24 on what proved to be a frustrating day.
The Warriors produced an encouraging fightback in the final quarter of the game, having found been 28-10 behind after 60 minutes.
James Perks also scored a try for the hosts, while Jamie Mayall landed two goals.
