Defeated Rangers finish up in ninth

RUGBY LEAGUE: SADDLEWORTH Rangers lost 52-12 at Leigh Miners Rangers last night, a result which ensures they finish their first season back in the National Conference League Premier Division in a creditable ninth position.

The game was originally down to be played on Saturday, but was switched to midweek as a result of Saddleworth’s shortage of available players.

The Leigh side stormed out of the blocks to take a 28-0 lead into the half-time break.

And the visitors’ cause wasn’t aided by three sin-binnings — Matt Bottom had two spells off the field and Jimmy Rogers one — plus a red card for Josh Brown.

Gareth Morgan’s double in the second half, accompanied by two Michael Coates goals, at least gave Rangers some cheer in the final game of a long season.

“We had a good go at them in the second half, despite being down to 10 men at one stage,” said Rangers coach Keith Brennan.

“Our goal at the start of the season was to stay in the division, so in that respect we have done well.

“If we had applied ourselves better, I think we could have finished higher up the table.

“But I can’t knock the effort that the lads have put in over the season.

“I have learned a lot personally and I think the players have, too. In this division you can’t afford to let your level drop against anyone.”




OLDHAM St Anne’s face the final game of their season on Saturday, travelling to face Myton in Division One. In Division Two, Waterhead are away at Egremont in their penultimate fixture.