Late anguish for Rangers

Paul Rafferty of Rangers tries force his way between two Leigh defenders. PICTURE: CHRIS SUNDERLAND

RUGBY: SADDLEWORTH Rangers were within seconds of picking up a victory which would have kicked them off the bottom of the National Conference League Premier Division table — only for Leigh Miners Rangers to record an equaliser for a 30-30 draw.

Scott O’Brien’s late try was followed by an important conversion from Jonathan Youds to gain a point for the title-chasers at Shaw Hall Bank Road.

For Saddleworth, it was another opportunity missed: relinquishing the lead has become a feature of their season.

Six points clear at half-time, Emerson Jackman’s side extended that advantage to 18 through converted tries from Wood and Adam Jeffrey and looked good for victory.

The Leigh side roared back to tie the game at 24-24 in its latter stages.

Saddleworth thought they had won when Josh Bradbury crossed, Lancashire adding his fifth conversion of the afternoon. Miners had other ideas.



ECCLES overcame an early red card to see off visiting Oldham St Anne’s 38-16 in Division One.

Mark Thomas was dismissed in the 11th minute for a high tackle, but it didn’t stop his side taking points after they cut loose in the final quarter.