Joy turns to despair as Rangers let it slip

Phil Wood finds his way through blocked.

SADDLEWORTH Rangers made an encouraging start to their opening-day clash against Wigan St Judes in Division One of the National Conference League.

But, like OIdham St Anne’s (see story left), they finished empty-handed after succumbing 28-14 at Shaw Hall Bank Road.

Kiel Lancashire put Rangers in front with a penalty after 11 minutes, and when Jim Holden went in just after the half-hour mark the lead was up to six points.

It got even better for Emmerson Jackman’s side moments later. Adam Jeffrey touched down and Lancashire added the extras.

A dozen points to the good at half-time, Rangers were on course for a winning bow to 2013.

However, tries from Tom Owen and Dean Hunt in the first 10 minutes of the second period, both converted by Gareth Thomas, levelled things up.

Lancashire restored Rangers’ lead, but further scores from Scott Robinson, Stephen King and Michael Whittle sealed victory for St Judes. Thomas kicked two more goals.