Cool head rescues point for St Anne’s

JOHN Deakin bursts through a tackle.

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RUGBY: OLDHAM St Anne’s made a terrific start against Crosfields in their opening National Conference League clash of the season — but had to settle for a draw in an entertaining 28-28 finish at Higginshaw Road.

Saints had the better of the first quarter and showed some fine touches, going ahead through a Matt Whitehead penalty before Greg Worrall dived in after intercepting the ball 75 yards out. Whitehead converted.

The home side were soon 14 points to the good when Craig Basnett added a try which Whitehead goaled.

Crosfields found their feet with Kieron Thomas and Matt Barber touching down. Billy Sheen kicked a conversion to cut the deficit to four points. Saints responded with a try and a Whitehead conversion, and in the 30th minute poacher supreme Worrall was on hand to intercept another loose Crosfields pass and race in from 60 yards unopposed. A Whitehead conversion saw Saints lead 26-10 at the break.

The third quarter was a different story as tries from Sheen, Ash Cornelia and Thomas — Sheen converted all three — put Crosfields in front at 28-26.

Saints threw everything at the visitors during the closing minutes but Crosfields held firm until conceding a penalty, which Whitehead slotted over.