Bateman BMW Premier League

This top of the table contest did not disappoint. Not until the final quarter did Sedgley manage to pull away in a competitive, enjoyable and skilful match, no resemblance whatsoever to the runaway wins of recent weeks.

The visitors scored first, their forwards rumbling over near the left corner, but Sedgley’s pack did appear marginally the stronger, achieving turnovers at a couple of scrums. A huge attack which featured twelve men in a driving maul narrowly failed to achieve a try.

Sedgley continued to press, winning a series of penalties. Eventually, with the referee’s arm outstretched for another advantage, the ball was moved into the centre and Sion O’Hare forced over near the posts; Dominic Kohler converted.

Park held their lead until the final kick of the half, a penalty goal putting Fylde ahead 8-7.

In the early minutes of the second half each side missed a long range penalty but, with the advantage of a diagonal wind now, Sedgley were having the better of the game territorially. There was much pressure but no points from two strong bursts by hooker Gareth Roberts.

Stand-off Kohler was beginning to appreciate the strength of the wind, and a long raking kick to the corner set up the position for the vital try, scored from short range by number 8 Matt Lamprey.

Moments later Lamprey was over again, with a burst of pace from a ruck 20 metres out; the conversion put Sedgley comfortably ahead at 19-8. The final try, scored from close range by prop Alastair Livesey, completed a successful afternoon for the Park boys who now enjoy top position in the table.