Oswestry 14, Glossop 17
OSWESTRY started the new season with the disappointing loss of a game they will feel they should have won, or at least drawn.
Oswestry, after scoring two impressive first half tries without reply, allowed the experienced visitors back into the game and to just secure a win.
In near perfect playing conditions and with a new centre pairing of the versatile Sam Wright and Rob Massam on display Oswestry opened with style, moving the ball freely and closing down opposition ball impressively. A smart break by Gareth Jones and a solid second phase took the home side into the corner only to knock on.
On 15 minutes winger Tom Keaveny retrieved a long ball, ran across midfield, passing to Massam who made 30 yards before passing inside to captain Dan Samuels to score. Jones converting.
Glossop came back into the game and a period of end-to-end open rugby took place in which the visitors missed a penalty.
On 40 minutes Oswestry put the visitors on the back foot, allowing Massam to strip away possession from the Glossop outside half and run 40 yards to score. Jones converting. At this time who would have thought this would be the home side's last score?
Dominated
Oswestry started the second period with 14 men after a yellow card for persistent infringements. Glossop taking this advantage, plus, with some unusual sloppy defending, scored and converted after six minutes. Glossop continued to dominate but a swift counter break by Oswestry from 22 to 22 should have regained the momentum. However, two more visiting tries made the score 14-17.
Oswestry in the final 10 minutes had plenty of possession close to the Glossop line but could not break down a resolute defence and missed two late penalty kicks one grazing the upright. Despite the loss Oswestry showed they are well drilled and have plenty of flair for the season to come.
With the introduction of a bonus system Oswestry gained one point for a loss by seven points or less.
This Saturday the Firsts are away in the league to Hoylake; the Seconds are at home to Liverpool Collegiate 2nds and the Thirds are at home to Altrincham Kersal Fourths.