Sandbach continue impressive start to the campaign, but there are defeats for Leek and Stafford

SANDBACH made it back-to-back wins in Regional Two North West with a 38-20 home victory over Isle of Man side Douglas.

- Chris Travers

Sandbach got the game underway and a kickable early penalty allowed Matt Randle to take an early lead for the Bach.

A couple of minutes later and Douglas would counter that as they made a break and powered through Sandbach’s defence. Close to the line an offload left them free to score the first try of the afternoon.

Sandbach's first attack of the day came shortly after. Captain Laurie Essenhigh and winger Elliot Morris chased down an attacking kick and ushered Douglas’ fullback into touch, five metres out.

From Sandbach’s lineout Tom Holmes took possession and the maul formed. Tom Namguads pressed towards the line before Holmes took the ball once again and powered over for the try.

After Douglas took three points from a penalty, Sandbach were back in the opposition’s 22 when Ryan Arundale made a big charge forward before being brought down.

Jack Seddon was in support and picked the ball up and edged Sandbach closer to the line.

Namguads got hold of the ball and was able to push through for the try. This was patient play from Sandbach and after 29 minutes they were 17-8 ahead.

Douglas reduced the deficit when they scored shortly after. They charged down a kick deep in Sandbach’s half, which went into touch. A loose ball from a lineout was collected by the visitors and they scored the try.

Douglas were making life difficult for the hosts. As the half came to a close, Sandbach’s lead was reduced to 17-15.

With the second half underway, Douglas kicked to touch and the maul from the lineout got them within five metres of the line.

The ball was knocked on and Sandbach had a difficult scrum close to their line. Douglas had the momentum and managed to get the ball and there was no stopping them from that close and the try gave them the lead.