Lostock'S winning start to the season came to an abrupt end with a 39-7 in the Tetley Bitter Vase first round tie. Losing 10 squad members for the match and a delayed kick-off due to the late arrival of the referee was not ideal preperation for the home side against opposition from two leagues higher.

Lostock started poorly and a half time dressing down fired up Lostock for the start of the second half and for 20 minutes played some excellent rugby. They scored their only try midway through this period when after some sustained pressure centre Mark Townsend crashed over for a well deserved try. Mallen converted .

Lostock's next game is the opening fixture of the league campaign away at Littleborough. For further information please contact Barry Jubb on 01204696998.