Too little too late

THIS was a crucial bottom of the table clasdh with both teams badly needing a win.

Chorley fielded a strong team and were relishing the chance to take on Colne and Nelson, a team with a reliable defence.

Chorley, however, began the match playing Colne and Nelson at their own game, using their front line.

This was to cost Chorley dear. After the first 20 minutes, which included some good attacking and solid defenceive work, the Colne and Nelson forwards began to assert their authority.

In the 25th minute they won a line out from the Chorley try line and drove over to score. The try was converted - 0-7.

Colne and Nelson added to their lead with the only other points of the half, a penalty.

After a second try and conversion early in the second half, Colne and Nelson led 0-17..

Their forwards continued to dominate, but Chorley also had their opportunities to score, but failed to turn chances into points.

In the 60th minute, Colne and Nelson controlled a scrum ten metres from the Chorley line, driving forward before releasing to their number eight to dive over.

That stretched their lead to 0-27.

The final ten minutes was all Chorley as they dug deep to regain their pride. After using their backs strength, winger Jonathon Jackson went over in the corner. Too little too late meant Chorley were left to reflect on a game they should and could have won.

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