Rangers toppled off the top

ADLINGTON Rangers were toppled off the top of the league on Saturday by a well organised Milnrow side.

With some forced changes through illness and work commitment, Rangers seemed to lack any real bite, although they did take the lead with a well worked Carl Parker try after some sharp crossfield passing.

But this early lead was shortlived after Milnrow broke through the defence after some robust play to score a try.

Rangers' normally strong defence then went to tatters as Milnrow broke free to score further tries.

Injuries to four key Rangers players meant their team was shattered as Milnrow added insult to injury, running out easy victors.

Hooker Phil Moss and Martin Whittle battled hard n a well belwo form Rangers.

Man-of-the-match for Rangers was John Barker after a full 80 minutes effort.

This Saturday Rangers travel to rivals Bamber Bridge in the North West Cup.

Thatto Heath 32 Adlington Rangers 'A' 2

ADLINGTON travelled to strong league leaders Thatto Heath and put in a spirited performance.

Heath made an early breakthrough after some good passing to score a try and a conversion.

Rangers then had a glorious chance to draw level when Paul Dootson broke free. With only the full-back to beat he failed to see his team mates, held on and was tackled.

Heath tightened up their defence and it was up to Rangers' young players to stem the tide.

But Heath went over twice before the break and turned round 18-2 after Martin Hill kicked a Rangers penalty.

Heath piled on the pressure after the break and ran in further tries.

With Rangers needing points on the board they elected to run more of their penalties, but to no avail.

In the last quarter, Rangers pounded Heath's line, but their strong defence held out, with both Gary Prescott and Paul Cadman going close.

Rangers' man of the Match was Paul Cadman and next week Rangers 'A' are at home to Haydock 'A'.

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