1st XV 26 - 12 Marple

On Saturday Hoylake’s league campaign came to a close with a home game against Marple. After the previous week’s heroic display in defeating fellow promotion rivals, Liverpool Collegiate 18-6, the equation was simple, win and Hoylake RFC would be promoted. After last year’s heart-breaking relegation, promotion this season back to South Lancs/Cheshire 1 was always the aim this season.

The day began with glorious sunshine and a packed dining room as Bradshaw, Farnham & Lea sponsored the pre match meal. With a bumper crowd containing many familiar faces from; sponsors, past players, friends and family the stage was set.

The game started with Hoylake coming out the blocks in a similar fashion to the previous week and took the game to Marple who had little answer to Hoylake’s attacks. Barely 2 minutes on the clock and Hoylake had their first try through Tom Selby-Milic after a fine break by Ben Sparkes. Joseph Lavin provided the extras from out wide to give Hoylake a 7-0. This lead was increased 10 minutes later, when Joseph Lavin sprinted clear from half way. Approaching half time Matt O’Hanlon picked a fine inside line at a ruck to score under the sticks. Joseph Lavin had no problem with the extras. At half time Hoylake had a 19-0 lead and the scene appeared to be set for a comfortable afternoon for the red, white and green.

As the second half kicked off Marple rallied, this was no surprise as recent form had seen them move up to 5th table. Couple this with Hoylake’s, ‘We don’t like to do things easy…’ approach and it was no surprise that Marple hit back with 2 tries at the start of the half to leave the score 19-12 to the hosts. The Hoylake crowd and team were in a sense of panic. However the reintroduction of Matt O’Hanlon (after a first half injury) breathed new impetus into Hoylake. And it was he who scored Hoylake’s bonus point try 10 minutes from time. This try was again converted by Joseph Lavin and everyone involved with Hoylake breathed a big sigh of relief. The final whistle went and with it confirmation that Hoylake RFC had been promoted to South Lancs/Cheshire 1.

Promotion was always the aim for the team this season; however it has been far from easy and has taken a massive team effort from not only the players but the coaching staff as well. Hoylake RFC would also like to take the opportunity to thank all of their unwavering support and of course all of our sponsors that have supported the club this year.

Easter Monday see's Hoylake travel to Crewe to face old rivals Winnington Park in the Cheshire Bowl Final. KO is 1pm.
Hoylake are looking to retain the 'trophy' but it won't be easy. From recent results, its apparent that Winnington Park has recovered from their mid season blip and have some key players back in the fold. It should be a exciting game followed by the Vase final which between other old friends. Birkenhead Park and Northtwich. Make sure you get down there