Sun 12 Oct 2025, 14:00
Eccles took a 23-player squad to Moorgate who were top of the table, having defeated Oswestry, Burnley and Tarleton scoring +25 points each time, with only Preston beating them so far this season.
Eccles made the stronger start, with a terrific break upfeild from Dicko halted by a high tackle on the wing. The resulting quick tap penalty took play into the 22 which culminated in a yellow card for Moorgate in front of the posts an the penalty kick from Josh at 14 mins gave Eccles the lead 0-3. Eccles then followed suit with Dan P shown a yellow card but Moorgate were unable to take advantage of this and Eccles teritory was barely entered for the first 20 mins of the game. When Moorgate did attack, they were effective and the hsots converted a try to go into the interval 7-3 ahead.
The half time talk motivated the Eccles lads with what would required if their wanted to take the win and the points home which set the tone for the second half. Eccles came out swinging and were rewarded after 60 mins of sustained effort with a hard fought try from Alex after a great carry from Josh to make it 7-8 to Eccles.
Moorgate fought back to take the lead minutes later at 14-8 and the remaining 18 mins was a nail-biter. A few handling errors from the hosts let Eccles off the hook when they looked certain to score. Eccles never lost belief and after testing the Moorgate defence with a series of hard carries from close range, our efforts paid off, with Jenson forcing his way over the line for a try to make it 14-13. Under pressure of the charge down Josh JUST squeezed in the convertion inside of the upright as the last kick of the game and the win was secured.
FT 14-15
The effort, tenacity, intensity and confidence displayed from the whole team made the difference. Noticeable performance from Owen who” Boss’d it” at scrum half, Josh for his strong carries and work rate, also Isaac and Kyle who showed what they are capable of. Special mention to Dicko who we wish a speedy recovery after his trip to A&E for a deep cut to his head. Next week at home to Burnley.
