Stanley came into this game with an horrendous run of sickness, injuries and absentees. The game saw us coming with only 13 players out of a squad of 19, with Lee Alderson, Brandon French, Tom McGretton,. Ben Cornell, Mathew English, and Sam Walker all missing.

 

The referee gave us the option at the outset of not playing due to the state of the pitch, as there were no visible markings at all. Stanley head coach Roy Sampson consulted with his assistant, and it was decided that we play no matter how many we have out or missing, and it proved to be a superb coaching decision.

 

The Milford side looked full of confidence and appeared to have the game won in the warm up ! but as we all know Rugby League changes from one week to another. Stanley from the kick off looked up for any challenge, and from adversity comes reward with Stanley being the dominant side in both attack and defence. Stanley from some great go forward conceded a try completely against the run of play, bu this week did not put their heads down, but came out looking stronger, and much more determined.

The first try was a result of some great go forward and distribution, that put us 15 metres off the Milford line. Jones jumped out gave a good ball to Jonny "the Try Machine" Holmes to score his second competitive try, and what a beauty it was. Jow added the extras and half time came around with the scores level.

The second half with some good work from tackling machine Nathan Stone and Eddie Daly defending anything put us on the front foot. Milford again after 2 back to back sets scored a try down the short side but failed to convert. That was the only time Milford got into our half during the second period.

Stanley with more composure could have scored at least 2 more tries, but maintained the levels of energy, that looked to be draining from Milford. Sowerby took the ball to the line with Stone and Holt running with real purpose and vigour. Cornell entered the field of play after a stirling effort from Jones, and continued with some great distribution. Sampson Donegan, Holmes, and Hardaker ran themselves to a standstill but with Hobson and Day coming in for more work we managed to end the game with a great 4 pointer from Holt. Jow converted the try with a sensational kick, and a more well deserved win I have yet to see.

The Stanley boys won with real professionalism and conducted themselves well. The team are looking forward to another good draw in the next round, the quarter final stage of the competition.