Pennine League Division Six West: Illingworth 32 Worth Village 36

VILLAGE travelled to Illingworth to find that for the second game in two weeks their opponents’ first team had had their game cancelled.

It meant the hosts fielded a very experienced side but that did not deter Worth, who raced into an early lead, with Sean Cole and Jason Dovestone both involved before Ben Ross stormed over from 40 yards. Billy McKay converted from the touchline.

Playing downhill, Illingworth’s forwards were running with confidence but they were thwarted by solid defence, well led by Luke Whitley, Rob Spencer and man of the match Nick Hird, whose copybook tackling was a delight to watch.

Jack Copperwaite was also outstanding in defence and attack, scoring from a break by Joe Buckley, with Connor Caveney and James Gow involved.

With Sean Knapper and Jonny Crowther keeping the big Illingworth forwards out, Daz Jackson was next on the scoresheet when a barnstorming run from Jake Feather gave him the gap to go in under the posts.

Ross finished off a good half with his second try, after a break from Buckley, to make it 24-0.

Jack Copperwaite increased the lead after a good kick and chase before Ilingworth got back in the game with two quick tries. Jackson scored after good work from Dean Farrell and Hird, McKay converting for his sixth goal.

Village took their foot off the gas and Illingworth closed the gap. Only a last-gasp match-saving tackle from Sean Snowden prevented them from stealing the spoils.

Worth host Queensbury on Saturday.