NORTHWICH RUFC lifted themselves off the bottom of the table thanks to their second win of the season.
Blacks overhauled Regional 2 North West mid-table side Crewe & Nantwich 25-0 at Moss Farm, with a selection decision proving to be an inspired move.
Jack Owens’ switch from centre to wing forward allowed man-of-the-match Zak Richardson to take up his familiar spot in the backs, while the coaching team also welcomed back the return of Charlie Bankroft and Anthony Keller to the squad.
Northwich started well and following a bright attack were awarded a penalty for the ever-improving Harry Naylor to convert.
For the next 25 minutes it was an arm wrestle, with Northwich unable to break through the visitors’ solid defence until a lineout ensued.
From the set-piece the ball was moved wide and a well-timed pass allowed Kyle Clarke to score a fine try that Naylor converted.
The second half resumed with another Naylor penalty and on the 55th minute Tom Husbands finished off a great counter attack.
The extras went begging but the Blacks lead was now 18 points.
Crewe & Nantwich tried everything to get back into the contest, putting Northwich under extreme pressure through their dominant scrum.
Following a series of scrums Blacks had to count themselves lucky not to receive a yellow card for multiple offences.
Nevertheless, they dogged it out and showed determination in defending the line.
With 10 minutes left Blacks were awarded a penalty and went for a lineout.
With the ball secured Northwich drove for the line where the ever-present Tom White was on hand to drive over for a well-deserved try.
Blacks are now a point clear of cellar dwellers and town rivals Winnington Park.
This was the best Northwich performance of the season so far, with great showings from Levy Nzoungou, Naylor, Boitumelo Tsatsane, Curtis Finnigan and Patrick Douglas in what was a true team display with every player making a significant contribution.
The faithful can look forward to the trip to the Isle of Man to face Douglas on November 9 as a large contingent is expected to cross the water in support.
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