Crewe & Nantwich RUFC secured an epic victory over Winnington Park to be crowned Cheshire Bowl winners.
It’s the first time for 31 years Crewe have beaten Winnington, and John Ferguson who captained the 1st XV to that last victory in 1982 was in the crowd.
Winnington, who were favourites after defeating Crewe & Nantwich twice in the league this season, started strongly as the forwards produced a series of driving mauls.
But Crewe’s pack including Kirk Robinson, Killian Roche and captain Niall McGregor competed fiercely to quell the pressure.
And it was Roche who broke free to create room for a pass to Tim Cowap who beat the fullback for a free run to the line under the posts.
Little slotted the conversion for a 7–0 lead to the delight of the large Crewe crowd at Wilmslow.
Winnington hit back had pressure told when the referee issued a yellow card to Andy Pemberton.
Park took advantage with a catch and drive from a lineout gave them an unconverted try for 7–5.
Second row Phil Alcock and James Guy fought hard to weather the Park storm until the return of Pemberton.
And Crewe centres Joe Gammage and Mike Greatbanks continued to cause problems in the Winnington defence.
Crewe won a penalty which Little calmly slotted over despite the strong wind to make it 10 -5 at half time.
After the break Crewe turned the screw and backline pressure released Toby Ward who raced clear to score and give Crewe a 15–5 lead.
Park hit back soon after with a converted try but Crewe took a six-point lead when a dangerous tackle gave Little the chance to kick a penalty for 18-12.
Park piled on the pressure with their forwards in the Crewe but again The Vagrants clubs stood firm.
Man of the Match Aaron Barker was harshly given a yellow card late on, and Winnington piled over.
The referee at first said the ball was held up but reversed his decision after consultation with the linesman to award the try for 18 -17.
But the conversion slipped by the posts and Crewe held a one-point lead in the final few minutes.
Crewe’s pack battled to win possession when the scrum went through 90, and cleared their lines to play out time in the Winnington half and secure a memorable win.
(Picture and words courtesy of Pete Curtis-Brown)
Well done Aaron