Anselmians made the now familiar trip to Manchester on Saturday for the hugely anticipated Bowl clash with Manchester 2’s the only other side in Division 3 South with a 100% record.

The warm up went well ready for kick off only for disaster to strike as Manchester 2’s centre eluded tackles to put his team mate over 7-0 down. Being in uncharted waters for the first time this season Anselmians rallied with Ben Sadler kicking a penalty before great work down the wing released Martyn Brown to touch down with Ben getting the conversion. Just as we thought the tide had turned Manchester came back into the game with 2 try’s with one converted to lead 19-10. Anselmians rallied again and played some excellent rugby to give tries to Matt Brookes and Ben O’Connor with Sadler again adding the extras.

Half time came and changes were made which steadied up the scrum. Good pressure then led to Matty Dowler going over for his first try of the season with Ben keeping his 100% record with the conversion. Late on Manchester got another converted try to make it 26-31 giving a nervy last few minutes to the game before Anselmians took the win.

Manchester 2’s have been by far the best side we have come up against and it took a great effort from all 18 players to attack and defence to take the win against a spirited Manchester side. The squad played well as a whole with man of the match going to Ben Sadler who showed great vision and tackling in defence as well as a 100% kicking rate.

We look forward to doing it all again next week as we entertain Manchester 2’s at Vauxhalls in the league and attempt to increase our unbeaten run further.