Hoppers Edged Out By Sale FC

Preston Grasshoppers’ final pre-season game ended in disappointment as an excellent second half display from Sale secured a 28-27 win over the National 2 North side.

Pre-match favourites, Hoppers, began at a blistering pace with three tries in the first half, creating a 15 point lead; dominating both possession and territory.

A tap penalty in the twelfth minute saw prop Chris Gale burst over the line for the game’s first score. More strong forward play in the Sale 22 resulted the same way, with hooker Alan Holmes barging over the line to double the home side’s lead.

After Hoppers’ continual dominance in possession it was no surprise that scrum half Craig Aikman crossed the Sale whitewash from close range, extending the lead to fifteen points. However, after three missed conversions, Sale still remained in contention and began to work their way back into the game.

Sale began the second half the much sharper side as centre John O’Donnell sliced through the home defence within the first two minutes. Liam McGovern added the conversion, already cutting the home side’s lead to just eight points.

After some good handling skills from Sale in blustery conditions, and strong forward play, the visitors scored again on the fifty minute mark. A pick and go from a five metre scrum saw Jonathon Keep cross the line for Sale’s second. Another McGovern conversion left Hoppers only a point ahead.

Off the back of two more scrum moves and some disappointing Hoppers defence, Sale scored a further two tries, through Percy Alexander and Liam McGovern. A Following two conversions left the visitors leading 28-15, with just under quarter of an hour left in the game.

As the clock drifted into the final ten minutes, Hoppers regained some of their first half rhythm. A outstanding break from Phil Baines opened up the Sale defence for Jack Walker to score by the posts, which Sean Taylor converted.

As the full time whistle approached, Andy Irving touched the ball down for Hoppers from an impressive catch and drive. However, a very tough conversion was missed by Taylor, leaving the hosts a point shy.

With barely any time left on the clock, Hoppers managed to regain the ball from the kick-off but knocked-on on the half way line to seal the victory for Sale.

Preston were impressive in spells, however, ill-discipline and disappointing defensive display in the second half cost them the win.

Grasshoppers begin their National 2 North campaign next week with an opening fixture away at Sheffield Tigers.