ON this non league Saturday Ashton's performance turned out like the day itself - after a bright start the storm clouds gathered and a miserable afternoon was experienced by the home side.

Trafford went into the game hindered by a seemingly endless injury list, which seems to have hit the 1stXV hardest.

Missing five regulars, MV knew beforehand that they would be in for a stern test against their age-old rivals.

Conditions were obviously a factor that affected both sides but MV were quick to prove their doubters wrong as they took the game by the scruff of the neck and got down to work brushing the endless drizzle to the back of their mind as they opened play and ran the ball whenever possible.

Ashton showed some early glimpses of what they were capable of but MV soon contained this and steadily created the platform for the backs to play off.

MV mastermind Andrew Hope broke down the blindside avoiding the tackling of the Ashton No. 8 Avery, and a neat inside pass to John Marflett saw the winger touch down.

As the game ebbed and flowed MV always seemed to have the edge and the Ashton try line was breached again as the ceaseless work of stand in captain Mark Hodgson was rewarded .

An exchange of penalties gave Ashton small reward going into half time with a 3-15 deficit to their nearest and dearest neighbours.

With some breathing space MV were now able to exhibit some good rugby skills in both solid defence and brazen attack.

The forwards commanded territorial rights and great credit should be given to veteran Greg Hawkins, wheeled out yet again from 2nd XV pastures and Tom Fairclough, having an extended break from 3rd XV duties in the second row.

It was left to the talents of Hodgson and Marfleet however to extend MV's score as both players piled on the points.

Hodgson again covered many blades of grass to appear on the shoulder of pedestrian winger John Phillips and take the final pass, to cap a good break from the Cumbrian, and get the touchdown.

Marfleet added the conversion and a further couple of penalties to complete the proceedings.

On this day Trafford were the ones having the bonfire party and unfortunately Ashton provided the Guy!

Trafford's 2ndXV sparkled against Ashton as the home side put away their local counterparts in fine style.

The impressive Andy Read at Stand off was the master of ceremonies as he kicked, ran and passed fluently throughout the game to create numerous scoring opportunities - most of which were well taken.

Sam Havler had a good game at hooker and Ben Belcher running in 2 tries was the pick of the backs in a convincing 37-3 home win for MV.

MV's 3rd XV were let down badly at the last minute as Ashton failed to turn out a team.

MV are pushing to get a 4th XV out and would love to hear from any social ruby players who cannot commit themselves every week but would fancy an occasional game.

The pressure is really on in Rugby Union and many clubs are down to fielding only one or two sides - Trafford MV is one of the few that still strives to give games to as many players as possible on a totally amateur basis - and still manages to field three regular sides with the potential for a fourth XV.

League rugby is back on the cards this weekend as Trafford MV visit the Fylde coast for the first time this season.

Thornton Cleveleys is the venue as the 1st and 3rd XV's travel and the 2nd XV entertain the seasiders.

MV will be looking to the return of Mike Peel and Chris Farmiloe from injury and will want to get a good victory to strengthen their grip on 2nd place behind Thorntons neighbours Fleetwood who will be the visitors to MV's MacPherson Park the following Saturday in a clash of the tablel toppers.

MV will be looking for a bumper crowd at this game as Fleetwood are renowned for their support both home and away.

Trafford MV will be holding a Bavarian Night on November 17th with Oom Pah Band and Bavarian delicacies as well as a plentiful supply of lager!

The Club would like to see many of its former members down to renew old acquaintances and would also welcome neighbours of the club to call in for a social visit.

We look forward to seeing you all.

Contact Wilf Dooley on 01942 884542 (h) 0161 333 4332 (w) for more information.