NORTHWICH won the clash of the leaders at Moss Farm on Saturday.

Aldwinians, top of the North Lancs and Cumbria First Division, had been beaten only once this season and were confident of winning the EDF Cup clash but South Lancs and Cheshire League leaders Northwich, who have completed the first half of the season with a 100% record, were the better team.

Chairman Sam Naylor was the first on to the pitch at the end of an impressive performance to congratulate the players.

He said: 'No Northwich side have remained un-beaten at the half-way mark since the introduction of leagues in the 1980s. It's a magnificent achievement.'

The game was effectively over by half time. Northwich dominated from the outset and constant forward pressure was rewarded by Aldwinians conceding three penalties and the ever dependable Gary Bell showed no mercy and was on target with each attempt.

On the one occasion when Aldwinians did apply a period of pressure it was clear that the hosts' defensive line was solid. Towards the end of the half further Northwich onslaughts brought a fine try from David Khanyile which Bell converted from wide out.

On balance the second half belonged to Aldwinians but time and time again they could not break down the Northwich defence.

The Northwich pack were magnificent and every member of the Northwich back line also recorded a high tackling rate. Coach Danny Townsend was forced into using all four of his substitutes and they too made a positive contribution.

With five minutes to go Vuyol Pasiya, the South African hooker who has recently returned to North-wich for his second season and who had replaced Jed Hill was sin binned for handling in the ruck.

With two minutes of play remaining Aldwinians drove from a five metre lineout and were justly rewarded in a push over try claimed by Paul Thorpe. The conversion failed and at the next break down referee John Ibbottson blew for no side.