There were no signs of rustiness as Chester Gladiators made a winning return to action after three weeks without a game.
The Gladiators claimed an impressive 44-28 victory at Crosfields A in North West Men’s League Division Three, completing a double over the Warrington side and securing Chester’s first ever win at Hood Lane.
Veteran Paul Foster crashed over from close range to open the scoring for the visitors and pocket rocket Tom Roberts soon touched down to open up a 10-0 lead.
Crosfields responded with a converted score to close the gap to four points but prop Billy Forrester then burst through a hole to restore Chester’s 10 point advantage.
Replacement forward Andy Bowles showed an unlikely turn of speed to break from deep and offload to Jonny Rae to keep the scoreboard ticking over and Joel Gibbs’ accurate boot ensured the Gladiators went into half-time leading 26-6.
Crosfields were the first to post points after the restart but normal service was soon resumed with Lee Rusowicz and then Cameron Hogg going over for Chester to increase the lead to 36-10.
The home side then enjoyed their best spell of the game with two converted tries in quick succession lending to hopes of a comeback but that did not last long.
Rae raced clear to claim his second try of the game and Roberts then completed his brace as the Gladiators finished with a flourish to wrap up a deserved victory and move up to fifth in the table.
Chester are without a game this weekend but will be sending a squad to the inaugural Manchester Summer 9s at Hough End.
Gladiators U13s recruiting more players
Chester Gladiators newly formed under-13s team is looking for more players to join them for the current season.
The team, which is for boys currently in Year 7 & 8, will be playing friendlies and festivals through the summer ahead of entering the North West Counties League next season.
All levels of experience are welcome with training taking place on Thursday evenings from 6.15pm at The Cheshire County Sports Club in Upton.
The club also has teams for U7s, U8s, U9s and U11s with new players always welcome at all age groups. For more details contact 07512 355396 or email info@chestergladiators.com.
