Recap

Dogs unable to keep track of Rams

A fire on the coach on the way down was perhaps a sign of things to come for Sale FC as they arrived late at Old Bath Road to take on Rams in an early top of the table clash.

The Rams started the game on the front foot but solid defence from Sale kept them at bay before the match settled into a pattern of kicking for territory, hoping to make the other team make mistakes.

Tom Walsh was shown a yellow card in the 16th minute for a high tackle, despite appearing to slip, but the Dogs survived the period with relatively little alarm.

The scoreboard remained untouched until the 34th minute when the hosts won a 5m lineout and then cross-kicked for Luke Graham to evade Ton Brady and touchdown. Fraser Honey added the extras. HT 7-0

Disaster struck for Sale immediately at the start of the second half as a pass just inside opposition territory was intercepted by winger, Tom Pozniak, who sprinted in unchallenged. Honey kicked the easiest of conversions. 14-0

The tide was flowing one way now and, just 3 minutes later, the home side extended their advantage through full back, Zachary Clow with Honey successful again from the tee. 21-0

Events took a turn for the worse in the 53rd minute when Ciaran Parker was shown yellow and, moments later, prolific prop, Max Hayman crashed over. Honey continued his excellent afternoon. 28-0

Try as they might, the Dogs could not find a way back into the match and Rams put the icing on the cake in the 64th minute when Robbie Stapley scored his 100th try for the club. FT 33-0

A difficult day for the boys in more ways than one but all eyes now turn to the clash with Rotherham next Saturday.