Ben Rhydding 1 Bowdon 2nds 3
BEN Rhydding found this a difficult match and, with key players injured and others unwell, they looked unconvincing for large parts of it.

The Premier Division clash was stodgy and stagnant in the first half with little penetration from either side.

Once again, Rhydding had some excellent chances but did not convert them. Bowdon sliced through the defence too easily to score their first goal from the top of the circle.

Goalkeeper Will Rutter comfortably denied Bowdon’s corner threat but Rhydding continued to give the ball away cheaply.

There was nothing that Rutter could do when faced with two men, the second one having arrived completely unmarked in the circle to put the visitors 2-0 up.

Rhydding had a late flurry as the first half closed, Andy Harkins putting young England international Matthew Ramshaw through, and Ethan Hodson made a great effort at a brave deflection, which was smothered by the Bowdon keeper.

In the second half, Rhydding continued to defend penalty corners well.

Myles Locke was shutting Bowdon down early and Neil Sugden was courageously clearing up any loose balls.

An unresponsive Ben Rhydding looked to tire towards the end of the game and a ball given to Bowdon from the home team’s outlet gave them an easy opportunity to tap in a simple goal for number three.

A pleasing consolation goal came late in the game for Rhydding, Ramshaw getting an expert touch to deflect the ball high into the net.

However, such a mediocre performance from a side whose backs are to the wall is very disappointing.