Doncaster Phoenix: Sam Bottomley scores hat trick in thrilling win at Sandbach

Doncaster Phoenix picked up maximum points on the road from an enthralling 43-39 win at Sandbach.
Sam Bottomley runs in one of this three tries against Sandbach. Photo: FSP ImagesSam Bottomley runs in one of this three tries against Sandbach. Photo: FSP Images
Sam Bottomley runs in one of this three tries against Sandbach. Photo: FSP Images

The game in Cheshire was tight until the last minute but a late try from winger Sam Nunn tipped the balance in the visitors' favour.

Captain Sam Bottomley scored a hat trick of tries, while Sam Pocklington, Jay Robinson and Will Burden were also also on the scoresheet as Phoenix secured back-to-back wins and moved up to seventh in the Midlands Premier Division.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Despite conceding a first minute interception try, Phoenix rallied and responded with three rapid tries playing some expansive running rugby on a perfect weather day and a good playing surface.

Sandbach stayed in the game and manged to stay in contention with two tries and a couple of penalties before half time.

After the break and with the slope behind them Sandbach attacked at will and with Phoenix reduced to 14 men due to a yellow card infringement the hosts ran in two tries and converted a penalty to move into a 36-22 lead.

Numbers were equalled up when Sandbach had a player dismissed for a red card offence and Phoenix were quickly back in the game with two tries from centre Bottomley, both converted by Seth Adams.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Despite another penalty for the hosts, Nunn ran in an excellent solo effort which was again converted by Adams.

Sandbach attacked right up to the last whistle but the Phoenix defence stood up and held on for the victory.

Wheatley Hills lost out 27-29 at home to Goole in Yorkshire Division Two.

Thornensians suffered their first defeat of the season in Yorkshire Division Three as they went down 19-10 at Skipton.

Â