It's since been billed on Facebook as an "excellent game of Lacrosse" but our Coaches would probably question this. True, Stockport were better and particularly clinical in front of goal. They defended brilliantly too and deserved the win - the damage could have been much worse had one of their key players stayed on the pitch following an early injury.

From our perspective we were uncharacteristically short of players, and some key players at that. That said, we didn't play with our usual fluidity straying off side more times than we have all season. Lots of possession but little end result - I suspect it will fire us up for the games ahead when the boys recover from colds and Scout camps!

It was a cold and wet start at home against Stockport. If Rick had shouted ‘unleash hell’ at the opening whistle the gladiatorial atmosphere would have been complete. Mellor started well and were quickly putting pressure on the Stockport defence and goal. Josh opened the score sheet assisted by Ollie. The Stockport keeper had to work hard to keep the ball out of the net on several occasions but it was Stockport who then scored on the break. Stockport got another before quarter time putting the pressure on Mellor.

The 2nd quarter was a fairly even battle with Josh levelling following another assist from Ollie who imposed himself throughout. Stockport pulled away again before half time.

Unfortunately the 3rd quarter was Stockport’s with no goals from Mellor and 2 more going to Stockport despite good defensive efforts from Mellor who were lacking Toby Halls.

At the start of the final quarter, the game seemed to be slipping away from Mellor and two more goals in quick succession from Stockport threatened a rout. George then saw red and replied with 2 fine solo efforts putting Mellor back in the game. Jack Royle further boosted Mellor hopes with a goal assisted by George. With about 10 mins left in the game and a 2 goal difference, it was conceivable that Mellor would go on to close the gap. Unfortunately it was not to be as Stockport then scored a couple of good goals putting the game out of Mellor’s reach. Final score Stockport 9, Mellor 5.

The shouts of "The Tide Has turned" echoed around Mellor Sports club but remember, there's always a really low tide before a Tsumani! This may well go down as a "good" defeat and the boys will quickly put this one behind them with Brooklands and Norbury at home in the next 2 weeks.