DO NOT be misled by the apparent high score of this first round defeat in the North West Counties Cup competition.

This was a very spirited display against opposition who play five divisions above Accrington and are currently top of their division.

Accrington played some of their best attacking rugby of the season which is hardly reflected in the scoreline.

They took the lead after 10 minutes following a chip and chase by Wilcock who scored in the corner.

Stand-off Burns had to leave the field with a hamstring injury and from then on Pilkingtons took command.

Accrington were never disgraced and with more luck could have had several more scores.

The side return to league action at Cadishead on Saturday.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.