FIVE ALL IN THE SECOND HALF

The final score was 48-8 to Sale, with 43 of these points scored in the first half. Sale entered this game at blistering speed. Although Gogledd showed good ball retention and the ability to win fast ball from rucks, the message, which has been recurrent in every game against sides of this quality, is that EVERY mistake means a try. So there were moments last night when after exerting consistent pressure on the opposition try line, lost possession or turnover ball resulted in a try to Sale. This was not helped by the absence of key personnel in the pack, a sin binning for captain Will Bown and the loss of playmaker Adam Robson with a shoulder injury.

The second half was very different. Peppered by new recruits Gogledd began to play at pace with accurate and appropriate distribution. The effect was that the whole team lifted its game. Elfyn Roberts crossed for a try for the Gogs and a knock on when over the line prevented another. Using the wind Gogledd Cymru played the game in the Sale half and when under pressure defended well.