EXPECTATIONS were subdued at Moss Farm as Northwich RUFC's latest test was a visit from promotion-chasing Blackburn.

As ever, Blacks were enthusiastic and committed to the cause but ultimately, the gulf in quality told yet again.

Blackburn arrived in confident mood and ready to take advantage of Northwich's inexperienced, and they duly ran in 16 tries to record a 98-7 victory.

There did prove to be one highlight for the home faithful, though, as Tom Husbands scored a try that was converted by Harry Naylor in reply.

Tom Clark and Chris Heywood among others produced some heroics in defence as Blackburn dominated, while Aaron Collins continued to be a growing presence within the side.

In a wider perspective, Northwich can look upon a weekend in which they were able to field four senior teams for the first time this season as a real achievement as they aim to build for the future.

In terms of the first team, their next North Premier assignment sees them make the short trip to neighbours Lymm on Saturday.

Squad: Tom Wilson, Mark Thompson, Ben Ridgway, Josh Warburton, Rory Williams, Chris Heywood, Aaron Collins, Tom Clark, Harry Naylor, Anthony Keller, Kyle Clarke, Scott Davidson, Richard Dale, James Wood, Tom Husbands, Jack Baille, Sam Naylor, Oliver Aston