Latchford Albion Giants suffered their first home defeat of the season in an absorbing clash as they went down 19-26 against league toppers Thatto Heath.
The hosts started strong and opened the scoring in the first five minutes when Josh Barnard crashed his way over. Dave Manfredi added the conversion then shortly after added a penalty before Thatto opened their account with an unconverted try.
A second Manfredi penalty and a late drop goal saw Latchford hold the advantage at half time 11-4.
In contrast to the first half it was the visitors, who started the second half strongly, hitting a purple patch with three quick fire tries to take the lead at 11-20.
The hosts never gave up and were rewarded when Liam Walker marked his comeback with a well worked try.
Manfredi converting and adding a penalty to reduce the deficit to a single point.
The game was well and truly in the balance and the next score was to be crucial. Unfortunately for Latchford it was Thatto who crossed for a converted try to ultimately seal the victory.
Fortunately Latchford’s fate remains in their own hands when a victory this Saturday against Blackpool Scorpions will see a home tie in the play-off semi-finals.
