Luctonians 3 pts Macclesfield 17-

ANY hopes Luctonians had of moving up to the Powergen National League Three (North) next season were shattered by a powerful, and streetwise, Macclesfield.

Having earned the right of home advantage for this one-off promotion clash by virtue of a better playing record Luctonians, runners-up in Midlands One, were urged on by some 1000 supporters.

However Macclesfield, runners-up in North One, had done their homework well, and aided by a disappointing Luctonians display, were always in control.

Anticipating the running game favoured by their hosts the streetwise Macclesfield pack dominated possession, and when Luctonians got limited ball, they were closed down quickly.

Centre Tom Davenport gave the visitors a flying start when he caught the home defence napping in the fifth minute to take advantage of swift passing and stride through for an unconverted try.

Any attempts by Luctonians to make headway against a stiff breeze were thwarted by an uncompromising defence, and they found it difficult to move out of their own half.

Prolific kicker Gary Bell punished them with two penalties as Macclesfield turned round with an 11-point advantage.

Bell extended the Macclesfield lead with a third penalty as the visitors kept tight control on the game.

Full-back Jeremy Wheadon briefly raised home hopes with a penalty, but with Luctonians seemingly unable to change their running game plan, Bell landed his fourth penalty as Macclesfield booked their place in the national league with something to spare.