AFTER last week's triumph Bolton Mets ARLFC came back down to earth with a bang against a strong well-organised side at Rochdale Mayfield.

The home side opened the scoring after just 10 minutes, even though the Mets had most of the early play. Bolton's defence looked sound with forwards Colin Crompton, Ryan Terry and Robert Bailey tackling well. However every now and then gaps appeared in the Mets defensive line which the Rochdale side took full advantage of.

As the half-time whistle approached, the Mets trailed 24 points to nil. Scrum-half Mark Dorning crossed the line only to have his try disallowed, and wingers Chris Brown and Phil Jones both came close.

In the second half Mayfields' superiority continued as they scored three more tries but the Mets didn't give in and strong runs from hooker Neil Walsh and full back Andy Bowling kept Mayfield on their toes.

With a final score of 42-0 to the home side things don't look too good for Bolton. With two new signings prop Stewart Rogers, playing his first ever game of league and young Scott May, playing his first open age game, things can only get better.

Coach Rick Brookes commented: "We were easily outplayed on the day by a better side. However, it doesn't make matters any easier when you have less than 10 players turning up for training."

The Mets are still on the lookout for new players to strengthen their squad, ring Rick Brookes on 01204 591887.