Colne and Nelson 5 Birchfield 27

COLNE and Nelson managed to beat the elements but could not beat high-flying Birchfield.

Luke Edwards scored Colne’s only try of the match as the home side battled hard against a team in the hunt for promotion.

The hopes of a shock victory weren’t helped as they lost a number of players to injury – included prop Adam Padgett who ended up in A&E with a knee injury.

It meant Birchfield – lying in second place behind leaders North Manchester – have completed the double of the Holt House side, having won 31-7 earlier in the season.

Colne were in buoyant mood going in to what was always a tough clash having won 39-5 at Carnforth in their last game.

Colne have another tough encounter this Saturday when they travel to leaders North Manchester.