Glasgow Rugby League vs Open Age

Glasgow

20

Open Age

44

Match report

Chorley Panthers headed north of the border this weekend to take on Glasgow RL in their second and final pre-season fixture of the 2025 campaign.

Right from the kickoff, the Panthers set the tone, gaining metres with ease and pinning Glasgow deep in their own half. The early pressure paid off after just ten minutes when Nathan Groom crossed the line to give Chorley a 4-0 lead.

Despite a strong start, Glasgow responded well, gaining more possession and playing some expansive attacking rugby. Their efforts were rewarded with two quick tries, turning the game around to lead 10-4 after 17 minutes.

Chorley, however, stuck to the basics and focused on completing their sets. That patience soon paid off when veteran Michael Jessiman weaved through the Glasgow defence to score, with Daniel Croniken converting to level the score at 10-10.

With confidence growing, the Panthers took control of possession and advanced deep into Glasgow territory. Captain for the day, Dean Mattinson, powered through the defence to restore Chorley’s lead. Croniken added the extras, making it 16-10.

Chorley kept their foot on the gas as halftime approached. Mattinson once again proved unstoppable, storming over for his second try, with Croniken converting. In the final moments of the half, a tiring Glasgow defence was exposed as Nathan Groom read the play perfectly to grab his second. At halftime, Chorley led 26-10.

Second-Half Battle

The second half saw Glasgow tighten up defensively, turning the game into a real arm wrestle. Both teams showed resilience, with big carries and heavy collisions across the pitch. Glasgow eventually found a breakthrough, closing the gap to 26-14 and giving themselves hope.

However, Chorley quickly regained control. Daniel Croniken crossed for his first try of the game, restoring a strong lead for the visitors. Moments later, Nathan Groom continued his outstanding pre-season form, completing his hat-trick. That’s now five tries in two games for Groom, a fantastic effort heading into the new season.

Despite trailing by 22 points, Glasgow kept battling and were rewarded with a fourth try, bringing the score to 36-20. But the Panthers remained composed, maintaining their defensive shape to keep the hosts at bay. Their defensive efforts soon turned into attacking momentum, as Croniken powered over for his second try of the game.

Even with the match winding down, Chorley weren’t done yet. In the final set of the contest, they pressed forward once more, taking advantage of a tiring Glasgow side. Croniken sealed his hat-trick and the victory, rounding off a 44-20 win on the road.

Looking Ahead to the Season

A huge thank you to Glasgow RL for their incredible hospitality over the weekend. The trip provided not only valuable game time but also a great bonding experience for the squad, giving them a boost ahead of the 2025 season.

With both pre-season friendlies now complete, the Panthers can approach the new campaign with confidence. Their first competitive fixture of the year sees them travel to Waterhead Warriors on March 8th, where they’ll look to build on their strong pre-season performances.