An under-strength AEI were never really in this match against a well-drilled Birstall side. The pack was again missing a number of regular front row players plus Stevie Neal, who broke his toe changing a light bulb (strange but true). The Birstall pack dominated throughout and the AEI backs had little opportunity to run with the ball. There was no way back after conceding two tries early on due to sloppy tackling and AEI’s only consolation was the excellent food served by their hosts.
