RU: It was not a happy Easter for Macclesfield rugby.

The senior side contrived to lose a game at Chester in which, territorially at least, they had the better of play but simply could not convert pressure into points.

This, combined with static handling and turned over ball, meant that the Vicars Cross 'hoodoo' goes on.

We have not won there since Chester were promoted into North One two seasons ago and must now await an opportunity next season.

The overall discipline of the side was good - we were awarded 21 penalties and gave away just eight - and I suspect in another game we may just have seen a penalty try awarded.

It was just a pity that the excellent spring weather did not bring a victory that would have closed March on a high.

Instead we have to travel to West Park St Helens this weekend to play a side on top of their game.

They defeated table-topping Halifax 22-21 last Saturday. The position at the top of North One is now getting ever more tight with Halifax, Hull and West Park fighting it out for a place/places in the National leagues next season.

Hull continued their push with a 37-24 victory over a Bradford side that may be too late to stave off relegation, with Middlesbrough and Wigton almost certain to leave us for North Two as well.

Elsewhere at the club, the second XV had a hiccup. Due to some serious misunderstandings, they did not travel to Aldwinians, who were none too happy. The Development XV and Vets both recorded good victories.

On my return to Priory Park on Saturday, it was clear that much hard work has already been put in to see that the England v Wales schools international to be played this afternoon (Wednesday 3pm) will be a success.

The exterior of the clubhouse, stands and pitch look excellent.

The flags of England, Wales and MRUFC up on the mound will fly - sadly at half mast - for the game.

All it needs now is a fine day and a bumper crowd, so if you are still undecided, just get along and enjoy the afternoon.

This Sunday (April 7) don't forget that Priory Park will stage the national quarter-final of the under-20s championship when Cheshire (led by our own Phil Macey) take on East Midlands for a place in the semis.

That game also kicks off at 3pm, so make the effort to get down after your Sunday roast.

On Saturday and Sunday, there will be a group of Macclesfield regulars unable to support the weekend games, as several parties are heading for Italy and a weekend in the Eternal City.

Rome is where Italy and England will close what has been a disappointing Six Nations for Clive Woodward's men.

Twenty-two former Stags and their wives make up one trip and we are looking forward to the visit - despite a 5am start from the club on Thursday morning to get to Birmingham Airport for the flight.

It means that for next week at least there will be a stand-in 'Clubman' to put the words together on my behalf.

One last item - the Thwaites Cheshire Cup Final against Birkenhead Park on Sunday, April 21 will be played at Chester Rugby Club at 3pm.

So note that in your diaries, as this is one trophy that cannot escape our grips this season. Watch this column for more.

Macc RUFC games this weekend:

1st v. West Park St Helens - League (away) 3pm.

2nd v West Park St Helens - Merit (home)

Development XV and 4th - TBA

Vets v. Marple (home)