Southern Nomads defeated league side Bowdon 12-7 to book a place in their fourth consecutive Cheshire Final.

Despite the miserable conditions, Nomads took an early 5-0 lead after Jonathan Crellin barged over.

Bowdon hit back just before half-time with a try from Sam Pace which Chris Hares converted for a 7-5 interval lead.

Harry Brereton crossed for Nomads early in the second half before Dan Bridle’s conversion put the 12-7 in front and, despite strong pressure in the closing 10 minutes, they hung on for the win.

In South Lancashire/Cheshire Division Two, Vagabonds beat Orrell 27-6 at Ballafletcher and secured a try bonus point in the process.

An early try gave Vagas a 5-0 lead but two Scott Robinson penalties gave Orrell a 6-5 half-time advantage.

Tries from James Clarke, Rob Martin, Josh Carine and Alex Callister sealed the deal for Vagabonds who now move up a place in the standings and still have a game in hand which could push them up into the top five.