Coach Steve Barker had a full squad to choose from, with the exceptions of Chris Lambert (groin strain) and James Evens (unavailable).

Against a strong wind West took the game to their opponents, and pushed them back into defence. Chester proved tenacious and effective defenders, and despite their territorial dominance West could not break through, with a couple of good chances being foiled by the bounce of the ball. When Chester at last broke out they did so to good effect, a burst of pressure being rewarded with a penalty which was impressively converted. West continued to press however, and eventually drew level with a penalty of their own, converted by Rob Bellerby.

With a half-time score of 3-3, and with the wind now behind them, West started the second half confidently, and forced Chester back. The visitors again showed the quality of their defence, and West were starting to look slightly frustrated until two quick scores sent them clear. Another Bellerby penalty was followed by a try from front row Ross Wood, as the forwards won good line-out ball 5 metres out, and pushed Wood over for the try..

With 15 minutes left it looked as though West were going to pull away, but Chester rallied strongly, and forced West into conceding a string of penalties which drove Chester up the field. On two occasions they nearly forced their way over the line with good forward drives, and it was now West’s turn to show the quality of their defence. Despite some nervous moments they held on to win the game 11-3 and move into the last 16 of the Cup.

Team: Murray; Short, Dewhirst, Bellerby, Austin (Wager); Robinson, Dougherty (King); Greenwell, Norris (Richardson), Wood (Forrest); Robson, Hunt (Myers); Miller (Close), Dixon, Barker; Cairns.