Rosslyn Park’s 36-7 away win at Macclesfield saw them remain in second place, pulling four points clear of Fylde, three points behind the unbeaten leaders, Ealing.

However, the victory came at a price as top-scoring fly-half Tom Whelan was helped from the field after only half an hour’s play.

With first-choice number 10, Scott Sneddon, still receiving treatment for an earlier injury head coach Alex Codling faces an anxious week hoping for at least one of the two to be fit for Friday evening’s local derby against Esher, who have promotion aspirations of their own.

Codling said: "Macclesfield was a game of two halves. We lacked the required intensity and accuracy in the first half but there was a massive step up in the second which was what the boys knew was required and I was delighted to see them go and deliver it.

"We scored some cracking tries and I was particularly pleased with our urgency in defence towards the end of the game when the win was already secured.

"This Friday, we are back at the Rock against rivals Esher. As a player I loved evening games under lights and I know the boys are really looking forward to it.

"There was a great crowd and atmosphere in our last home game against Richmond and it would be fantastic to beat that on Friday.

"Last season saw two absorbing contests between the two sides and I am sure this Friday will be no different."

Friday’s National League One match kicks off at 7:45PM, and with rugby fans in town for the following day’s international, England v Australia, at Twickenham, Park are hoping to attract a bumper gate.

For the latest news out of Rosslyn Park, follow @ylgsport