The following story is a complete work of fiction by Andy Bygrave, no actual games were undertaken by any players as they are all abiding by the governments health regulations.

Today was due to be the Congleton RUFC Vets last game of the season so as the Grand National is running a virtual race next Saturday, the below will be our last "virtual" game.

The 28th March 2020 is a date that will live long in the memories of the Congleton Veterans. This statement flies in the face of medical opinion around dementia and rugby players.

However, this is a team built around a desire to make the world a better and healthier place.

Director of Rugby, Darren Cashmore, had once again assembled (online) a band of enthusiastic players ready to challenge the might of Trentham 3 XV.

The team were confident, and this was enhanced with the news that talismanic scrum half, Andy Bygrave, was declared unfit and unavailable to play.

The squad assembled at the clubhouse. Here the team bonded in their usual fashion and took on board a variety of fluids designed to enhance performance or techniques.

Within minutes of kick off the veterans trusted referee had to pull out of officiating the fixture.

Mike Somers had pulled his hamstring whilst pulling up his socks. After a few frantic minutes of phone calls a referee was found.

Nigel Owens agreed to stand in and the teams were ready for the game to begin.

The match began with Congleton playing into a fierce wind. All of the players were keen to impress.

The sideline was packed with highly qualified observers making judgment on potential player of season.

The nifty handling skills of the front row were soon evident for all to see. Kirkham, Coombes and Whittacker, as well as being a name of a solicitors, combined well to give Congleton the dominant scrum the team relied on for their brand of beach rugby played in the mud.

The power of the second-row partnership of McNichols and Lea gave Congleton much needed lineout ball.

This presented the back row with great opportunities to exploit defensive weaknesses. It was not long before Captain Cashmore scored the first try of his hat trick.

Trentham responded and the returning John Woodman turned back the hands of time to produce a defensive masterclass.

This must impress the watching Warren Gatland who was scouting for potential Lions squad members.

The first half drew to a close with Steve Vandersteen controlling field position; spraying the ball left and right with confidence.

He was constantly in the ear of the referee offering positive advice, observations and tips.

Mark Armitt left the pitch at half time with his usual concussion after playing his usual combative style and unique dancing style.

Further changes allowed Whittaker, Evans and Thorneycroft onto the pitch. The fiery combination of Kirby and Gear now entered the fray along with Richard Hogg & Salty.

Dakin, Jones and Rich Burkard showed their commitment after the Captain insisted, they play the whole match to develop their match fitness in time for the tour.

As the match progressed the substitute bench was active with team members interchanging in order to observe social distancing in line with Pubic Health England's guidance.

For the final 10 minutes the Congleton team was made up entirely of those who had served in HM Forces.

The cap badges and medals on display reminded everyone of a night in the British Legion.

The final whistle was blown, and Congleton were victorious, and their unbeaten run continues.

They stand every possible chance of being selected a team of the season at the club dinners and the BBC Sports Personality of the year team as well.

Discussion in the clubhouse following the match centred around the possibility of a HM Forces v Civilians match next season.

Team Captain and director of Vets rugby Darren Cashmore said: "I would welcome the chance to organize such a fixture. The way everyone played today was beyond my expectations.

"The team could only have been improved by the addition of Andy Bygrave. I am sure the rest of the team would agree he is a talisman and other things."