BURY Broncos' second team came close to completing an unbelievable comeback before losing the Simon Annis Cup final 36-30 against Cadishead Rhinos.

It looked as if they would be in for a hammering when the Rhinos made the most of early possession to score five unanswered tries and storm into a 30-0 lead.

It was not until Broncos substitute Anthony Crumlish was introduced midway through the first half that they started to put pressure on the Rhinos line.

Crumlish darted over to start the fightback with a try converted by Jason Rawlinson.

And they added a second from the restart, scored by Jonathan Taylor after a pass from Sean Kelly. Rawlinson again added the extras.

A strong run by Joe Wilkinson set up a third Broncos try, with Liam Sixsmith collecting his pass to score and Rawlinson kicked his third goal.

And the Bury side moved to within one score when Crumlish fed the ball to Taylor to go over before kicking the extras himself.

At 30-24 the game was in the balance, but the Rhinos stopped the rot when their loose forward barged over with only minutes remaining.

The Broncos showed their "never-say-die" attitude, as Chris Lynch finished off a flowing move and Dan Kelly kicked the extras.

But they were unable to convert a handful of late opportunities to level.

The first team moved back top of Division Two in the North West Men's League after Widnes Tigers conceded their game on Saturday.

They travel to Oldham St Annes A on Saturday.

Anyone interested in playing, coaching, or volunteering should call Dave Kelly on 07412 802059.