Hartlepool BBOB 5, Newton Aycliffe 22
Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club travelled to Hartlepool to face Boys’ Brigade Old Boys in their latest Durham and Northumberland Division Three match.
The number of injuries and unavailabilities continued to cause a weakened squad, there was still enough class to give a feeling of optimism.
Initially, the forwards struggled against the much bigger opposition, but the Aycliffe line was never really threatened.
Good pressure from Drew Gibson caused a wayward pass, which was intercepted by James Thacker who ran the try in under the posts; David Gibson added the conversion.
Aycliffe were lucky to maintain the gap when BBOB missed a penalty kick straight in front of the posts.
Finally, Aycliffe began to get a bigger share of the ball and Gareth Parsonage took the opportunity to go on a mazy run past a number of defenders, when he was tackled just short of the line, Mark Makin was on hand to pick up the ball and drive over for his first try in Aycliffe colours.
The conversion hit the post but Aycliffe were now 12 points up, a lead the held to the break.
The second half continued with Aycliffe’s backs looking strong and a fine inside pop from David Gibson saw Chris Knight add a third try; again the conversion hit the post.
The home side now came back into the game and spent a long time camped in Aycliffe’s 22 before forcing their way over for a try from short range.
The moment of the match settled things, and gave Aycliffe the bonus point, Lewis McCormick used his speed and power to shred the defence, when he was held up, he laid the ball off to David Gibson who drew the remaining defenders and returned the ball to McCormick who crossed the line near the corner flag.
This win consolidates Aycliffe’s place in third place in the table.
Aycliffe are at home to Chester-le-Street on Saturday (March 10), kick-off 3pm.
Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club are sponsored by Workshop Supplies and Lift Right Forklift Training.
Visit the website at www.pitchero.com/clubs/newtonaycliffe
