Ponte ended their tough season with a defeat, as once again they gave a committed display and showcased a youthful backline with colts scrum half Ethan Grant on debut.

It did not look promising for Ponte as Blaydon scored early with a too easily taken try out wide from first phase ball. There was a feeling Ponte might get overrun but there was no need to worry, as the boys, lead by the outstanding Jack Beddis, came back strongly. Playing into a stiff breeze, full back Sam Gilbert put in a well judged grubber kick for pacey winger Josh Milthorpe to hack on for an try, converted by Alfie Abbot.

Ponte went on the attack with two scything breaks from Jack Beddis, the second which should have resulted in a simple try but unfortunately, a knock on ensued with the line begging. Ponte were left to rue this as Blaydon used the breeze to gain territory and a converted try under the posts. From the restart Ponte hit back, with evergreen player coach Craig Fawcett beating a host of defenders before allowing Milthorpe to put on the afterburners for a converted try and a half time lead.

The second half was pretty even but Blaydon found props defending out wide and good hands saw a score in the corner. Ponte replied with one of the moments of the season. Fawcett took a quick tap and Grant was on hand to scamper joyously under the posts for a debut try. As time passed by it looked like a narrow home win, but Blaydon managed a late try to seal their victory.

Best for Ponte was Beddis, Potts and Millard up front with Milthorpe and Fawcett outstanding in the backs. Despite defeat there was pride in the performance, especially in the juniors where it is believed to be the first time Ponte has played with two seventeen year old half backs in Abbot and Grant, who both did themselves and the junior section proud.

Having withdrawn from the Papa Johns Cup, this match marks the end of the season for the 1stXV. We would like to congratulate Harrogate RUFC who have gained promotion to the National Leagues as RNE1 Champions following their victory over Driffield.

We were looking forward to a home game for the 2nd XV in the South Yorkshire Cup, on Wednesday (10/04) but regrettably Barnsley cannot raise a team. The 2nd's will now face Doncaster Phoenix away on April 17th.

We look forward to the Presidents Dinner on Thursday (11/04) featuring Lions Legend Dean Richards