Pontefract have had a mixed start to the season having won three games from six placing them in sixth place ahead of this week’s game away at Morley. Morley’s record was similar, but they were sat one place ahead of Pontefract with two additional bonus points reflecting their edge in attack. Once again injuries and non-availabilities had a big influence on Craig Fawcett’s options in selection, but the team travelled in good spirits after last week’s win against Moortown.

Morley opened the scoring early in the game with a converted try from a rolling maul resulting from a line out. It wasn’t long before they struck again after clever work between the flanker and hooker at a line out caught the Pontefract defence flat footed. The missed conversion made the score 12:0 in favour of the home side. The visitors started to play some better rugby, but with the Morley defence playing on the margins of the offside law, they pressured Pontefract into a mistake to gain possession but surprisingly knocked on over the line. Morley added their third try afterwards after good work by the right wing. Papworth’s ankle tap tackle brought the winger down, but he was able slip the ball to a supporting teammate for a converted try. The score was now 19:0.

Spurred into action Pontefract had their best spell of possession. They handled well and pressured the Morley line despite some high tackles. Alex Wilson eventually managed to break down the home defence and crossed for Pontefract’s only try of the game. The conversion was added by Ethan Grant. Morley sealed their fourth try and a valuable bonus point before half time to make the score 24:7.

In the second half Morley continued to have the upper hand, although as ever the Pontefract lads gave 100% and played their full part in the game. Morley had to work for their two second half converted tries but ran out worthy winners by 38:7.
Meanwhile the 2nd XV were in action at Moor Lane against Driffield. The Wolds Men are always well drilled but the young players of Pontefract stepped up to the plate to record a memorable win by 22:17. Tries were by Harry Grant, Ben Mason, Daz Smith and Tom Chester.

Next Saturday both teams take a well-earned rest to allow some injuries to heal. On November 8th the 1st XV will be at home against Old Crossleyans who enjoyed a big win for the second week in a row, but Ponte will be looking to get back to winning ways. The 2nd XV will travel to York. Please remember that all men’s senior games will kick off at 2:15pm from hereon.

The members of Pontefract RUFC wish to send positive thoughts and prayers to our friends Anthony (Charlie) Chester and Rich (Vinny) Hardisty who are both unwell at the moment.