The game was won and lost up front as a more experienced home pack held sway, putting Ponte on the on the back foot and unable to consistently take advantage of obvious superiority out wide. Ponte’s defence was outstanding on the day and kept them in the game to the end.

The game started well for Ponte as they scored early from a catch and drive through number eight Sam Millard. The conversion from Liam Kay into the wind from wide out was also worthy of mention.

From then on, the home side took control as they scored three converted tries without reply. It looked like a long day at the office but in full back Tom Papwoth they had an ace in the pack, as he skipped past numerous defenders for a converted try.

Seven points down at half time would have been a result but instead of seeing the half out with seconds to play, backchat to the referee twice resulted in been marched back twenty metres. This allowed Selby to kick to the corner for a line out which they converted into a try with a catch and drive.

Selby’s possession dominance continued in the second half and to keep them to one try was credit to Ponte’s defence. That try came early but Ponte responded with an individual effort from outstanding hooker Tim Pickergill.

Ponte’s substitutes made an impact with Joe Knox and Lewis Haigh helping to shore up the scrum whilst Linden Metcalfe was a real handful in attack. The boys pushed for another try to bring home a couple of bonus points, but it wasn’t to be.

Best for Ponte was Tad Nyanjowa and Pickersgill up front with Papworth and Sam Gilbert the pick out wide.

Ponte will be hoping for more luck with injuries and availability up front in the coming weeks, but the team spirt and work rate is exemplary and should always make them competitive. This Saturday they take on unbeaten league leaders Moortown at home.