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Pontefract U11 v Hullionians U11 Play End to End Game

Pontefract U11 v Hullionians U11 Play End to End Game

Jim Cain23 Nov 2024 - 11:04

Pontefract 11 Tries - Hull Ionians 6 Hull humbled in high tempo humdinger

Pontefract 11 Tries - Hull Ionians 6 Tries
Hull humbled in high tempo humdinger

Perfect rugby conditions and a rare outing on the first team pitch, today’s game did not disappoint. Two high quality teams on show and one of those games where a mistake from either side, generally led to a try for the other. Unfortunately for Pontefract, it was their early error from a kick off which saw the Ionians flyer punish Pontefract with a cracking opening try. The Ionians defence was solid across right the line and Pontefract made a number of uncharacteristic early errors and it was clear that Hull were a level above the recent teams we’ve come up against. It took a few minutes for Ponte to find their feet and get into the game, but once they did, Grayson was on hand to then round off a flowing move to pull Pontefract level. The game continued to see-saw and Hull scored again following some strong carries from their big ball carriers. Toby then pounced on a loose ball to race half the pitch and level the scores again. Strong carries from Nate and Jake were met by equally big hits from Hull and a a turnover saw Hull feed their quick man who again scorched down the touchline. Pontefract’s own flyer, Toby Rigby, then nearly went the length but was tackled brilliantly in the corner. Pontefract’s momentum was rewarded, and Grayson pounced on a loose ball to scoot in and bring the scores level at 3-3.

The second period started with a bang, as Hull scored straight from kick off, but Pontefract dusted themselves down and started to put Hull under some sustained pressure, setting up camp in the Hull Ionians half. Frustratingly, Pontefract continued to spurn scoring chances and failed several times to get the ball wide to players in space. Hull however seemed to take every opportunity that came their way and against the run of play, then scored again to lead 5 tries to 3.

In a game that just threatened to slip away, Pontefract began to show some real fighting spirit and togetherness. Tommy took the ball from a penalty and tore through for a try that sparked a real change in momentum. Tommy then latched onto a flowing move to dot down again, bringing the scores level at 5-5. Pontefract seemed to really feed off Tommy’s quick brace, and massive tackles from Lucas and Nate put Hull on the back foot. Lovely movement both ways and good continuity at the breakdown led to a well deserved try for Lucas, taking Pontefract into the lead. Toby Macca then made it 7-5 to close a cracking comeback.

Pontefract made a great start to the final period, as Austin went flying down the touchline. Nate then started to show some serious strength, bundling over for a well earned try. Strong defence and a ruck turnover by Toby Rigby, allowed Pontefract to then move it wide for Austin to score a beauty, bringing the score to 9-5. Moments later, Dan Steadman then collected a kick off, beat 2 defenders, and fed Toby Rigby for a belter. 10-5. Hull came back into the game briefly, and scored from close range, only for Toby Macca to scorch down the touchline to the delight of the home fans, showing pace and strength to go 70m, and as Ponte spun the ball wide and went though the phases, Max Gamble capped a fine performance with a try, closing the game at 11-6.

Before the game, we spoke to the players about this being a very tough game, and one where we could really measure the progress we’ve made. We also asked players to step up, express themselves, and show courage and leadership. Games won’t always go to plan and there will continue to be teams that really test us. Early in the second half today, at 5-3 down, that test was playing out, and the response we all saw was something every single player, parent and coach should be proud of. Pontefract dug deep, showed individual leadership beyond their years and incredible togetherness for what is still a relatively new team. It’s easy to forget most of the team are still only 10 years old, but what is very clear is that this is a team full of brave young men who love playing for each other. Roll on Rochdale ?

Today’s awards went to Max Gamble, Toby Rigby, Toby Macfarlane, Tommy Marsden, Dan Steadman and Grayson Clift.

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