The weather at Moor Lane could scarcely have been much worse for Saturdays much anticipated local derby. Torrential rain had challenged Head Groundsman Mick Caulfield all week, but he worked wonders and presented the main pitch in the best possible condition.
Selby have been on a similar journey to Pontefract having recently enjoyed the elation of promotion to Level 5, only to soon afterwards suffer the disappointment of relegation.

They are equally our old foes and old friends, and our fixture against them is viewed as being one of the highlights of the season. Small wonder the clubhouse was packed to the rafters before the game with ex-players and supporters of both clubs enjoying some proper rugby hospitality.

Thank you to our hard-working clubhouse team, and AM t PM for supporting this fixture. Extra special thanks also go to the U15’s who staffed the gate and served lunch to raise funds for their upcoming tour. We received so many positive comments from members and guests about them. They are simply a credit to the club.

Not surprisingly, the conditions dictated the nature of the match. Players were soaked to the skin, and handling was difficult, and both teams decided that kicking was their best option to gain territory.

The opening minutes of the game were tense, but Selby broke the deadlock with a Clarke try following a charge down and some neat football that covered a full fifty metres. The extra points were added by Bramley. Pontefract hit back with an unconverted try after good work from Joe Knox moments before half time to make the score 5:7.

Selby extended their lead with a second try as Wilson scored from a maul early in the second half. With twenty minutes remaining Wilson struck again for a converted try to make the score 5:19. Whilst ultra-competitive the game was perhaps one for the purists, but Pontefract continued to push Selby hard in the dying moments of the game to create the opportunity for Lucas Ketteridge to grab the final score of the game.

Pontefract have had the better of Selby in recent fixtures. Selby deserved their win in extremely difficult conditions, but Pontefract will be seeking revenge in the reverse fixture in the Spring. The pick of the forwards for Pontefract were Tad Nayanjowa, Stu Dedicoat and Tom Webley, whilst in the backs Ethan Grant, Will Cooke and Sam Gilbert impressed.

The party continued in the clubhouse after the game with entertainment provided by the fabulous Joseph O Brien. A great night was had by all!

The 2nd XV playing at Selby went down 28:6 to a strong side after a creditable and disciplined performance. Both the 1st and 2nd XV’s make the journey to the east coast to take on Scarborough next Saturday. Kick off 2:15pm.

We would like to take a moment to express our further condolences to the friends and family of our old pal Charlie Chester who passed away last week. He was a Pontefract man to the core and we will miss him immensely.

On a happier note we congratulate Tom Papworth and Ethan Grant for their inclusion in the Yorkshire U20 squad. At the same time four members of our U15’s have also been invited the train with the Yorkshire squad. The future is bright.

Remember rugby is a game for everyone – walking rugby takes place at the club on Tuesday evenings at 7pm. All welcome. Message us to let us know you are coming.