Malton and Norton 2nd XV 17-34 Pontefract RUFC 2nd XV

Match report Malton and Norton RUFC 2nds v Pontefract RUFC 2nds.
Game played Saturday 10.10.15. At Malton, kick of 3.15pm.
Pontefract 2nds put in a superb effort away at Malton and deservedly won the game. The visitors having the upper hand in both attack and defence for the most against a Malton side who competed until the final whistle and always threatened when in possession. Pontefract got off to another good start and held onto the ball, No 8 John Fradgley going close , however scrum half Dan Wheater kept the ball alive and fly half Richard Hossack rounded the cover to score the try, the ball striking the upright for the extras.
Malton replied with a series of drives at the visitors defence and although initially the tackling repelled the attack, prop Simon Thompson buried over to score his sides first try. No goal. First up tackling let in Maltons quick second try from Dougie and Pontefract were 12-5 down. The visitors re grouped and hooker Andy Smith held on to possession and a series of inter passing with Hosai ,John Fradgley , Andy Coleman finally passing the ball to fly half Richard Hossack who scored his 2nd try under the posts. 12-12. Pontefracts overall rugged tackling produced more ball time and Pontes purple patch continued when scrum half Dan Wheater sniped through a gap to score an excellent try which was goaled. Pontefract were awarded a penalty when Malton went off their feet at the breakdown, The visitors pack excelled with James Griffin, Andy Smith and Richard Armstrong in the front row Jim Cain and Aitor Gonzalez providing the bulk in the second row. The penalty scrum effectively tied in the defence and fly half Hossack fed Hosai who went in for the try, no goal. half time score. 12-24. Malton were still breathing down the visitors neck and Pontefract had to work hard, well led by Scott Hawkins. Hosai going close from the off but frustratingly the off load went to ground. Malton wanted the win and narrowed the scores with a try from number 4 Allie Fothergill. A crucial point in the game saw Pontefract up their determination Hosai fed an advancing attack on the home side try line, Scott Hawkins taking the pass and crashing over for the try. No goal.17-29. The resilient Malton held onto possession when Pontefract inexplicably lost some of their attacking shape. Terrific team defence cannot be ignored, a massive tackle from winger Stuart Dedicoat drove the home side prop into touch at a crucial point along with the able Hossack putting in some belting kicks to clear his lines. Scrum half Dan Wheater had the last word scoring a trade mark try evading the tacklers. Final score 17-34. A magnificent team effort, a game that the home side expected to win. Every Pontefract team member being involved through out. A tough hard game but enjoyable, the bench keeping to the game plan when returning to play following attention. Richard Hossack was man of the match, John Fradgley leading by example a standout along with Exciting prospect Andy Coleman. Two try's Dan Wheater must be on the list along with Liam Wiggins at full back,grafters Ellis Burke and Billy Coleman. Liam Tennant making another try saving tackle.
Pontefract 2nds welcome new prop Hugo who will be a good addition to the side. Pontefract 2nds are at home to Barnsley 2nds Saturday 17.19.15. All welcome.