Pontefract RUFC 2nds v Huddersfield YMCA RUFC 2nds

Match report Pontefract RUFC 2nds v Huddersfield YMCA RUFC 2nds. Game played Saturday 21.10.17. at Moor Lane, k.o. 3.00pm.

Gusting winds and driving rain didn't present the best of playing conditions for this rugged encounter. Huddersfield 2nds won last seasons game and came to Moor Lane with added confidence. Pontefract made a surprise start when Andy Coleman shrugged off the tackler to break the gain line, the support was there but a delayed pass allowed Huddersfield defenders to pile in and suppress the early scoring opportunity. From this point in the game the visitors effectively controlled the game by using their big pack. Both sets of forwards battled hard, Huddersfields experience caused the home side to double their work rate in attack and defence. Scott Hawkins, David Webb, Carl Etherington and Dave Wright in the thick of it. The visitors made the most of the extra ball time and Harry Scoles scored out wide, no goal. Lee Bennett, Darren Smith and Brodie Mathews drove into the opposition tacklers but on occasions the ball came loose to turn defence into attack. Huddersfields fly half Gary Taylor selling a mis pass to sail in under the posts, no goal. Ryan White scored a third try for the visitors before a determined reply from Ponte 2nds freed up flying winger James Jenkins who raced into the corner for the homes sides first points. Dave Wright kicked a marvellous goal from the touch line side. 7-15. Huddersfield had the edge in the first half although Pontefract had on occasions showed their potential when the three quarters got their hands on the ball, Ross Shand and Rob Jepson putting in some bullocking runs. A determined Ponte 2nds grabbed the initiative from the re start and moved the ball wide. Young scrum half Linden Metcalfe worked his socks off around the field to keep play moving and the gaps appeared. Andy Coleman running in two try's with the support of young Toby Field. Ponte getting their noses in front. The home side commendably minimised on the unforced errors and produced the team effort. Wing James Jenkins went in for his second try by side stepping and stretching the defensive cover. Huddersfield could not get any solid possession. Ben Jones, Andy Tucker, Tom Field and Rob Smith playing to effect. The try of the game came at the close when the outstanding Chris Ohara sailed through a gap, latching onto a slick pass to score under the posts. Dave wright kicked the goal. The visitors battled on, but Pontefract didn't give any ground and Huddersfield were constantly under pressure as the home side finished the stronger. Final score 29-15. A great team win against a rugged and capable side. Both sides enjoyed the game which was well refereed in poor weather. Pontefract 2nds are away to Sheffield Tigers 2nds Saturday 28.10.17.