Sat 23 Oct 2021
YORK RI RUFC 17 -V- HALIFAX RUFC 7 23 October 2021
Report by Grayham Smith
It became clear , as half time appeared, that Halifax were in with a strong chance of victory as the forwards, particularly, began to dominate “ up front “.
They had started well by keeping possession for the opening 7 minutes with a combination of rucking and close attacks ; it looked as though they were “ up for it “ The scrummage looked powerful but the home backs were sharp and were able to get the ball wide , prompted by the ability of a strong centre to attack down the middle . The Halifax cause was not helped by centre Kyle Maude who took a significant knock to his shoulder and took no further part in the game .
Halifax , perhaps in expectation of victory , gave away too many free kicks which enabled the home team to gain territory down the slope . Two tries came within ten minutes in favour of York RI with one conversion – by the same tactic namely the ball thrown wide and the quick backs scoring on the right despite the sterling work of full back Nathan Donaldson . He put in splendid work and was unlucky to make over 50 metres before being tackled in the left corner . Half time was sounded but not before the powerful York centre fended off defenders and sold a gross dummy to score on the left .
However Halifax began to demonstrate their power and skills in the close forward play ; their tackling was good although the tendency to lose the ball in the close quarters did not help .
The second half was all Halifax. York scarcely put a foot in their visitors half ! Line outs and scrummages were dominated and Halifax profited by strong driving play with back row James Wass making much ground but all the forwards put in a great “ shift “, strong, direct and destructive – to the delight of the Halifax supporters.
A converted try was inevitable and it came from well worked play between captain Callum Bowmer, Brad Allan and Donaldson.
Back row man Ryan Hanley was dynamic as he drove over in the left home corner . The issue was whether he had put a foot over the touch line first ? The debate was lost but Halifax continued on or close to their encampment . York were a spent force at the end and rejoiced at the whistle.
Halifax should take credit for their performance and should instil the team with the spirit which will serve them in great stead in battles to come.
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