Winlaton Vulcans RFC

To say that Winlaton were disrupted by the pre-match shenanigans was putting it mildly. They had set out for their last league match of the season at Yarm only to find themselves eventually depleted in numbers, as well as playing 7miles from the venue on a pitch in Acklam. The reason for the switch being that the Yarm pitch was unsafe and unplayable The 3pm kick-off turned out to be a 4.25 one, by which time some Winlaton players had turned back for home, leaving only 15 players. This was reflected in Winlaton’s attitude from the kick. Yarm were soon 14-0 ahead, when their centre ran through a non existent Winlaton defence for two tries. Soon after they had another runaway try, increased the score to 21-0. Winlaton eventually began to liven up their game and some fierce tackling by Luke Mitchell put some heart into the side. Kevin Allison kicked a penalty. Unfortunately they were then reduced to 13 men when Mickey Wharton (dissent) and Glen Page (foul play) were sin-binned. On 30mins Jamie Reddihough made a great 40mtrs break before feeding Tariq Albassam, who scored under the posts. Kevin Allison converting for 21-10. With the break approaching Yarm added 3more points with a penalty.

HT 24 – 10

From the restart Winlaton were in more control, with Glen Page, Andy Robinson and Scott Scullion leading the way but some sloppy work in the scrum resulted in the Yarm winger increasing the score 29-10 with a gift of a try. Winlaton came back with Graeme Clarkson giving the home side problems ably supported by his backrow. Tariq Albassam,’s chip over the Yarm defence saw Jamie Reddihough outstrip the home defence to touch down, Kevin Allison converting for 29-17. Yarm restored the points difference when they drove over for their fifth try. After some niggling play Yarm were reduced to 13 men when two players were sin-binned. Winlaton forwards upped the pace and Andy Moore finished off a solid forward drive to touch down.Kevin Allison again converting . With the end of the scoring came the final whistle as a blessing.

FT : 34-24 Lost

MoM Luke Mitchell