Buoyed by a recent streak of one draw and three wins, the lads were looking for another return against the opponents who last year showed little class with indiscipline on the field.

With a few late withdrawals, Rovers had a reshuffle also loaning Brogden to Billingham, who were short.

The game started tightly with resolute defending from both sides.

Chesterton again continued his fine streak of scoring with a pick and surge over the line. Rennie just missed with his boot.

Billingham had some fast feet in their lines and scored two quick tries, converting one.

In between all of this, Billingham had a player sent off for a string of various offences. To keep game even, we again loaned them a further player in Matthews.

What with the red, a drone flying over the pitch, 4 carriages on the Northern Rail train and Rovers losing - made for an odd 1st half.

Half time : 5 - 12

Billingham started strongly in second half, however, Rovers strength of tackling had disappeared and several players were giving away too many penalties. This allowed too much possession for the opposition, which lead to more tries.

Rovers also had their moments and scored a further 3 tries in the second half. Joseph Barker scored a maiden try with a strong drive over the line. Another from Chesterton for his brace. Dixon adding with a strong run through centre of the field having been thwarted with a similar run a few minutes earlier.

This final try came too late with time up.

Over the game we had other opportunities, but it wasn't to be.

Full Time : 24 -31

In summary :
>A pretty even game which was there for the taking
>Poor tackling techniques returned
>Too much possession handed back to the opposition through committing offences
>Scrummaging was strong with fair percentage won
>However, the lads are overall improving and are giving teams good games now, from being the whipping boys last year.

The coaches will be looking to improve further with games in January - we look forward to seeing even more support at our games in 2017.

Photo courtesy of Clifford Farrell.

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