Wharfedale must have felt that they were not only suffering with the effects of the ‘Beast from the East mark 2’ but also a considerable threat from the northern cousins from Tynedale. The weather conditions were simply atrocious with and arctic like blizzard just before kick-off leaving the crowd wondering whether any kind of meaningful game would be possible. There has always been a strong comparison between the two clubs. Both have fabulous grounds, masses of farming heritage and are clubs that are entrenched in the local community. On the day however the contrasting playing styles were very evident. Although the pitch was very playable the lines marked with blue dye in case of snow not only signified what was to come but also the performance from the men in blue (and grey) to warm the hearts of the travelling support who had braved the elements to watch their team.

In truth the first quarter proved tough for Tyne as having mounted some earlier pressure of their own they conceded an early try. Although difficult to see from the other side of the pitch due to the swirling snow blizzard, the ball was kicked through by Centre Lovegrove and fielded by Winger Cicognini who converted his own try. Worst was yet to come as after some considerable pressure, the Tynedale pack displeased the referee who awarded a penalty try to Wharfedale. Tynedale however are made of sterner stuff, not allowing the men in green to settle and scored a try which started with a line out followed by 14 carefully built phases with Captain Matty Outson crashing over for an unconverted try. This was quickly followed by a fine solo effort by full-back James Spencer who found multiple gaps in the Wharfedale defence and the blizzard and steamed in from 65 metres like a runaway snowplough. Fly half Rogers conversion meant the halftime score read a more respectable 14 to 12 to Wharfedale.

The message from Coach Lawson at half time was a simple one; to keep the pressure on the opposition in their third of the field and corral them like a pen of Dales sheep. Using the howling gale as their friend the instructions were executed brilliantly by backs and forwards alike. James Spencer scored his second try and winger Guy Pike scored the bonus point try with fly half Rogers converting one and adding three penalties. Although the tries were scored by the backs it was Tynedale’s ability to change the point of attack utilising all 15 on the field that completely left Wharfe struggling to get any ball or decent field position. Centres Bramwell and Miller harried their position and carried like dump trucks. The Tyne forwards as a unit dominated their counterparts securing possession at significant parts of the game with Scott Powell, Johnny Cousin and Graham Dunn revelling in the Arctic conditions. The front and back rows worked tirelessly to quell any meaningful endeavour from the home team.

Five points on the road in atrocious conditions was what was needed and was ultimately totally deserved. This leaves Tyne in third place hot on the heels of second placed Sedgely and leaders Sale, and lurking with relish to steel at least a play-off spot or better should the other teams falter.

15. James Spencer
14. Guy Pike
13. Tom Bramwell
12. Will Miller
11. Oli Walker
10. Jake Rodgers
9. Matty Outson

8. Scott Powell
7. Nick Cairns
6. Louis Frankland
5. Graeme Dunn
4. Jonny Cousin
3. Ben Wilkinson
2. Jamie Blamine
1. Richie Elliot

16. Dan Lowdon 17. Aaron Smith 18. Joe Richards 19. Dav Cook 20. James Clark

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