NEAB sneak a point at Brotherton

Brotherton Bulldogs v NEAB

A surprisingly dry pitch met the travelling All Blacks on their short trip to Brotherton Bulldogs. The match started at quick tempo as the journeying side looked to get in front early. The All Blacks thought that they had broken the deadlock after 5 mins when Jack Hodgson crossed only to be denied by the referee stating a knock on in back play. Player Coach Jack Stearman made sure that the All Blacks were the first to get on the score sheet after a trademark crash over. Tom Barron on target with the conversion to the left of the post. 0-6.

Brotherton hit back 8 mins later after a good sweeping move from left to right and rusty defending left the Brotherton centre to go over on the edge. The Brotherton 7 converting 6-6.

Brotherton would be the next on the score sheet with a converted try, 12-6.

All Blacks were to hit back 10mins from half time, Jack Hodgson not to be denied this time when clever play from dummy half gave him a score on his first outing out this season. Tom Barron again on target 12-12.

The All Blacks would go into the break with a slender lead after Brotherton conceded a penalty in front of their sticks. Tom Barron scoring 12-14.

The second half would prove to be a difficult spell for the All Blacks with them coughing up possession and a few silly penalties coming down to lack of discipline. The All Blacks held out well defending numerous sets on their line. Brotherton would be the next to score with kick over the top from the Brotherton centre. Brotherton converting to make the score 18-14.

The All Blacks managed to keep possession of the ball and built confident sets. After a repeat set gained on the Brotherton 20m mark Jack Hodgson found Winger Sam Cooper for him to score tight on the right touchline. Tom Barron missing the difficult kick, 18-18.

The last 10mins would be a to and fro as both teams looked to get to a position for a drop goal however, to no avail. The spoils shared Coach Jack Stearman had this to say;

‘The boys today showed great heart, after travelling with 13 and everyone lasting is testament to the work that has been put in over the last few weeks. It has been really good to get a run out after nearly 7 weeks off. We have set our standard for 2016 and looking forward to getting back to White Rose avenue next week against Stainland.’

MOM
1. Jack Hodgson
2. Jack Stearman
3. Sean Malarkey