Match report Under 16s v Tynedale

On paper, this was the toughest fixture of the season, and might be the last of the season for the current crop of U16s. The season threatened to peter off after the cracking semi cup final against Egremont, and coming on the back of a loss to Kirby Lonsdale. If it is to be the last, Carlisle saved the best for last.

Tynedale kicked off the match in torrential conditions and Richard Beckett collected and ran the ball back with interest putting Carlisle on the front foot and setting a tempo that Carlisle never dropped. On the 20 minute mark, good quick ball released Richard again who ran over from 20 yards out to score wide out on the wing. No extras were added. Tynedale responded well scoring two converted tries to end the half 14-5 up.

Carlisle started the second half well and were rewarded midway through the second half when some football style dribbling by Euan Forlow followed by good recycling of the ball released Jake Whittaker who was not going to be stopped from 5 yards out. Jake added the extras to bring the score up to 14-12.

Tynedale struggled to retain possession as the second half progressed with Carlisle's scrum being dominant all match and the line out starting to pinch Tyne ball. The pressure on Tynedale mounted and when they failed to clear their lines, a loose clearance kick was collected by Euan Forlow who showed great pace to race down the line and score from the Tyne 10m line in the Tyne corner. No extras were added. Both sides had chances to add to the score but failed. Final score Carlisle 17- Tynedale 14.

Tyne coaches commented that they had never lost so much ball at scrum time and were highly complimentary of the Carlisle forwards. Praise must also go to the five U15s who bolstered the ranks and did not look out of place. The luck of the Irish was also with Ben Duddy at line out time who won the air battle."

Reporter Graham Whittaker