1st XV Struggle to Hold Back Old Crosselyans

Report: The Northern Echo

Darlington’s fightback at home to third-placed Old Crossleyans was in vain as they lost 32-31. Defensive frailties were evident from the moment the visitors scored a converted try after 45 seconds and they went on to lead 17-3 after 16 minutes.

Matthew Brown landed his second penalty then converted a closerange try by flanker Colin Rogers, but whenever Darlington got close in the first half Old Crossleyans pulled away again.

With the forwards playing well, lock Steve Taylor was driven over for Darlington’s second try to make it 24- 20, but a penalty and try just before half-time left them 12 points adrift after an entertaining first half.

The visitors failed to add to their tally, while a long pass from Sean Richardson sent winger Danny Anderson over for Darlington, then two more penalties by Brown had the gap down to one point with 13 minutes left. But they conceded too many penalties late in the game to be able to snatch victory.