Wallsend 55 BBOB 18
A tough game was always expected at Wallsend, with Brigade winning 10-7 at The Old Friarage, but the home side were in excellent form, catching Brigade on an off day to gain a nine try to three victory.
Wallsend went quickly ahead with two converted tries before injury to Brigade flanker Anthony Coverdale held the game up for thirty minutes whilst medical assistance was called. A third home try was added before Brigade created a sustained period of attacking play which saw Paul Craggs drive over in the corner for the unconverted try.
H/T - 19-5
Brigade again produced a good spell from the re-start with the forwards driving play into the home 22 and half backs Arnell and Gareth Foreman creating several opportunities for the threes. Brian Foreman challenged a well organised defence with a number of runs through the centre and from close range Paul Craggs went over for his second score. A Gareth Foreman penalty reduced the deficit to six points.
From this point Wallsend took control of the game with effective combinations between forwards and backs stretching Brigade's defence and bringing three unconverted scores. However a strong run by flanker Ian Edwards brought the try and might have just given Brigade a chance to stay in the game. But Wallsend continued to move the ball from all areas of the field and several individual runs created three further converted tries.
The result does not alter Brigade's fifth league place, a single point below Redcar who also lost on Saturday. Brigade play Whitby at home this Saturday and still have the opportunity to move into fourth place, depending upon their performance and the outcome of the Redcar v Seaton game.
The injury to Anthony Coverdale fortunately did not prove serious and he was able to travel home after hospital treatment.
F/T- 55-18