After 17 minutes of battling for possession, back rower Sam long sliced his way through their defence. Chris Searle was close in support to continue the play before being tackled. Luckily his brother Michael Searle was not too far behind as he scooped up the ball and dived over to score.

Our second try came from right winger Connor White in the 30th minute. He demonstrated his raw pace in one of the best solo tries of the season. Blitzing past his opposite number on the half way mark he went onto step the Hartlepool full-back before diving over to extend our lead.

The 36 minute saw second rower Phil Mcareavey receive a yellow card. Down to just 14 men, Hartlepool were able to take advantage as they wrestled their way over the line in the 39th minute to score their only points in the game.

HALF TIME
Ponteland RFC 10 - 5 Hartlepool RFC

A positive half time discussion saw the #MightyMaroons enter the half with energy and determined looks.

Sam Long found his way onto the score sheet once again as the clock hit the 50th minute. He plucked out an overthrown line out ball and crashed his way over from just 5 metres out.

Just seven minutes later the #MightyMaroons were in once again as Patrick Holliday went under the sticks. A well executed set piece play saw Ryan Gerrard thread the full-back straight through a hole and go untouched to score.

Full credit to Hartlepool who proved physical throughout the fixture but a strong #MightyMaroon defence proved unbreakable as they were unable to add to their points tally.

FULL TIME
Ponteland RFC 24 - 5 Hartlepool RFC

Try’s: M. Searle (17’), C. White (30’), S. Long (50’), P. Holliday (57’)
Conversion’s: O. Reed 2
Man of the Match: Courtney West

#MightyMaroons