Newton Aycliffe 1st XV’s recent away game to Seaham made it 8 wins from 8 in Division 3 of the Durham and Northumberland League.
Captain Andrew Littlefair scored the opening try and James Thacker the second both converted by Luke Tinkler. Adam Gascoigne scored in his favourite corner and Thacker doubled his tally with a neat interception on the halfway line and left several defenders in the claggy mud. Half time Aycliffe led 24 – 0
The second half played out much the same as the first to be fair, Seaham showed plenty of hard work and aggression in the tackle area but Aycliffe dominated the line out, thanks to a great performance from second row Neil Morgan, winning the majority of the balls thrown in from both sides. Nick Coates made the most of all the ball created by the forwards giving Gaz Parsonage an armchair ride at stand-off where he opened the doors for the backs to thrive despite the soggy surface.
Luke Crossen scored the first try of the second half which was again converted by Tinkler. The backs began to run everything and great handling created gaps in the Seaham defence resulting in a further try for skipper Littlefair.
A few changes were made in the Aycliffe line up, Connor Blakey making his first team debut coming on at second row and Chris Richards coming on at inside centre.
Seaham scored a consolation try and very good it was too Seaham stand-off in a moment of Jonny Wilkinson like magic drew the Aycliffe defence to him before kicking the ball with unbelievable precision to the wide winger who caught it on the full to score the try. 36 – 5.
The Firsts weren’t finished yet, James Thacker smashed Seaham’s biggest player as he attacked the heart of the Aycliffe defence, he then drove him back five metres, ripped the ball off him, side stepped two defenders to glide over the line for his hat trick.
After more fantastic handling in the backs Luke Crossen crossed the line for NARUFC’s eighth try of the game. Nick Coates kicked the conversion. Final score NARUFC 48 Seaham 5
Aycliffe’s next match is this Saturday 7th Nov. at home to Chester-le-Street, KO 2:15pm.
Aycliffe Rugby is sponsored by Beaumont Grounds Maintenance and S-Cars.