Newton Aycliffe travelled to the coast with a squad depleted by injuries from earlier matches in the season, to challenge Redcar 1st XV in a top of the table clash in the Durham Northumberland div 3. A baptism of fire was about to unfold. With the journey barely out of their system and despite Aycliffe having a slight wind advantage in the first half from kick off, Redcar showed their strength and class by running in several tries to take the lead to 36 – 0 before Aycliffe managed to win a lineout close to the Redcar line and drove on for flanker Phil Sangster to squeeze over for what amounted to be a consolation try. Redcar resumed their running prowess and scored more tries to finish the first half 43-5.
The start of the second half was delayed by 10 mins because the Referee had sustained an ankle injury but was duly replaced by an assessing referee on the side-line.
The disruption did not halt Redcar’s scoring spree who went on to add several more tries including a try by Aycliffe’s former coach of last season Ben Durrans, who returned to his previous club this season. The final score was a hurtful 83 – 5. Aycliffe kept on going throughout the match. With noticeable big hits put in by Dale Patterson, who also carried well and wing man Liam Clarey who played his first match of the season and he also put in some great tackles. Scrummage was also a decent feature for Aycliffe who held well against a big strong pack and it was a debut performance from Sam Demery who held his own in the front row. Aycliffe showed good spirit despite the onslaught of tries from a club who only 2 seasons ago were in division 1. If Redcar carry this momentum on it won’t be long before they are back up there, well done to them. Aycliffe will rebuild and look forward to the home fixture at Moore Lane after the New Year.
Aycliffe’s next league fixture is at home to South Shields on 19th October. The squad will be rested next Saturday probably. This will allow players to come back from injuries and get back to full strength.
Aycliffe will continue to welcome any new players, experienced or not, to their club. If anyone wants to try out during training nights go to Newton Aycliffe Sports Club on Moore Lane, training starts 7pm prompt. All will be made most welcome.
The plan is to reform a 2nd XV, namely The Newtonians, as soon as possible.
Aycliffe wish to thank sponsor HONEST JOHN, your continued support is much appreciated. Follow Aycliffe on Facebook.
