Stanley Rodillians RUFC 17 –27 Burley RUFC
Stanley Rodillians fighting to stave off relegation took on 3rd placed Burley at Manley Park .Many would expect the game to be one sided but Rods are still full of heart and put in an excellent team performance.
Burley started strongly and soon scored wide out with a try that they failed to convert (Rods 0 – 5 Burley). Burley’s early dominance continued and the constant pressure resulted in a penalty that was converted to extend their lead (Rods 0 – 8 Burley).
Rods were now finding their feet and taking the game to Burley. The continued good work resulted in a penalty to Rods and Adam Scrafton slotted the kick and Rods were on the score sheet (Rods 3 – 8 Burley).
As Burley again gathered momentum a handling error allowed Rods vice-captain Adam Schofield, to kick ahead.it was a foot race to the line which Adam Schofield won, Adam Scrafton stepped up to add the conversion and Rods had the lead. (Rods 10 – 8 Burley).
Rods looked like extending the lead further, but as they attacked in the opposition 22 a loose pass resulted in Burley fly hacking the ball 90 meters up field and scoring a try which they then converted. (Rods 10-15 Burley).
The first half was to end with more frustration for Rods, in the last minute of the half a technical error at the line out gave Burley a free kick, and they took full advantage and scored a converted try. The ref brought the half to an end and Rods were behind. (Rods 10- 22 Burley).
Rods did not let the frustration of the first half get to them and were soon putting Burley under pressure. Great ball control by both the backs and forwards moved Rods up the park. Substitute Wayne Dolphin just on the field, made a great break for Rods, his burst in to the 22 was ended by a high Burley tackle and resulted in Dolphin having the leave the field, whilst leaving his team in strong field position.
The Rods pack took control and was awarded a scrum near the Burley line. With great control the pack drove back their opposition resulting in No8 Paul Illingworth touching down for an excellent push over try. Adam Scrafton converted and Rods were back in it. (Rods 17- 22 Burley).
The game continued with further efforts from both side just falling short. Burley finally wrapped up the game in the last few minutes with a try that was unconverted. The final score (Rods 17- 27 Burley).
Whilst the game was lost, Rods had shown great strength and pride in the performance. Captain Adam Shires had lead from the front; Tom Tooley returned from injury and had an excellent game. The whole squad gave 100% and with performances like this, they have every chance of securing their place in Yorkshire 4 for next season, which would be a fantastic achievement.
Stanley Rodillians are really looking to develop a 2nd /Social team next season, we would really like anyone who wants to play or be part of our club to contact us. If you are interested please contact the club or just turn up.
www.rodillians.co.uk
Training nights are Tuesdays and Thursdays with Games kicking off at 3 pm on Saturdays.