PJ Cup QF 2nd leg

Boro 22 Rochdale 24 (agg. 50 -59)

Middlesbrough ended their season with a close encounter with Rochdale in the Community Cup quarter final. The game kicked off and virtually straight away Rochdale were on the offensive scoring a converted try after some strong straight running 0-7. Now something I had never seen on a rugby field: Boro attacked and scrum half Conner Foley dinked a lovely grubber kick through, which bounced off the corner flag, and crossed the line, allowing wing Harry Bryce to touch down. Ste Jones narrowly missed the difficult conversion 5-7. Jones had his kicking boots on nailing his second attempt at the posts, a penalty 8-7. There was plenty of endeavour from both sides, but no more scoring HT 8-7.

Boro were only 6 points down on aggregate after 120 minutes of scintillating rugby. Could they go all the way?

In the second half, Rochdale got on the front foot again and scored early on 8-14. Boro attacked again, and after some excellent drives, the ball ended up with Josh “Lyno the Rhino” Lynas, who crashed through 4 defenders to score 15-14. Rochdale did not give up and piled on the pressure, scoring from a try, conversion and, shortly after, a penalty 15-24.

Boro charged back at it, ands with time running out “The Rhino” crossed for his brace and Jones kicks the con 22-24. Boro needed 2 more scores for the overall victory. Try as they might they could not score again and the match, the cup run, and the season closed.

Middlesbrough 22 Rochdale 24 (agg 50-59).

Good luck Rochdale in the rest of the competition.

 

Wow what a season Regional 2 North Champions. The trophy was presented after the game. Only 5 defeats in the season (2 league, 1 YC and 2 PJ). A tremendous effort from all. In particular Player Coach Ollie Hodgson, try following that buddy.

We sadly lost our much loved, long serving Secretary Don Brydon on the 6th of April. This season’s for you Don

Much love.

Jabba #UTB