An inspired performance from Raiders tipped the scales in a tightly fought and extremely enjoyable contest in Sheffield on Saturday, with the Tyne outfit running out deserved 28-42 winners.

Raiders Captain, Jacob Brown, led the way yet again with not only a rock solid personal performance but also a strong guiding hand for the team which is fast becoming his trademark. Brown was ably assisted by the outstanding Ross Cooke at full back whose abundant skill as an on field coach & mentor to others paid dividends.

Back Row Forward Will Jonas selflessly played the full 80 minutes in the unfamiliar 11 shirt, guided expertly by Cooke. Jonas capped his day in the closing stages with a terrific piece of jackalling deep inside Raiders' 22, to cage the Tigers and ensure the win.

Raiders dominated possession from the outset and Cooke's intricate interplay with the impressive Alex Dryden (13) and showman Seamus Hutton (14) made for great viewing in the first half, at times leaving Tigers chasing their tails. Midfield was ably marshalled by the immovable Will Miller, returning at inside centre with a strong defensive display in his first outing since pre-season. Fly half Cam Grant shone brightly in open play, running great lines and confounding the opposition, in addition to providing a kicking masterclass as he converted Raiders' six tries in blustery, testing conditions. Grant's blossoming connection with fellow half back Jake Turnbull was in full view once more, with Turnbull yet again stamping his authority on the game as a talented 9 with a big future.

Jamie Hiles returned to action at flanker after a long, 13-week layoff and stood tall for the full 80 minutes. Jamie was partnered by young Tynedale debutant Ayden Fletcher who performed admirably from start to finish and was commended at the final whistle by one of a powerful & experienced Tiger who had been the surprised and impressed recipient of Fletcher's attentions during the game. Tynedale’s 2nd row was immense. The incomparably dependable Richard Dunne showed again why he is so valuable to Raiders, while Callum Burke laid out his credentials as a first class lock. Burke was exceptional in both defence and attack and demonstrated marvellous mobility. Burke was everywhere, all at once!

Leading the charge, props Owen Loughead and 'Jacktrick' Bullen (yes, he bagged three of Raiders' six tries) dominated the scrum and gave Raiders the platform for victory. Hooker Ed Craney completed the impressive trio and his clinical throwing ensured Raiders' lineout dominance for the whole match.

Last, but by no means least, Raiders' solitary replacement for the day deserves special mention. Rory Craney cancelled all plans at a moment's notice to board the bus and be Raiders' go-to man. Craney Senior came on to close out the game, packing down alongside Craney Junior whilst octogenarian dad/grandad Hedley watched on from the touchline. It was another special moment, in keeping with Tynedale’s rich family history. Hedley was in fact once a Percy Park player... but we'll forgive him that today! Go Team Craney!

Tries: Bullen (3), Cooke, Dryden, Grant
Cons: Grant (6)

Ian Hiles