Tynedale Raiders 60 Percy Park Lions 24

Tynedale Park, Corbridge
11th November 2023

Tynedale Raiders 60
Percy Park Lions 24

In an electrifying clash on the rugby field, the Tynedale Raiders hosted the Percy Park Lions this weekend, setting the stage for a memorable encounter that transcended the mere pursuit of victory. The proceedings kicked off with a moment of silence, paying homage to Remembrance Day.

The Raiders, bolstered by the return of stalwarts like Joe Richards and Tynedale fan favorite Andy Murray, who heroically stepped in at the last minute, faced off against a resilient Percy Park side. The pre-game dynamics forced both teams into an agreement for uncontested scrums due to unforeseen front-row shortages on the Lions' side. Yet, this adjustment did little to dampen the spectacle of exceptional rugby that unfolded.

Right from the kick-off, it was evident that both teams were hungry for a fierce battle. Percy Park, in a dominant display, pinned Tynedale in their own half early on, with their forwards exerting pressure. The Raiders' fullback, and man of the match, James Ferguson, showcased his defensive prowess with a crucial try-saving tackle just 10 minutes into the game.

The Raiders, undeterred, broke the deadlock with a burst of speed from scrum-half Sam Harrison, who capitalised on a turnover ruck. Seamless interplay between Will Jobling and James Ferguson set the stage for winger Seb Jansen to open the scoring, with a successful conversion to follow.

Minutes later, the Tynedale backs orchestrated another impressive sequence, culminating in a try by Adam Todhunter on the opposite wing, albeit without the accompanying conversion. Percy Park, however, responded with a try, narrowing the score to 12-7.

The Lions fought valiantly, delivering commendable tackles in the midfield. Yet, when possession changed hands, Tynedale's robust defence, led by center duo Rory Dixon and Aaron Murray, alongside flankers Oliver Hillary and Will Jonas, proved impenetrable.

Seb Jansen's hard tackle in the midfield created an opportunity that James Ferguson exploited, securing Tynedale's third try. A dominant period in the forwards ensued, with captain Harry Askwith and veteran Rory Craney making significant ground. The relentless forward assault, featuring strong ball carries from Ben Potts and Joe Conley, allowed flanker Joe Richards to drive over the line, the try smoothly converted by Will Jobling.

Tynedale continued their onslaught, adding two more tries courtesy of James Ferguson and Joe Richards, concluding the first half with a commanding 36-12 lead.

The second half witnessed the return of young winger Nathan Abrams from injury, injecting immediate impact with robust defensive tackles and a spectacular 30-meter sprint down the left flank for a try. Despite Percy Park's spirited effort, they faced a relentless Tynedale response, with another team try finished off by Adam Todhunter.

In a testament to the Raiders' depth, substitutes Josh Schollick and Alex Anson, both from the Centurions, made their Raiders debut, leaving an indelible mark. Josh's impeccable tackles and Alex's clinical try under the posts showcased the team's quality.

Percy Park battled on, securing another try to keep Tynedale vigilant. A couple of strategic changes, including the introduction of Andy Purves, bolstered the Raiders' pack. Purves, with his “disruptive” presence, added to Tynedale's dominance in the rucks.

The match's final act featured a brilliant individual try by young Nathan, intercepting a pass between Percy Park centers, sealing Tynedale's triumph with a resounding victory.

Despite the lopsided score, the Lions displayed resilience, dominating phases of the game. However, every Tynedale player found their rhythm, culminating in a flawless team performance by the blue and whites.

Full-Time 60 - 24

Rob Earnshaw