This first round County Cup tie seemed like a big ask against opposition from the English Rugby Union League Pyramid in the final game before the Christmas break. However, encouraging recent form, atrocious conditions , and home advantage saw an entertaining game played in great spirit with the result in doubt until the final whistle.

Gosforth were a well drilled team, always threatening and scoring a penalty, four tries with three conversions to be in touch at all times.

The home front row forwards, Michael Ramsay, Robbie Binks, James Doody and James Brown put in a huge shift in both tight and loose play. This allowed the well-balanced back row of Kael Horton, Will Roberts, Henry Barnes, and later Billy North-Lewis the freedom to forage and link as well as attending to their defensive duties.

Neat play between half-backs Andy Harvey and Allan Hyslop saw flying winger Jack Denham chase an astute kick and win the race to touch down. Josh Schollick was close with a similar effort before Hyslop was able to scoot home after good work from the centres, Oliver Hillary and Martyn Hutton. Andy Stembridge then added another, running strongly from full-back.

In the second half, Ian Charlton was over the whitewash but was unable to touch down before his second row forward partner in crime, Jason Armstrong, showed good skills to chip, catch and dummy before diving over.

Rory Dixon cleverly placed a crossfield kick into the wind that Denham was able to gather, glide past defenders, and find the supporting Charlie Dodd. The winger touched down under the posts allowing Hyslop to add the points. Good work from Chris Woodburn released Dixon who ran powerfully for his own late try to give the Centurions a narrow win in an enthralling contest.

Tynedale RFC

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