Heworth U9s v Stanley Rangers U9s
17.05.09

Stanley finished on the wrong end of the scoreline in what was a very close and keenly contested encounter.

The tone was set during the two opening five minutes with some big hits coming in from both teams as they both looked to dominate in the forwards. Heworth to their credit are one of the few teams this season that matched Stanley in that department, and it made for a great spectacle. Heworth went ahead when two consecutive penalties saw Stanley trying to defend their line for far too long, and inevitably Heworth managed to strike first. Stanley hit back through Alfie Goddard to level the scores during a bruising first half. Heworth again went ahead after some good passing lead to them crossing the whitewash again. Stanley worked hard in defence, particularly Top Tackler Ben Green and Man Of Steel Owen Trout, to keep themselves within touching distance at halftime.

The second half started in the same vein as the first, with some big hits coming in from both teams but again it was two consecutive penalties that allowed Heworth to build some pressure and eventually score in the corner, and regain the lead. Stanley again refused to roll over and replied through stand off Alfie Goddard for his second of the game. Stanley had a couple of opportunities to really put the game in the balance, but unfortunately tired legs and minds allowed Heworth to score two breakaway tries late on.

There were much improved performances from outstanding effort winner Liam Brady and Man of The Match winner Stephen Gibbs, who is playing some great rugby at the moment. Away team Man of The Match went to Ryan Snowden.

Tries: Alfie Goddard (2)

Kicks: Alfie Goddard.