Wharfedale 45, Tynedale 21

WHARFEDALE played their last warm-up game and entertained a modest crowd while giving chances to new and old players.

The most promising aspect from the game was that six of Dale's tries were scored by the backs.

The forwards did their share of the work but the speed, handling and support play of the back division was highly credible.

The first try, after four minutes, was created by the forwards taking the ball at a Tynedale line-out, Cameron Hudson and James Doherty combining to get very close before Hudson forced his way over, Jamie Guy converting.

Doherty took a quick penalty to grab the Greens' second try after strong running from the forwards forced a penalty, with the extras from Guy making the score 14-0 after ten minutes.

The third try was vintage Wharfedale. Harry Bullough, getting a chance to start at full back and showing a few touches of brilliance combined with a safe pair of hands, started a break deep in Dale territory and Oliver Cicognini followed on before off-loading to skipper Doherty to go under the posts, Guy adding the conversion.

Forwards and backs again worked in harmony late in the first half. The pack forced a turnover and the ball was given to Bullough. Another searing, defence-shattering break was followed with support from Doherty and Huw Morgan before Maxime Labasse crossed for a scintillating score.

Tynedale did get on the board before half-time, with Graeme Dunne crossing, but there was more expansive rugby from Dale in the second half, with many players getting their chance to shine.