The Heughers ran out 31 - 15 winners in a Candy League and Pyman Cup double header. The Heughers now play away to the winners of Horden 2s and Old Boys A in the Pyman semi final - possibly some time in April.

Games between the Heughers and Brigade had been very tight over the past couple of seasons with both sides having one narrow win each and a draw the season before. So another close encounter was expected.

On the playing front we had a few late withdrawls but Shane Jeffery continued his gradual return to rugby after nearly 3 months out injured and for James Keers it was his one week in three being available to play. The Heughers were further strengthened by the welcome return of a beefed up Lewy Dixon after a few years absence and were particularly grateful to have 7 of our promising Colts available.

After some settling down by both teams the Heughers started to gain field position and create scoring opportunities. One move which saw the ball moved swiftly through hands led to Alec Bramfitt going over for a try that Billy Lloyd converted. Then Alec made a lovely break and created the space for James Keers to go over for an unconverted try. 12-0. Brigade ended the half the stronger team though and pulled one try back when Luke Wolfe scored after a period of pressure.

HT - Rovers Heughers 12 - 5 BBOB

With the wind now at their backs Brigade narrowed the Heughers' lead with another try. Somehow Lee Clayton found himself at full back covering a speculative kick forward. Obviously perturbed by the physical stature of one of the chasing Craggs twins Lee knocked on and shortly after Kevin Mullender went over for another try. The conversion was surprisingly missed but the Heughers lead now was only 12-10. However we kicked on and put the game to bed with 3 unanswered tries. Keers scored the first two of these, for his hat trick, with the first being an excellent example of just moving the ball into space and backs running hard. The next try was scored in the corner by Lewy Dixon who had looked dangerous all game. Billy Lloyd knocked over 2 of the 3 conversions, including a beauty from the touchline, to put us 31-10 up. Brigade had the final say when Johhny Kier forced his way over for a final unconverted try. That effort also signalled the end of Billy's game with referee Andrew Temple sending him to the naughty step after losing patience with the offered difference of opinion on whether the ball was grounded. Mr Temple had a fine match all round.

FT - Rovers Heughers 31 - 15 BBOB

This was another excellent game between the two sides and thanks to Brigade for playing their part in an entertaining and competitive encounter in front of a reasonable crowd given it was a Player's Reunion. Hopefully the ex-players will have appreciated the skill and endeavour of the current crop.

All of our Colts played well but a special mention to Charlie Evans on his senior debut. Charlie was not fazed at all by larger gentlemen encountered at this level and ran hard and fast. His other mate on the wing was Jude Hogg who also played really well and was surprisingly physical for a slender lad. Brigade named Alec Bramfitt as our man of the match and this was quite understandable given that Alec was untouchable at times. However Rovers coaches awarded our own man of the match to Joel Aloub. Joel ended up being our only lineout option and he was a reliable source of ball. He was also excellent in defence and attack and indeed had his best senior game to date. Well done Joel.

And finally congratulations to Chris Kelly who played his first game for a little while. Just the mere 27 years I understand. Great to have you back Chrissy.

Squad

Billy Lloyd
Tony Cooper (cc)
Connor Roarke
Davy Carroll
Jacob Cairns
Ollie Dunn
Mick Bradley
Freeman Lane
Dan Brackstone
Jay Wintersgill
Jake McMorris
Joel Aloub
Dan Arnell
Adam Strong
Shane Jeffery
Tom King
Ste Railton (cc)
Jude Hogg
James Keers
Chris Kelly
Lewy Dixon
Charlie Evans
Ryan Harrison
Alec Bramfitt

Next week we play a double header Candy League game against Billingham 3TM.