For the second time in September a Rovers side beat a Brigade team. Previously Rovers had won the Andrew Arnell Memorial game while today the Heughers prevailed in another close encounter.
After the pre match excitement of a team photo the Heughers made the short journey from the New to the Old Friarage.
The Heughers started off facing the slight wind and slope and did well considering. Our scrum was under pressure from Brigade's esteemed pack but a lack of line out ball was sorted with the introduction of Irish Ethan. A Billy Lloyd penalty was the only score of the first half.
HT: Hartlepool BBOB 0 - 3 Rovers Heughers
Despite Rovers having the elements in their favour it was Brigade who threatened more. They got their reward when Brad Harrington finished off a 5 metre scrum with a no. 8 pick up for a converted try. 7-3 to Brigade. That score seemed to spur the Heughers on though and we laid seige to the Brigade line. Several players went close before Billy Lloyd powered through a few defenders to go over the white wash. A try that he improved himself with the conversion. 7-10 to Rovers. Brigade threw everything at us in an attempt to win the game but excellent defence kept them at bay. A turnover with Brigade on the attack led to the ball being booted off the pitch to much relief from Rovers.
Thanks to Brigade for a close fought game and their hospitality back at the Cos. Best of luck for the rest of the season.
Rovers win was based on excellent team work and when required superb defence. Despite being under the cosh at times the team never gave up and were rewarded with the win.
And well done to referee Ray Sutherland who needed all of his years of experience to keep on top of the hot house atmosphere of a Hartlepool derby
Rovers man of the match was Billy Lloyd who scored all of our points and was prominent in attack and defence. And he can fair welly the ball. We are grateful to our new sponsors Heatwave Tanning Studio who will provide a Hydro Massage to ease Billy's aches and pains. Why not check out their services here - HERE
SQUAD
R Harrison
N Harrison
M Lamb
S Railton
P Arnell
K Wright
L Powell
A Cooper
A Palmer
D Carroll
A Stokes
J Cairns
E Dodge
D Foster
T Van Nierkerk
B Lloyd
Next week we are at home to Guisborough Monks.