Sat 7 Sep 2024
A repeat trip to West Yorkshire to face Knottingley RUFC provided an improved performance from Globe Holidays sponsored Stocksbridge Rugby however, they plucky visitors eventually succumbed to a 27pts to 14pts defeat in Round 1 of the Yorkshire 4 Counties league campaign. Stocksbridge were able to select the returning Joe Smith in the front row, with newcomer George Watts being given his debut at No 8. A simple penalty gave the home side an early lead, this was compounded by an injury to Tim Burton, & although the visitors had their share of both territory & possession, the home side took advantage of their opportunities to rack up 3 first half tries, leaving the half time score : Knottingley RUFC 24pts – Stocksbridge Rugby nil. Two early yellow cards for the hosts allowed Stocksbridge some ascendency & Jack ‘crazy feet’ Spencer found a gap to dance thru an overworked defence to register Stocksbridge’s first try of the campaign , youngster Tom Kerr added the conversion, as he did when the impressive Joe Smith crashed over for a further Stocksbridge score, after more good work from the hard working forward pack. The only Knottingley score in the 2nd half was a penalty, showing some nervy respect for their committed opponents to bring the event to a close with a final score of: Knottingley RUFC 27pts – Stocksbridge Rugby 14pts. An improving display from the travelling Stocksbridge squad, who will now turn their attention to next week’s Round 2 clash away at Sheffield Medics. A fixture which has been reversed due to the on-going pitch drainage maintenance at the Coal Pit Lane arena.
A Man of the Match performance from veteran enforcer Joe Smith on his return, & encouraging words from Skipper, ‘clock tower’ Andy Beal who said, ‘we have improved from our first hit out, & have a good platform to build on’, adding, ‘we are looking forward to the season & feel we have a point to prove’.
Written by Andrew Tyers
