The season got underway, at last, for the community game following The RFU’s decision to delay the start due to the hard ground. Harrogate Pythons took on West Leeds at a very sunny Bluehill Lane LS12.
The first half was competitive with both sides testing each others defence. The Pythons created early chances, Sam Beagrie denied by inches, 2 alleged forward passes with’ walk in’ tries on offer. But, it was The Pythons who scored first through Beagrie being put in space from a well worked move started by debutant Joe Rowntree – Rowntree added the extras. West Leeds opened their account shortly afterwards with a converted try followed by a penalty. A further penalty from the home side before Rowntree added 2 penalties taking the score to 13-13 at half time.
The Pythons took hold of the game in the early part of the 2nd half. Tries from James Goddard, Rhys Cory and Beagrie opened up a significant gap 13 – 32 with 20 minutes remaining. West Leeds began piling on the pressure and quickly took the lead, 39-32. But, that man Beagrie was not to be denied his hat trick. Showing strength and pace his run from half way proved too powerful for the home defence scoring in the corner, Rowntree adding the 2 taking it to 39-39. Back on the offensive The Pythons pressurised the home line with some controlled phase play. Rowntree spotted the gap and barged over, converting his own try 39-46. With seconds left on the clock West leeds broke into The Pythons 22. A game saving tackle from Jack Whitting took the home winger into touch and the ref blows for full time, 39-46.
After the game DoR Tom Baxter said, ” Really proud of our first game of the season – after the delayed start we have been itching to get started. We spoke early in the week about making sure we kept the tempo high and looked to play, we did just that. Our attacking play at times was exceptional. However, there were at least 3 tries we left squandered so we must make sure we are much more clinical and finish those opportunities off. The yellow card at 13 – 32 coupled with a couple of niggles hurt us and allowed West Leeds back into the game, we know that discipline is an area we must focus on to ensure we close games out. But all credit to the boys, they showed great character and endeavour to go on and win the game in a tight contest”
The Pythons next game is at home against recently promoted Bridlington, kick off 2pm.
