Sat 9 Nov 2024
Old Crossleyans 1XV 19 - 29 Pontefract
Old Crossleyans' quest for their first home win of the season came to an unfortunate end at Broomfield on Saturday, when they were defeated 19-29 by Pontefract. Despite holding a 19-12 lead at half-time and the scores level at 19-19 going into the final quarter, poor ball retention and a series of costly errors ultimately sealed their fate.
Old Crossleyans fought back with purpose. A determined break from scrum-half Joe Stott, coupled with a series of penalties against Pontefract, put the Crocs in a strong attacking position. James Johnson was unlucky not to score, as he was tackled into touch just short of the line. A kicking exchange then ensued, with both sides testing each other’s defences, but Pontefract gained the upper hand once again and capitalised on their territory to score a second unconverted try, extending their lead to 0-12.
Undeterred, the Crocs rallied. Strong carries from Santiago Busso and Ellis Nuttall helped move Old Crossleyans downfield, and a high tackle on Joe Stott led to a yellow card for the Pontefract player. Taking advantage of the numerical superiority, Crocs fly-half Joel McFarlane spotted a gap in the defence and surged over for his team’s first try. Johnson’s conversion further reduced the deficit to 7-12.
Pontefract replied with an attacking onslaught which was matched by a spirited defence by the home team. When Pontefract dropped the ball just shy of Crocs try line it was pounced on by Finn Sutcliffe who raced to the halfway line and found Matthew Beswick in support, who finished off Crocs full length try. Converted by Johnson 14-12.
Old Crossleyans weren’t done yet, and they finished the half strongly. After Crocs missed a penalty attempt, a neat chip by Beswick was regathered by him and the ball spun wide finding Dan Smith who was able to cross the Pontefract try line almost unopposed 19-12. Crocs spirits were again boosted just before half time after great work by Harry Drennan at the breakdown.
Early in the second half, Crocs did well to clear their lines after conceding a series of penalties. Play was brought back however, and Pontefract managed to score a converted try, making the scoreline tied with 19 apiece.
A long period of stalemate followed and Crocs were lucky not to receive a yellow card following a deliberate knock on. Pontefract's fly-half Liam Kay slotted over a successful penalty from the halfway line. 19-22
Pontefract further increased their lead with ten minutes remaining with a converted try 19-29.
A Matthew Beswick breakaway in the dying minutes offered a glimmer of hope for the home team, but the ball was kicked away resulting in a disappointing afternoon for the Broomfield men.
