Sat 7 Mar 2026
Bradford Salem 30 – 20 Old Crossleyans 1XV
Old Crossleyans travelled to Bradford Salem on Saturday for a high-stakes clash, with both sides desperate for points to avoid the Regional 2 North East relegation play-offs. Following a disappointing loss to Pontefract the previous week, Crocs were seeking a vital away win, but ultimately fell short in a physical encounter defined by refereeing decisions and late drama.
The afternoon started with an immediate blow for the visitors as fly-half Jack Hammond was forced off with an injury after just two minutes, necessitating an early tactical reshuffle. Despite this, Crocs began brightly; strong carries from Sebastiao Da Silva and quick thinking from scrum-half Chris Vine kept the pressure on. After an initial missed attempt, James Johnson slotted a penalty off the post to give Crocs a 3-0 lead.
Salem soon responded through a penalty of their own following a lapse in discipline, and momentum shifted further when Crocs hooker Tom Rouse was yellow carded for offside. The game’s turning point arrived in the 25th minute; after an excellent kick and chase by Joel MacFarlane and Josh Hunt, a James Johnson try was disallowed for a forward pass. Salem immediately countered, sprinting the length of the field to score. A second Salem try from a 5-metre scrum pushed the lead to 15-3.
Crocs fought back just before the interval. After sustained pressure on the Salem line and strong work from the pack, Dan Smith found a gap to dive over, leaving the score 15-8 at halftime.
The second half was played at a very high intensity and saw several disciplinary cards shown to both sides. After an early Salem penalty, Alex Thompson ignited a comeback with a 75-metre interception sprint. With Salem reduced to 13 men following a flurry of infringements, Roji Sbulelo powered over for a try, converted by Johnson, to bring Crocs within three points at 18-15.
However, Salem showed clinical resilience, scoring out wide even while shorthanded. As tempers flared, a series of yellow cards left both sides temporarily depleted. Salem eventually secured the win with a converted try 15 minutes from time. A late effort from Joel MacFarlane brought the final score to 30-20, though Crocs were unable to secure a late losing bonus point.
Crocs have no game next week, providing a chance to regroup before they take on mid-table Malton and Norton at Broomfield on March 21st
Saturday was the final appearance for Tom Rouse, who is flying back to Australia on the 17th after a fantastic stint at the club. "Rousey" has always played well above his weight and provided a massive presence in the front row. He has been a popular and key member of the 1XV squad, and we wish him the very best of luck back down under—he will be missed by everyone at Old Crossleyans.
