Maroons show heart in Drighlington defeat

The game was played in heavy rain, which was not conducive for free flowing rugby, despite both sides serving up an entertaining game.

BARLA Yorkshire Cup winners Drighlington raced into an early 12-0 lead with tries from Kieran Roche and Tom Moorby, both converted by Andy Newton.

Moor looked to have pulled a try back but the touchjudge intervened, insisting he had seen a dropped ball and the effort was ruled out.

Not disheartened, Moor continued to press and good runs by James Eatherley, Andrew Robinson and Jordan Foster provided the position for 17-year-old John Bownass to crash over.

Eatherley converted and the Maroons only trailed 12-6 at half-time.

Roche scored his second try soon after the break but Moor responded well and moved upfield with good drives from Adam Barrett, Matt Shaw and Ash Boddy.

Prop Danny Wardman also produced good runs and Moor kicked to Drighlington’s left, catching the home side unaware and winger Ben Wrightson gathered to touch down.

Eatherley converted as Moor reduced the deficit to just four points.

Drighlington attacked once more and only a terrific tackle by Tom Kaye prevented a certain try.

Soon after, another Drighlington attack resulted in Ryan Burton scoring to put them 20-12 ahead.

Moor dug deep and good work by Cain Crotty, Jamie Samme, Cameron Bruce and Simon Whiteley put them in a good position for Max Vernon to round off the move with a well worked try.

Eatherley landed his third goal and Moor trailed 20-18 late in the game.

The visitors conceded possession from the kick off and Drighlington grabbed the match clinching try through Burton, with Newton converting to end a brave effort by the young Moor side.