Aireborough improve

Aireborough 0

IN the only club game played on the day a much changed Aireborough side put in a vastly improved performance against opposition riding high in the league.

In the first quarter Aireborough's forwards were dominant and camped in their opponents' 22 with James Dale's soaring catches in the line-outs providing ample possession for forward drives led by prop Tim Baxter and back row forward Tony Exley.

Unfortunately they were unable to pierce the opposition defence and had the frustrating experience of conceding two tries following breakdowns near the opponent's line.

This, coupled with the inadequate tackling ofAireborough's wide backs, allowed the opposition to counter attack with length of the pitch moves to score.

After having dominated for long periods Aireborough found themselves 14 points in arrears at the interval with the game slipping away from them.

The second-half saw the familiar pattern of Aireborough pressurising in the forwards but the opposition had now grown in confidence and brought their strong running backs into the game at every opportunity.

This caused Aireborough to struggle with first tackles being missed allowing the opposition moves to gain momentum. Nick Stamp made an impressive debut at scrum-half with his ball distribution, kicking and covering and Aireborough could be grateful for the work rate of flankers Richard Leather and Martin Hemsley.

Two further tries were conceded by Aireborough in a game where they matched the opposing forwards in all aspects but allowed themselves to be exposed at breakdown situations resulting in them paying dearly.

Club coach John Lockwood, who is now involved with the Yorkshire Under-16 side, believes that missed chances early in the game cost Aireborough the match as the opposition were difficult to handle once they got into their stride.

l On Saturday bottom of the league Hornsea visit Nunroyd Park for a game that Aireborough simply must win to avoid relegation from Yorkshire League Division Three. Club skipper Richard Fall looks forward to as much touchline support as possible for this vital fixture ( kick-off 3 pm).

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