One point denies first team (From Gazette & Herald)

One point denies first team

North 2 East: Malton & Norton 16, Alnwick 17

This was a great game between two very evenly matched sides, who can take credit for producing such good rugby.

Malton showed their intent by making inroads into Alnwick territory, with strong running on the flanks. Malton should have taken the lead when they were awarded a penalty 10 metres out in front of the posts. Instead of taking an easy three points, they elected to go for the big prize and spread the ball wide. The visitors' defence was stout and they managed to keep Malton out before mounting their own attack.

A period of pressure on the Malton line was converted into points after 20 minutes when centre three-quarter Rob Howliston crossed for the opening score. Alnwick soon added to the tally when Malton were temporarily reduced to 13 men as a result of two yellow cards, and Alnwick fly-half Greg Dawson took full advantage with a penalty.

Malton came back firing on all cylinders. A good move along the right flank featuring Ian Cooke was halted when he was brought down inches short of the line. Alnwick, however, were forced to concede a penalty and this time Cooke slotted the ball between the posts to open the account.

Malton were playing the better rugby at this time but Alnwick kept plugging away and forced them into conceding a penalty for holding onto the ball at a tackle. Malton's Liam Vaughan then led a charge to set up a good position for fly-half and skipper Chris Creber to orchestrate a good move with fullback Jason Simpson, before freeing Cooke to score in the corner. The conversion attempt unluckily struck an upright before rebounding clear.

On the resumption, Malton almost took the lead when Vaughan burst through from a Creber pass to cross the line. Unfortunately, he was judged not have grounded the ball and it was disallowed.

Alnwick did, however, concede a penalty and Cooke levelled the scores for Malton. Alnwick replied with two penalties for offside, and then came the try of the game. From a scrum 20 metres out, Creber broke and exchanged passes with Simpson before scorching over in the corner for a brilliant solo try. With the minutes ticking away Malton fought desperately to get another score but just failed as time ran out.

An unfortunate incident at the final whistle saw Creber shown a red card for a comment made to the referee - a sad end to what had been an enthralling game.

There were plusses in the Malton ranks. John Dobson showed a great display in the second row. Although now apparently safe, Malton still need to gain another win to ensure rugby in the same league next term, a task certainly more than within their reach.

Next week, Malton & Norton's first team will travel to face Stockton, kick off at 2.15pm. And the third team will face Bridlington at their home ground, kick off at 2.15pm.

Updated: 15:10 Wednesday, February 09, 2005