Tynedale vs Harrogate

In contrast to the hosts Gate had a number of players unavailable and then were subjected to the withdrawal of 5 more players from the squad finalised at Thursday night's training.

Nevertheless Harrogate got of to a flying start when gaining possesion on the halfway line,flanker Chris Wilson made ground before releasing wingman Arnie Ellison who sped on to touch down for a 5 - nil lead as the conversion was missed.

Tynedale then took control and scored at regular intervals to build up a substantial half time lead.

At the heart of Tynedale's effort was lock forward Richard Boyle,lately of Harrogate colours and now on a full time contract with Newcastle Falcons from whom he is on loan at Tynedale.

Gate's cause was hampered by the early loss of impressive flanker Nick Beaumont with a hamstring strain and new backrower Joe Maud with diarrhoea.

Harrogate's second half display was resilient and displayed great character.

A second try followed with a fine supporting break by skipper Ed Smithies who passed to the supporting Rory Carmichael who touched down by the posts and the try was converted.

Whilst the scoreline looked grim there were many positives to take from the game and the squad's commited effort was always evident.

Match Report by Graham Siswick