In an excitingly close match, Lymm won by the narrowest of margins so both Clubs can look forward to playing each other again next season. Lymm attacked and defended well throughout the game but Harrogate’s pack dominated, inspired by No8 Tim Heaton in his 200th game.

After an early period of both sides testing each other’s defences, Harrogate full back, Olly Rosillo counter attacked from deep to set up a backs move which ended with a knock-on. Harrogate’s scrum was in control throughout the match but conceded a free kick from which Lymm launched a skilful attack and 2nd Row Matt Connelly scored a try converted by Scott Redfern. Harrogate quickly countered, forcing Lymm’s defence to go offside and Luke White’s penalty opened the home account.

Lymm scored next and it started with a break from the outstanding Redfern. No 8, Oli Higginson was in support to score their second converted try. The Harrogate pack then set up a well controlled 30 metres driving maul but an apparently good try was disallowed. This resulted in Lymm flanker, Jacob Ashall being sin binned but, surprisingly, a penalty try wasn’t awarded. A Harrogate attacking line-out followed and Connor Ward crashed over to score on the stroke of half time. White’s attempted touchline conversion went out off the upright and, as the final score shows, this proved to be crucial.

Harrogate’s pack came out for the second half with all guns blazing and consistent pressure led to an Andy Boyde converted try which put Harrogate 15-14 ahead. However, Lymm quickly responded and winger Luke Richards scored a converted try after an excellent passing move. Still more dominant Harrogate forward play followed with Jonny Coser stealing Lymm line-out ball. Lymm’s well organized defence held out against waves of Harrogate driving mauls until replacement hooker, Aarin Yorke squirmed over to score out wide. The conversion attempt narrowly missed and the final whistle soon followed.

Harrogate :Rosillo, Jukes, Barnard, Naylor, Lansdall, White, Matthews, Butler, Larder, Ward, Boyde, Brady, Dodds, J Coser, Heaton. Subs:- Peace, Yorke, Miller

Lymm: Denman, Sutherland, Kimber, T Bray, Richards, Redfern, Davies, Woods, A Bray, Widdrington, Connelly, Mullarkey, Watson, Ashall, Higginson. Subs:- Sneddon, Fisher, Hand

Referee: Nathan Howarth (Northern Division)

Match report by Bill Barrack