Knaresborough edge local thriller..

Knaresboro 2nd team eventually won this keenly contested local derby which was the classic game of two halves.

The 14 man Harrogate side warmed up well and showed good intensity from the kick off.

Strong driving play from the front row of of Tom, Steve and Chris allowed pacey back play with miles Lloyd, Ben Pye and Ollie Myers able to run rings around their opposition.

Miles has also packed his kicking boots and harrogate were able to pull away to a healthy 18 point lead.

Cracking interplay between forwards and backs was the story of the first 30 mins with the direct running centre combination of Irvine and Baggers constantly able to get over the gain line.

However harrogate were never able to put enough daylight between them and a spirited Knaresboro side.

Local gun for hire will Stevenson( more clubs that Rory Mcillroy ) was able to keep them in the game with his elusive line breaks and long deep kicking coupled with Harrogate repeatedly falling Foul of the referee.

Despite some heroic Harrogate defence on the stroke of half time Knaresborough went over from a short range tap penalty. HT 18-7

Buoyed by the half time arrival of Beags, Harrogate were confident thy could close the game out but the 2nd half was all Knaresborough.

Their heavier more physical pack stated to dominate up front and Stevenson was finding space at will.

This plus Harrogates determination to play from anywhere whatever the cost led to an entertaining game but ultimately disappointing result.

The visitors scored 2 tries out wide and were awarded a penalty try under the posts whilst all Harrogate could muster was another 3 points from miles boot. Final Score 21-29

Great game, keenly contested and some good rugby by two decent young sides featuring many Harrogate players back from University on a day when we had three sides and 55 players on the park !