A calm early Spring day saw Harrogate Colts journey onto the M62 and Castleford RUFC. An area better known for the opposite code of Rugby (League) the facilities and coaches were welcoming to the team as a hive of activity took place on the surrounding pitches.

After a few admin issues the teams were set to play.
A minutes silence proceeded the game to remember a Castleford Coach that had sadly passed away that week.
Harrogate Colts offer their condolences to that family and the Castleford club.

The first 5 - 10 minutes were a tussle with boths sides "feeling" each other out. Harrogate enjoyed the fair share of territory for the opening but could not find a way through or build any pressure.

Castleford drew first blood when a short ball found a runner that simply sliced through the Harrogate defence without a hand laid on him.
And from Gates point of view it was all downhill from there.

Cas played on their players (possible) league background with very effective two in tackling, that looked to steal or slow the ball down, as well as a very effective offloading game. The Cas boys ran hard and straight.

Gate were nowhere to be found. The backline was static, the comms were poor, we lacked "oomph" and direction. Had we ever played rugby before? On this showing it was hard to say.
Some serious questions need to be asked of the players and coaches in preparation for the new season.

Cas deserved their win and we wish them well in the rest of the competition.

Cas will be looking to field a senior Colts team next year and we will look forward to playing them again at that level. After the warm hospitality and curry & chips that were served in the clubhouse we may well come to you again!

Training will take place once again at Claro Road on Thursday at 1900hrs, all U17's & 16's to attend.