In-form hosts Pocklington RUFC prove too strong for Harrogate Pythons

Harrogate proved to be formidable opposition, and there was little between the sides for long periods, writes Phil Gilbank.

But Pocklington were able to make the most of their opportunities to keep their noses in front, while their strong defence made Harrogate work hard for their points.

The two sides swapped early penalties before Will Sayer burst over from a quick lineout, Christian Pollock converting.

Pollock and the opposing kicker again exchanged penalties, and Pocklington's scrambling defence was severely stretched to hold out.

Harrogate finally got their just rewards with a try to make it 13-11, before a Pock double on either side of the interval took them clear.

Combative wing Jed Jackson squeezed in at the flag, Pollock added a penalty with the last kick of the half, then slick hands and feet from Rob Boddy and Pollock created a try for wing Flynn Sangwin.

The end to end action resumed as replacement forward Ed Wraith crossed from a close range lineout and Harrogate straightway grabbed an identical reply.

Into the closing stages and good approach play from the home backs set the stage for Sayer to crash in for his second try.

Pollock's conversion made the game safe with a 20-point cushion; but there was still time for a visiting penalty try for offside, before Pollock sealed it with a last minute penalty.

Down the road at Kilnwick Park, Pocklington Women returned to winning ways with an inspired 36-5 victory over Malton & Norton.

Ele Randall's touchdown opened the Pocklington account, then the incisive Bea Stanton ran in a hat-trick of tries and see Pock pull away. Sister Kat Stanton stormed over for two more scores, before Malton grabbed a late consolation.

Pocklington Panthers travelled to Scunthorpe to find themselves against higher-rated opposition than scheduled, and the Panthers went down 30-8 despite a battling display.

Pocklington Pilgrims lost 10-7 at Scunthorpe in a nip and tuck contest.