U14s - RiponGate

No FBI or CIA coverup and Nixon was nowhere to be seen in the Ripon v Harrogate match today, however those into conspiracy theories might have something to say about the swing of today's game.

From kick off, Harrogate were looking dangerous and scored three unanswered tries early doors - The Harrogate kicker slotting some tricky conversions from way out (0-19).

Credit to the Ripon squad their heads didn't drop and Dylan Hudspeth initiated the comeback with a great individual effort carrying a number of defenders over the line and turning his body to get the touchdown (5-19).

Just before half time Evan Rees playing outside centre rather than his usual position of back row continued the comeback with a good long distance run, beating a number of defenders to score under the posts. Hamish Mainey added the conversion (12-19).

A great start to the second half put pressure on the visitors and a chargedown from Ben Rutter allowed Connor Stout to give Hamish the equalising kick. (19-19).

George Spink, Harry Allen and Oliver Rockey worked well at the back of the scrum and put the Harrogate attackers under constant pressure. Michael Sorby showed his strength with some bulldozer runs and Titus Baker had a number of opportunities on the wing - great last ditch defence from Harrogate prevented him from scoring on at least three occasions.

Hamish Mainey and Cole Potts both showed that not only can they take on the opposition but they can distribute the ball well and with ball in hand Evan Rees notched up another two tries from distance, both converted by Hamish. (33-19)

Oliver Williams, who prevented a number of tries with some great last line defensive tackling showed a clean pair of heels to race in for try number six (38-19).

A great team performance by the entire Ripon squad, especially to come back from a 19 point deficit.

Tries:
Evan Rees (3)
Dylan Hudspeth
Connor Stout
Oliver Williams

Conversions:
Hamish Mainey (4)