Durham Deluge Doesn't Deter Delightful Double - Ryt-on !

Despite the downpour over the last 24 hrs Rytons pitch was in remarkably good condition. Novos were missing some regulars in Luke Menzfeld, Josh Igoe and Jack Spoor. However, this gave us the opportunity to bring up new player George Davidson, Michael Nugent and Michael Stowe.

We kicked off with a slight breeze at our backs but it was Ryton who scored first. They benefitted from a strange decision as we were penalised for coming in from the wrong side, despite it being a perfectly executed 2 on 1 tackle. Ryton up 3-0.

We responded well as expected, as the forwards edged the scrum battle with Tommy Goodman working his rather large opponent well. On the back of some good possession and territory Jez Nash crashed over to put us up 5-3.

Both sets of players become frustrated by the whistle throughout the match with perhaps Novos receiving the short end of the stick. On 15 mins Dodd missed a kick which was knocked on right on the line for Aedan Moloney to gladly scoop up and dive over the grounded Ryton player to score. Much to Rytons amusement the ref signalled held up and gave us a scrum. Unfortunately, they were unable to compose themselves quick enough as a well worked back row move put Cillian O'Shaughnessy in. Converted by Dodd to make it 12-3 to Novos.

Ryton, always a tough opponent responded with a period of pressure. Attacking our line they were awarded a penalty. Iain Dodds was then yellow carded after asking the ref what the penalty was for. As Dodds was walking from the field Rytons very large 12 crashed over after a couple of missed tackles. Conversion off the post for 12-8 to Novos and a man down.

Novos executed their tried and trusted kick off tactics. Ball kicked high from Dodd for Aedan Moloney to smash whoever catches it. Turnover won allowing us to finish the half in their 22. Ryton then conceded a penalty, kicked by Dodd for a half time score of 15-8.

I admit to having the odd pet hate in modern rugby and saw another one raise its ugly head as 4-5 Ryton players and their coach wanted to surround the ref at half time. I found this odd as they were probably getting the rub of the green in all honesty. I suggested in my most polite manner that they may be better served in moving away.

Second half commenced as the first ended with players showing frustration at most decisions. Ryton played a simple game plan of using their massive lads to smash up the middle. We met them head on for the most part as Michael Nugent, Iain Dodds but in a couple of big hits. In addition, Ben Merrett was tackling anything they didn't.

They did manage to score from a quick tap after our lads didn't react quick enough as they were adamant Nash had won a turnover. Only to see Rytons 9 tap and take off toward the line. They eventually bundled over to make it 15-15.

With a change in tactic we tried to up the tempo and move the ball from deep. On one such occasion we counter attacked from 80m out. The backs showed some great handling under pressure to put Johnny Ward away on a run down the touch line before fending off the cover for a fine try. Conversion added by Dodd 22-15.

Then came perhaps the try of the game as Rytons ten kicked away possession. Carl Parkinson picked up the ball and ghosted into a gap that no one else saw. He was not finished there as he threw a trademark offload for Ward to run in the last 50 m untouched. Try converted 29-15.

To their credit Ryton never gave up and finished the stronger as Novos were put down to 14 following a yellow card to Merrett. Novos goal line defence was fantastic as we smashed into their big lads. With 9 mins to play Ryton gave up their hunt for a draw, opting to kick a penalty instead. Score 29-18 so I guess they hoped to kick a penalty and get a bonus point. Thought it was a bit strange but what would I know.

The whistle sounded one last time for a well earned away victory. Ryton are tough opponents and I was delighted to hear we had won the seconds game further up the hill.

An important victory for us after our poor showing last time out vs City. Loads of positives to take as we saw three 2nd teamers step up and play well. Also, we saw the return of Cillian O'Shaughnessy and Alex Littlefair after injury and illness. Finally, Bruno Smith had a cold day out but has been able to integrate himself into the squad in preparation for the young mans debut in the next week or two.

Thanks to the ref. Apologies that you were sometimes surrounded by the players who had become frustrated. I enjoyed our chat after the game and I hope you continue your development within the game.

Next Saturday we are home to Stockton as we look to try and form a breakaway group in the top four of the league. They will be tough opponents as always but we will ensure we are well prepared. Four teams out again so get to training and secure your spot. See you all then.