Match Report

This week Novos 2’s were scheduled to travel to Corbridge to take on Tynedale Centurions, however for unknown circumstances Tynedale were unable to host us, and Novos were awarded 5 league points.

Thanks to Stuart Miles we were quickly able to arrange a replacement fixture away at Guisborough, although without any props we were extremely grateful of the offer of two of Guisborough’s props to enable to game to go ahead.

Unfortunately Novos did not have the ideal match preparation with most arriving slightly later than planned after a few wrong turns on the journey down, and without a referee with 20 mins before kick-off, there was some sorting to do. Thankfully Guisborough’s retired referee Tony Cook was on hand to help out, and with a slightly delayed kick-off, and with the welcome addition of Guisborough props Adam O’Malley and Dave Trainor Novos were ready to go.

It was a scrappy start to the match with a number of unforced handling errors from both sides as both tried to stamp their authority on the game, with Guisborough showing their physicality up-front early on. Novos were first to capitalise early on with some excellent ball carrying in open play from winger Euan Binmore, and an excellent finish from debutant Will Griffee coming through from full-back. The rest of the first half saw Guisborough really show their strength with Novos missing too many crucial tackles, allowing Guisborough to lead 15-7 at half-time.

The second half saw a strong Novos fight back as they made good use of their speed, fitness and quick thinking with tries from Luke Toulmin and Ollie Eaves taking the score to 20-19, however yet more powerful running from the Guisborough pack restored their lead to 27-19. Novos forwards continued to battle with John Addison, Sam Dixon, and Neil Spence teaming up well to force a number of turnovers to secure good ball for Eaves to ship it wide, and with just moments to spare and some brilliant finishing saw Justin Taylor score out of position on the wing. It was however too little too late with the score finishing 27-24.

The match saw strong debut performances from back rows Ollie Bains, Ollie Milner, and Josh Floyd, wingers Ben Forbes and Matt Macauley, and versatile back Will Griffee. Novos man of the match went to Luke Toulmin for a fantastic all round performance at 9.

Many thanks again to Guisborough for an excellently close fought match - we hope to see you at Sutherland Park in the New Year for a return leg...and plenty of beers.