Academy claim County Plate

Percy Park Academy 42 Ponteland 3

Park won the county plate in style yesterday at Border Park RFC against Ponteland. Having defeated our opponents four times this season in league matches Park had to guard against complacency and actually took some time to get into the game as a bright, committed Ponteland side started well, full of fire and passion that rocked Park in the early exchanges. Unsurprisingly Ponteland took a deserved lead, kicking a penalty from a Park off-side on their 22 for 0 - 3. Having had the wake up call Park responded and though territory remained even, their visits into Pont's 22 often led to points being scored. Tries by Davidson, Atkinson and McFarlane were backed up by three conversions by Spowart. McFarlane's try being the pick of the half as it was a great team try finished well by a player with still lots to do to score. Half time score Park 21  Ponteland 3.

With Park having the slope in the second half it was assumed our opponents would have been over run but to their credit Pont battled well and pressured Parks 22 on a number of occasions. Further tries by Irving, Robertson and Cottingham, again all converted by Spowart completed the scoring to make it 42 - 3. Ponteland battled till the end despite having a large casualty list with a number of players having to leave the pitch due to injuries. Their spirit before, during and after the game was top class and hopefully many of these players will remain in senior rugby next year.

For Park it was good to see our under 18's win some silverware prior to them moving into the seniors. With a number of them already playing competitive senior rugby this season the platform has been set for them to make their mark in the coming years. For the under 17's (and 16's!) a years experience up against older lads (and our seniors) will put them in good stead for next year. Roll on September!

Final score Percy: Park 42 Ponteland 3

Man of the match: Paul Spowart (flawless kicking)