An under-strength Centurions were still struggling to sort out positions and tactics when they found themselves three converted tries down within the five minutes of the start. Indeed, newcomer Henry Wilkie-Smith managed to play flanker, number 8, full-back and winger before settling down in the centre before half-time.

The remainder of the first half was a battle to hang on and the seasiders scored a further three well-constructed tries to lead 42-0 at half-time.

The break gave Tynedale a chance to regroup and sort out their defensive problems and they managed to "win" the second half by three unconverted tries to two.

The front-row forwards, Ed Weir, Robbie Binks and Rory Craney, held a much bigger pack with ease and provided a regular supply of good ball in the tight. From a scrum on the half-way line Chris Kerr cleverly switched play blind and an alert Donald Stembridge supported from full-back and showed his trade-mark pace and elusive running to score a fine try.

Forwards Kael Horton and Jack Bullen, who were industrious in defence and attack throughout the game, combined to drive deep into opposition territory and skipper Jake Sloan and Wilkie-Smith moved the ball smoothly to Stembridge who ran in unopposed.

Spencer Tolley then ran strongly from his own half and, when tackled, the ball ran loose but was hacked through and a great chase saw fellow winger Ian Slark pick and dive over in the last play of the game.

The improvement in the second-half emphasised that at least one training session before next season might be advisable to avoid being caught cold as the Centurions were by well-drilled and organised opposition.

Tynedale RFC

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