A game of two halves

Selby 2nds travelled to Morley RUFC on a bright and sunny day in the hope of a repeat performance of last seasons fixture where Selby were able to play expansive rugby in a thrilling match.

A credit to Selby RUFC is the depth of the Club and the Selby 2nds is always evolving and constantly changing, with the 1st team calling up players last minute and late call offs from players due to unexpected commitments, they were able to add to the squad from the 3rds to bridge the numbers.

The start of the match resulted in a quick Selby try by Case after the forwards were able to apply pressure in the right places to open the gaps for Case to touch down over the white wash. Converted by Bramley.

At the restart, Morley we determined to show how good their ‘rugby league’ style forwards were, with hard, fast and straight running. The ability to off load in the tackle gave them the upper hand, just as they had done in last seasons fixture. Unfortunately, this caused several gaps in Selby’s defence time and time again allowing Morley to cross the whitewash several times. However, Selby we not down and out, following a good passage of play, Brown was able to capitalise on continued pressure to cross the line for Selby’s second try of the half, leaving the score at half time 33-12 to the hosts with both teams playing competitive rugby although Morley showing to be the better drilled side and settled quicker in to the game than the Selby lads who were still ‘getting to know each other’ on the pitch.

The second half started with flare and putting several phases together showing the style of rugby they can play when it clicks. The match then took a turn for the worse, after loosing Kilgar at the break due to an ankle injury, it was now Gabel’s turn to leave the pitch for the day after a knee to the upper back neck meant that he could not continue anymore. This left Selby with 14 v 15 men to finish the game. However, Selby’s talent and determination kept them in the game. Indeed some would say playing the better rugby. This resulted in Selby’s third and last try by Liddle, another young lad who is in his first season at senior rugby.

The game ended with both teams smiling after a competitive game by all.