Scarborough 6 Bridgnorth 10
Report by Bob Turner
Biddell to the Rescue.
Bridgnorth supporters took the long trip to Scarborough and were on tenterhooks right until the last minute of overtime, as Bridgnorth conceded three yellow cards and the home side must be kicking themselves that were unable to capitalise on their set piece domination.
Bridgnorth conceded a penalty right from the kick off and the first forward exchange soon set the tone for a rugged forward battle.
Both sides attempted to run with the ball. First Darren Brick had a great take in a lineout and with a good forward drive was finally repelled by the home defence. Then Scarborough’s winger, streaking down the line in front of the packed grandstand, was tackled into touch by Will Biddell when a score looked likely.
Jimmy Gore was his usual elusive self and with a quick dart and a long accurate pass, gave Will Biddell, on the wing, space to beat the out of place defence to the line. The big winger converted the kick himself to put Bridgnorth 7-0 in front.
The Scarborough front row made life difficult for their opposite numbers and penalties came thick and fast. Will Biddell hit a marvellous towering penalty from the half way line to put Bridgnorth further ahead,
Just on half time first Ed John then Ben Rochelle got yellow cards bringing Adam Sterling on and although this brought some stability to the Bridgnorth pack
but Scarborough changed their front row and Adam Sterling got his marching orders. With the Bridgnorth Coach running out of options Bridgnorth were exceedingly lucky not to concede a penalty try, but a lone penalty put the home side on the scoreboard
Warren Harding,Craig Thomas,Calum Madden and Mike Preece all got a run out and an injury to Warren Harding gave Sam Alvey a chance to show his speed, but good possession was scarce as the Home forwards dominated in set and loose play.. Ryan Smeilus, Tim Breakwell, Danny Griffiths and Craig Thomas all tackled bravely but Scarborough gained yet another penalty for a score of 6-10.
In the dying minutes Scarborough had chance after chance to force their way over but Bridgnorth weathered the storm
Bridgnorth now meet Maidstone in the Final at Twickenham on Sunday 3rd May.
Next week back to League duty Bridgnorth entertain Wolverhampton on the Edgar Davies Ground.
Lunch is available but book early
Bob Turner
BRFC
Tel: 08454 65 66 65
Fax: 0800 848 8015
Direct Dial: 01746 717910
email: bob@bestinthecountry.co.uk
FRS Countrywear Limited, Swancote, Bridgnorth, WV15 5HA, United Kingdom
