Wharfedale mounted a strong late challenge but couldn’t overcome Darlington Mowden Park, falling 24-17 in a rain-drenched encounter.

Challenging Conditions Test Both Sides

Heavy rain made the pitch slippery, yet both teams delivered disciplined displays with minimal errors. Wharfedale started strongly, restricting Darlington Mowden Park to fleeting attacks in their territory.

Darlington Mowden Park quickly found their stride, bouncing back from a disallowed try with two rapid converted scores to seize the lead.

First-Half Exchanges

Jack Pinder responded for Wharfedale ten minutes later, crossing for a try that Jack Greig converted, narrowing the margin. Darlington Mowden Park pulled ahead again midway through the half as scrum-half Benjamin Douglas touched down for a converted try, making it 21-7.

Second-Half Momentum Shift

Wharfedale tightened their defense after the break. Soon after restart, Darlington Mowden Park dropped to 14 players following a yellow card. Wharfedale slotted a penalty in front of the posts, reducing the deficit to 11 points.

The hosts hit back with their own penalty to regain breathing room. Wharfedale dominated the closing stages amid tiring opponents and injuries, with Pinder’s second converted try on 67 minutes bringing them close.

Sustained pressure followed, but Wharfedale couldn’t level the score, securing a losing bonus point from the tight defeat.

Captain’s Reflection

Oli Cicognini, Wharfedale’s captain for the night, commented: “A disappointing first 20 minutes but after that we grew into the game. Defensively we improved over the last hour of play. We had a lot of possession in the red zone but didn’t convert the opportunities. Overall, it is a disappointing result.”

Wharfedale controlled possession and territory, aided by Greig’s precise kicking, but faltered in converting chances. Standouts included Borrill in the lineout and Greig’s boot work. Both squads earned praise for their resilience in tough weather.