Blaydon secure first away win of the season – Wharfedale 13, Blaydon 27

Not only a first away win of the season and ample revenge for an early season reversal at Crow Trees, more importantly this comfortable victory allowed Blaydon to put clear water between themselves and second bottom Wharfedale.

They led from the 9th minute onwards, easily containing most of the home sides attacks and scoring themselves whenever they ventured up-field.

Fly-half Brett Connon who contributed 17 points with the boot got them underway with 2 early penalties following a ruck infringement and an offside before the opening try arrived.

Good ball was moved quickly from their own half and then through many hands to lock-forward Will Witty who burst clear down the centre for an excellent touch-down.

Connon added the conversion to make it 0-13 at that stage but Wharfedale responded with a try of their own through replacement prop-forward Chris Howick who rumbled over from close range.

Connon and Jamie Guy, against his former club, exchanged penalties before Blaydon secured a secured a 2nd try. With the interval approaching they set up a typical catch and drive for Jason Smithson (inevitably at the moment) to get the touch.

Trailing by 8-21 at the break Wharfedale got back into it early in the second period when Dan Tai, a prolific try scoring winger, joined in a pile-up of forwards on the visitors line to reduce the deficit by 5 points.

Blaydon however continued to hold the upper hand, applying pressure at the other end for long periods often from good turnover ball. Connon with his 4th successful penalty stretched the advantage to 13-24 and then with the last kick of the game added another for a well earned win.

John Brennan