Sandal 2s vs Driffield

Driffield have had a fantastic season and like sandal, have had one of their better 2nd team seasons ever. It took an almighty defensive effort to repel them and come away with a 12-5 victory.
Sandal had the better of the early exchanges with great carriers in the forwards, in particular from Hodgkiss, Nyambega and Ward. Handley and Cherry looked a threat in the back line without quite making decisive breaks. In the end it was Handley and Hodgkiss that combined for the 1st try which resulted in J Baz crossing in the corner.
Driffield worked their way back into the game and seemed to have the better of the set piece and breakdown. Sandals only other threats in the 1st half came from 2 Hulme breaks in midfield but unfortunately we were unable to capitalise.
With the sides locked at 5-5 at half time, a spot in the final beckoned and the next score was going to be vital. Little did we know, the next score would be the match winner and come so early in the second half.
After a few dominant carries and a rumble down the wing from nyambega, with all eyes on hodgkiss close to the line, Hulmes pass missed the big man and was onto a rampaging Beeney who crossed untouched.
The next 30 mins was a nervy watch and a masterclass in what not to do with the ball when ahead. Penalties and mistakes creeped into the game and invited pressure at every available opportunity. Add a yellow card to this with 10 to go the pressure was well and truly on.
If Sandals attack was left wanting, the defence was nothing short of sensational. Special efforts from Ben Wilson and Jacob Barlow prevented certain tries. Fantastic maul defence and around the ruck from the forwards repelled wave after wave of Driffield pressure.
It was however the centre partnership of Handley and Cherry who probably won us the game in defence. A number of crucial one on one tackles, cover tackles and mistakes forced allowed for crucial breathers for all.
A bizarre winning moment, where the Driffield back row tackled Sandals 9 as the Driffield 9 passed to the 10 was relief for all in Maroon and Gold. Relief quickly became joy and reward for a fantastic 2nd team season.
The final next week against Wharfdale will no doubt be the sternest test of the season. This 2nd team however has become accustomed to going in through the front door and is most certainly charging!

Driffield 5 Sandal 12
Moms: Cherry, Rich Travis-Carr and Handley.
Many thanks JRD