Bramley 24 Wath 40

After a three week lay off Wath were forced on to the back foot by their hosts, Bramley’s lively opening. Having defended well the Wath forwards took control and gained good field position. Awarded a penalty 5 metres from their opponent’s line Wath second row, Luke Stead, scored an opportunist try as he took a quick tap and crashed over. Stand - off, Jack Whitlam added the conversion to give his side a 0-7 lead, after 8 minutes.
Wath continued to stay on top and after 15 minutes winger Joe Short scored his debut league try for Wath following good work by Joe Earp and Joe Bartlett from the base of a scrum near the Bramley line. An excellent conversion from the touchline by Whitlam put Wath 0-14 up.
Seemingly well in control Wath were caught napping and following a turnover Bramley found acres of space and scored under the posts. The simple conversion made the score 7-14 after 20 minutes and relegation threatened Bramley suddenly found some self - belief.
An upset looked on the cards as Bramley added three more tries with two converted as Wath were rattled and playing as if they had over-indulged on the seasons festivities. As the score had moved to 24-14 to the home side, Wath emerged from their stupor. As their forwards were trundling relentlessly to their opponents line, Bramley were forced to concede a penalty try in the last play of the half and Wath reduced the deficit to 24-21.
With the words of their coaches ringing in their ears Wath regained their control up front and increased the pressure on the home team. After 65 minutes Wath were awarded a very kickable penalty, but skipper Sean Hopper exhibited great confidence in his team mates and opted for a kick into the corner. The following line out was taken cleanly and the Wath forwards drove the maul over the line for Sam Levitt to touch down. Another excellent conversion by Whitlam put his team 24-28 in front and the skippers decision was vindicated.
Having the territorial advantage for most of the second half Wath were able to employ the same tactic on two further occasions. After 75 minutes Hopper himself scored from close range to take the score to 24 -33 and a try from the ever valiant Joe Earp, converted by Whitlam closed the scoring in the 80th minute, with Wath winning 24-40. A final mention must go to replacement Jake Keogh for his awesome tackle in injury time that stopped a Bramley attack in its tracks.

Bramley showed great commitment and deservedly took a bonus point but on the heavy pitch Wath with their heavier forwards were always favourites to win despite taking a nap for 20 minutes before half time.
Man of Steel for great leadership by actions and decision making, captain Sean Hopper.
Steve
Pres.