Ripon 13 Wath 10

Wath travelled to 3rd place Ripon in good form following a run of four victories. Starting well, Wath controlled possession, but a loose kick gave the home side a chance to counter attack. Making the most of the opportunity, Ripon scored from a 5 metre line out as the away team were further punished with Sean Hopper being yellow carded in his desperate attempt to prevent the try. A good conversion gave the hosts a 7-0 lead after 10 minutes.
Wath went further behind on 15 minutes when they were guilty of dissent and the Ripon kicker extended their lead to 10-0. The contest continued with Wath rarely looking like scoring and the only further score was a penalty by Jack Whitlam just before half time to reduce the arrears to 10-3.
Wath’s bigger pack dominated the start of the second half and, on 50 minutes, they levelled the score following a pushover try by Joe Earp, converted by Whitlam. The game continued with Wath having the greater amount of possession but denied any clear chances due to the determined tackling of the hosts. Feeding mainly on a limited amount of ball, the home team made several good breaks and only desperate Wath defence prevented Ripon going in front.
With 10 minutes left Wath opted for a kick at goal from a penalty but the ball was hooked wide. Ripon made Wath pay when they were awarded a penalty near the half way line in the 80th minute. The penalty was well struck. It sailed over the crossbar and was worthy of deciding the outcome of this close game.
Wath were left to lick their wounds as the elated Ripon team and supporters celebrated their revenge for a heavy defeat at Moor Road earlier in the season.
Next Saturday Wath entertain Old Grovians who have been a bogey team in recent seasons.