WHILE low on forwards this week, Corbridge Centurions had three-quarters to spare during their comfortable victory over Consett III.

Three centres, Jake Sloan, Ben Common and Luke Murtough, volunteered to play in the back row and all acquitted themselves well as they rolled up their sleeves for the tough battle against a heavy and experienced pack.

In the first half, the visitors were often able to retain possession through their forwards and half backs, driving forward at every opportunity.

In contrast, the young, speedy Corbridge back row and three-quarters sought to run the ball at every opportunity, even from behind their own line.

Rhys Ward received a pass from Andy Harvey, showed a fine dummy and went over for the opening score after 15 minutes.

This was followed a similar manoeuvre and try from Reuben Oliver following a quickly taken penalty.

An excellent handling move involving Adam Binks and Paddy Hay saw Oliver cross again, before the visitors reduced the deficit with a nice try of their own.

This might have given Consett hope but, just before half time, Zak Pearce ran in from his own 10-metre to restore the advantage at 22-5.

In the second half, Consett tired and the Centurions' tight five of Ethan Way, Binks, Rory Craney, Rhys and Owen Loughhead gained ascendancy.

This platform allowed the team to produce an exciting display of running rugby that often had their opponents chasing shadows. Several fine tries were scored, often from long range, with every pass seeming to stick.

Ben Common, Callum Young and Murtough all finished off fine moves involving Chris Nicholls and Steven Raine.

Pearce added two more to complete his hat-trick and the exciting Ewan Morrell helped himself to a brace.

Fly half Ward was able to knock over six conversions to complete the scoring in this outstanding performance.