THE 13 men of Tynedale’s third team, Corbridge Centurions, battled well despite losing to Hartlepool’s strong second team.

The young side were down to 12 when they lost the influential Dan Lowdon at half time to injury, yet the performance against the odds on a big, heavy pitch won them much praise from their hosts.

It was an uphill challenge for Centurions as they quickly conceded four converted tries as they attempted to organise and cover the huge gaps due to their numerical disadvantage.

But after that initial 20 minute period, Tynedale fought courageously and the rest of the game was fairly evenly contested.

When the game was at close quarters, Tyned rucked and mauled successfully against a much bigger pack. As a result of good driving play by Lowdon, Ben Blackburn and Ed Craney, scrum half Andrew Harvey was able to dive over theatrically just before half time.

In the second period, the Centurions were much more involved. Joe Richards made two exciting runs from half-way and the 10-metre line to set up tries for Arthur Guest.

Adam Todhunter then spotted a gap and sailed through for a fine try from 20 metres, and he also managed to slot three conversions to add to his fine kicking from the hand.

Although Rovers were able to score fairly regularly throughout, Tynedale were held up just short on at least three occasions with excellent driving play from Adam Binks, Rory Craney, Nathan Washington and Jack Robson.

Rob Nixon was unlucky when a pass missed him with a clear view of the line and he just failed to cling onto another difficult half chance.

While the early signs suggested a Hartlepool rout, the youngsters at Tynedale gave a great account of themselves and can hold their heads high after a brave display.