A DEPLETED Tynedale Raiders’ squad made the journey to Grassington in North Yorkshire expecting a challenging encounter against Wharfedale Forresters.

And despite some promising spells during the match, they slumped to a disappointing 57-3 defeat.

Wharfedale were on top in the early stages, and looked increasingly dangerous every time their left wing or full back had the ball in hand, and the hosts quickly built up a 14 point lead.

But the Raiders grew into the game, reaching some parity in the scrums, with talismanic captain Finlay Magowan stealing a line-out ball at will, and leading a pack resurgence along with Dicky Dunn, Charlie Richardson and debutant Rob Earnshaw.

The Raiders’ only score on a difficult day was a well-executed drop goal from Josh Bate. The half time whistle came with the score at 21-3 to Wharfedale, giving Tyne a glimmer of hope going into the second period.

However, a well-drilled Wharfdale outfit had other ideas and continued their dominant display.

It was a day to forget in the Yorkshire Dales, but the Raiders battled tirelessly until the final whistle. Sam Harrison impressed on his senior debut for the Tynedale side.