BATTLING against a high calibre of tough opposition and even tougher conditions, Ponteland came from behind to secure a good win again Seaton Carew in Northern Division Two.

Late changes due to illness saw a number of players playing in unfamiliar positions, and ensured the game was not going to be an easy one for the promotion chasing side.

Ponteland started strongly, but it was the hosts who put the first points on the board. Five minutes in, their scrum half made a sniping run against the run of play and went over to score.

The visitors took just nine minutes to reply through full back Patrick Holliday. Dancing through a series of tackles, he worked his way through to score the first of his three tries. Owen Reed converted well into the wind and took the Maroons into the lead with the score at 7-5.

Ten minutes later, Holliday was in again, adding the points from another spectacular run from long range.

Chris Searle received a yellow after an altercation with the referee, and was sent for a 10-minute spell on the sidelines. Seaton Carew capitalised shortly after and followed up with a successful conversion in the 27th minute to level the scores.

Both teams were now using the pick and drive to combat the elements but a pass out to Holliday saw him break free to complete his hat-trick on the half hour mark.

The Maroons were losing the battle with the wind, however, and began to make continuous unforced handling errors. Seaton Carew capitalised, and a bout of sustained pressure saw two quick tries in two minutes for the lead just before the break.

Ponteland were able to regroup at half time and, after a few strong words, they were ready for a big second half performance.

Several break outs were made, and eventually number eight Courtney West went in from short range to score. Reed added the extras and the visitors were back in the lead just five minutes into the second half.

Straight from the kick off, Ponteland were on the front foot once again, driving forward an offload to Sean Bettison, who did his trademark scuttle from 35 metres to outstrip the defence and extend the lead to 29-22.

The remainder of the game saw both teams battle hard in the ferocious wind. No further scores were added, but second placed Ponteland came away with a vital victory in their promotion push.