PRUDHOE & Stocksfield endured a difficult day at the hands of Northern Division Three leaders Redcar.

Hosts P&S were keen to continue their impressive start to 2020, but with only a small squad of 16 available, they slumped to a 71-15 defeat.

Ryan Chamberlain started at number six, with Dan Wright making his debut at seven. A full back line re-shuffle was also required with Yannick Debil starting at 12, and Gareth Nicholls making his first start on the right wing.

Disappointingly for P&S, it was evident from the opening stages that Redcar were up for the fight. Their direct running combined with intricate back play proved too hot to handle.

The visitors were clinical and demonstrated why they are looking to make an immediate return to Division Two as they scored nine tries in a fantastic display of attacking rugby.

Despite being second best, the hosts showed they were capable of playing good rugby and deservedly scored a couple of superb tries and a well struck penalty.

Strong forward play under the control of scrum half Nicholls kept things tight as P&S progressed up the field. Struggling to stay onside, the visitors eventually conceded a penalty in kicking distance which Chamberlain duly converted, into the strong headwind.

This was followed up with a great try after a prolonged spell of possession.

A good platform was set by the forwards before the play was spread out wide to Danny Whiley. He took contact well in front of the gain line and quick ball was provided to man of the match Chris Patterson who offloaded to the supporting Raji Kingman to carve through the defence and score under the posts.

Redcar were very structured in defence, but Debil, who had drifted back to his usual number eight position, bundled his way over to for a deserved try.

But the visitors took their opportunities with aplomb. They carried with menace and executed their basic skills to such a level that their mistakes were at a minimum.

Due to South Shields’ withdrawal from the league, P&S are not in action until March 28, when they take on another promotion contending team in Wallsend.