Corbridge Centurions 5, Alnwick II 34

THE extra fitness levels of Alnwick II saw them inflict a heavy defeat on Corbridge Centurions.

The 29-point deficit was harsh on the Tynedale hosts, though, as they matched their strong, well-organised opponents for large spells, before the visitors' extra fitness levels took them out of sight.

The young Centurions side matched their guests, but were up against it as they had to battle a fierce wind for the opening 20 minutes.

It was a fairly even start with both sides using their strong forwards to drive close to the line, Adam Telfer, Ed Craney, Edd Cawthorn and young second rows Ben Blackburn and Nathan Washington all knocking on the door for Tyne.

However, Tynedale would often yield possession through mistakes, over-enthusiasm or conceding penalties which allowed Alnwick to clear the danger.

In contrast, the visitors were more cohesive and they were able to release their sharp three-quarters from close range for two good wingers' tries, one converted, to add to a penalty as Alnwick went into the break 20-0 ahead.

Corbridge stepped up their efforts after the restart and had the majority of possession, but they struggled to break through a resilient defence.

Only Jamie Murray was able to force his way over the line for an early try, to give his side hope of getting back in the game.

As time ran out, a lack of fitness among the hosts showed and Alnwick's two late converted tries gave the final scoreline a flattering look of 34-5.

Despite the result, there were promising displays from Colts duo John Clarkson and Jack Robson, while Ahmed Ahmed and Ryan Laverty showed nice touches on their first starts of the season.

Centre Adam Todhunter and full back Jake Sloan looked assured in both attack and defence, while the pacy Callum Young made a couple of blistering 50-metre as well as producing a courageous try-saving tackle.

With good support coming from Adam Harvey, Robbie Nixon, Gareth Little and Colin Murphy, there is huge potential throughout the team.