Thornensians 15 Aireborough 14

A late penalty goal saw Thornensians steal Yorkshire Division Three victory from the grasp of Aireborough.

The home side had plenty of support but their large following was kept subdued until the late score settled the outcome.

Aire pressed the Thorne line in the opening minutes.

They forced a number of penalties before being awarded a penalty try which Nick Holdsworth converted for a 7-0 lead.

The lead was doubled eight minutes later when Holdsworth glided in for a try which he also converted.

With the Thorne team stung into action and their supporters stunned and silent the game developed into an arm wrestle.

With half-time fast app-roaching the deadlock was broken by a well-taken Thorne try which they also converted.

The home team narrowed the lead further with an unconverted try in the 75h minute.

With just one point separating the teams it was all to play for.

The game continued to be hard fought with Thorne gaining the win with a penalty in the last few minutes.

Aire can take some positives from an excellent team display but must realise that giving away too many penalties hands the initiative to the opposition - particularly in close games like this one where one score can be crucial.