West Park Leeds 33 Hartlepool BBOB 3

West Park had too much flair and pace for their visitors from the North East in this EDF Energy Junior Vase game but had to wait until the final quarter to secure the result.

The visitors started strongly, dominating possession and taking an early lead with a penalty in front of the posts. The hosts looked dangerous with the ball but carelessness led to too many unforced errors. The front row of Dan Smith, Tom Howard and Dan Stevens coped well with their hefty opponents while the pack as a unit grew in confidence throughout.

BBOB frequently kicked long for position and Ian Miller, making an encouraging debut on the wing, had to get back for a try saving tackle. The lead was taken just after the half-hour when classy centre Connor Armstrong supported on the inside to go over in the corner.

The lead was stretched ten minutes into the second-half when a shuddering tackle in midfield by Jack Bickerdike coughed up the ball. Half-back partner Jordan Wagner accepted the offering, outpacing the cover on a 60 metre run to the posts, Armstrong adding the first of his four successful conversions.

The outcome was determined from a scrum on the right, experienced centre Matt Stevens producing an angled run and inside ball to send Jason Whitehead over before making way for Sam Booth’s return from injury.

Armstrong was denied further scores twice in as many minutes, first by a late flag for a foot in touch, then when the referee ruled the ball had not been cleanly grounded. On the third occasion he unloaded to replacement Paul Minns who had a clear run to the line.

The final try came from Whitehead who had earlier snuffed out the visitors one attacking threat of the half with a textbook tackle. When the full-back received the ball on the 22 he had five defenders to beat but this proved to be an unequal contest.

BBOB proved to be excellent visitors, helping to make short work of a cask of their local ale that had been specially put on for the occasion. West Park await the fourth round draw with interest.

l West Park Warriors faced one of their sternest tests to date against a powerful and experienced Pontefract outfit but notched up a 29-12 win. They were 7-0 down at half-time but another strong second-half showing saw two tries from newcomer Toby and further scores from wingers Luke Gamble and Leon Birtles to seal the win that maintains the Warriors’ grip at the top of the Merit Table.

Evergreen hero Andy Clithero added a penalty and three conversions. The hosts finished much the stronger team, showing the benefit of the hard work that so many squad members are putting in on the training pitch.

l The Lions are growing into a formidable force with their heady blend of youth and experience and beat York Thirds 61-24.

Level 24 all at the midway point the second period turned into a rout with try scorers including Taffy Whittaker (2), John Veil, Chris, Diccon Crawshaw, Bryce Sweeney and a sparkling solo effort from 50 metres by flanker Ed Clothier.