North Ribblesdale capitalise on Hullensians' indiscipline as they snatch victory

NORTH Ribblesdale capitalised on their opponents' indiscipline as they snatched victory in a gripping Grove Park encounter that was littered with errors.

It was pleasing to see the home side score three tries with the pick of them being the opening score from winger Simon Bolland in the 15th minute.

He scorched through the midfield to touch down near the posts from what was effectively Ribb’s first serious attack.

With their pack winning plenty of set-piece ball Ribb should have put their opponents under pressure.

Unfortunately, their forward play lacked direction and purpose. They failed to work at the the sort of speed that would have created gaps and overlaps and their moves were easy to defend. Once again too many forwards were loitering in the backs rather than grafting to recycle possession when moves were halted.

It meant that the ball carrier could easily become isolated and this gave Hullensians the chance for their first score.

A lone forward carried the ball into contact unsupported. His attempts to throw out a hopeful pass resulted in an interception try by Knapp.

Ten minutes later the same thing happened with Harding the beneficiary of similar carelessness.

Ribb were now struggling to contain the ascendant Hullensians rolling maul and conceded a stream of penalties as they were forced back onto their own line.

The inevitable score came when Dynam forced his way over from a rolling maul after his side had secured solid line-out possession.

Hullensians had the advantage of the wind in the second half as they set about defending their 19-14 lead.

The visitors used the elements to good effect and Ribb were indebted to full back Alex Naylor for relieving the building pressure with some bright counter attack.

It seemed that one more score would settle the game for Hullensians and when Vernon's long penalty had them camped on the home line, Ribb's followers feared the worst.

Desperate defence halted a rolling maul and an attacking scrum before good tackle fro, Steven Moon gave Nathan Dakin the chance to turn over the ball.

The pattern of the game changed as Hullensians received the first of three yellow cards. Ribb, with a one-man advantage, seized their chance. A good cross kick from Moon made Hullensians clear in the corner. Richard Wood, who had been impressive all game, burst off a maul and put David Fox in for an unconverted try which made it 19-19.

No sooner had the yellow card expired than Hullensians were given a new one. Ribb were now getting the edge in the scrum but play was still scrappy.

Just as the second yellow card ran out a third one was issued by the referee. Initially he awarded a penalty against Ribb but he reversed the decision for a stamp and sent the offender to the sin bin.

A penalty in the last five minutes by Jonathan Richards saw Ribb edge ahead. Although Hullensians tried they could not get back into a scoring position.

Ribb were fortunate that they kept their discipline and shape after they had given away two interception tries.

The game plan needs to be adhered to or changed if the forwards won’t accept the responsibility of being available to take the ball up.

Ribb should consider moving set piece ball to the potent Bolland who was the most dynamic runner on either side. Ribb are short of men but there is plenty of strength in depth if it’s a a little lightweight.

Wood was excellent when he came on, Matthew Knowles played well at hooker and Chris Lambert had another good scrummaging game.

A testing away trip lies in store at Malton on Saturday.