Wharfedale 24 Fylde 24

FYLDE mounted a brilliant rearguard action to cling on for a National League One draw.

They had been reduced to 14 men for most of the match after a punch from full back Christopher Briers ended his afternoon.

Starved of possession in the first half, it was the devastating work of the Fylde backs that gave them a 24-7 lead at half-time.

Wharfedale were often camped in the visitors' 22 but when they spilled the ball they were punished.

There was admiration from the home crowd as Fylde ran in two tries and slotted a penalty to break the deadlock.

Tries were exchanged early on, with Chris Johnson crossing for Fylde and then Cameron Hudson finishing off a polished move for Dale. Johnson converted his own try and Jamie Guy added the extras for Dale.

The White Rose dominated but it was Fylde who scored, with Warren Spragg and Ralph Downs finishing off excellent handling from the Lancashire side.

Johnson converted one and Scott Rawlings the second before Johnson ended Fylde's scoring with a penalty.

Dale started the second half with intent but it was the absence of tackling that allowed winger Oli Cicognini in for a try which Guy converted.

A penalty from Guy then closed the gap to seven points before the Wharfedale pack drove over from a set-piece, Jack Barnard being awarded the score. Guy coolly brought the scores level with the conversion.