Wharfedale Foresters 66 North Ribblesdale 7.

THE Foresters have started this season to some effect. After two games, the first a comprehensive beating of Stourbridge 74-5, followed up by a most convincing victory against local rivals North Ribblesdale.

As is customary at this stage of the year the Greens have the odd new arrival, none more so this year than Frenchman Maxime Labasse, a good old fashioned Dales name, who introduced himself to the Wharfedale crowd with a scintillating display on the wing, scoring two tries and going the length of the field for one of them.

The Foresters made a few early mistakes and North Ribblesdale capitalised with the opening try. Former Greens player Ryan Gill shot clear under the posts as his side established a 7-0 led.

Ribblesdale threw everything they possibly could at the Greens in the first 15 minutes. Their backs were troublesome during this period with former Wharfedale vice-captain Adam Whaites at full back, stand-off Mick Thwaite and wingers Angus Carr and David Fox, looking threatening.

Harry Bullough and his half back partner Harry Skelton settled down to a steady, controlled pattern and bit by bit the required platform was built.

Skipper Tom Whyte, after strong Wharfedale forward pressure, muscled his way over the try line. The pressure from the Foresters was building and Robbie Davidson skipped over for a try which was converted by James Druce as they went 12-7 up.

The lively Davidson produced another good burst of speed to score the third try which Druce converted.

With the floodlights failing the match was switched to the second team pitch for the second half.

The Wharfedale pack, with Alistair Allen playing the full 80 minutes on his return from injury, exerted strong pressure on their opponents.

Tries came in a flurry via Will Davidson (2) Labasse (2), Phil Woodhead showing a fine burst of speed, Jack Kitching and Ben Booth.

Four very good conversions from Andy Rhodes and a further two from Druce, added to the Greens supporters feeling of well being.

At the moment the local bragging rights are with the Foresters, but only until Boxing Day when the eagerly awaited return fixture takes place.