A frustrating Wednesday afternoon in Acomb ended in defeat, as promotion chasers York 2nds were knocked off the top of the Northern Conference by their old foes St. John’s, who took top spot respectively.
With 22 acres proving unfit for the rugby Varsity tournament a few weeks ago, this match was an attempt for the sides to set aside differences once and for all. However, with the added incentive of promotion at place, not forgetting pride, and the chance to extend their lead beyond their rivals at the tables’ summit, this had the makings of a classic.
The first half proved tough for York, and, in all essence, set the outlook for the majority of the game. With St. John’s proving clinical in their ability to take full-advantage of two penalties, and following up a try with a conversion, York had reason to be worried. Meanwhile, temperatures predictably began to flare on the pitch in typical derby-style fashion. A drop goal by number 10, James Mortimer had given the York following some hope to cling onto going into the second period, but in a match where they’d come up against a resolute defence, it wouldn’t be so easy.
Given the halftime score of 13 points to 3 in St. Johns’ favour, York were clearly in need of a change in the matches’ pendulum.
To add insult to the cause, York’s number 4 was forced off at the interval having picked up a injury for York.
Even after the break, St. John’s continued where they finished their opening 40 minutes, as another try and conversion extended their lead to 20 points to 3.
York followed up with a try of their own shortly after, reducing the gap to 20-8, to draw out some optimism from the York faithful. But, Mortimer’s conversion wasn’t quite so lucky as the ball managed to richochet back off the post and away from the goal. It was very much hand to the mouths stuff, and, in all respect, was symbolic of the team’s display on the day.
St. John’s responded by converting a penalty after another needless tackle was given against the team sporting yellow and black.
Although the team continued to battle on, pressing back the St. John defence, with Phil Johnson giving York their second try of the half in the latter stages, it appeared they were coming up against a firm St. John stronghold, who seemed intent on shutting their rivals out for as good as they had.
Dare I say it, following a disappointing York performance, it was St. John’s who took honours as well as the self-satisfaction of beating their city rivals on the day by a winning margin of 23 points to 13. However, the former will inevitably take heart from the overall season performance which looks to have nonetheless settled them for promotion.
All photos by Siobhan Crittenden.
