After a ferocious encounter last week against old rivals East Hull in the last of the summer 9 a side competition Beverley had to be tough in this league fixture as they returned to 13 a side game.
Whenever these sides meet there are not many points in it at full time and the Braves got off to a perfect start as they dominated the first ten minutes. James Sherwin made some fantastic runs using his pace accelerating fast and dodging tackles well.
Strong drives from the pack saw them edge towards East’s line and fast hands down the line starting with a superb pass from James McGahey finally reached Owen Harrison who forced his way brilliantly over the line for a impressive opening score which was a joy to watch.
Beverley looked confident in the blistering heat, Callum Officer as always gaining yards running straight and tackling clinically.
It was East Hull’s turn to put on the pressure as they retaliated well with a good try. With possession back to the Braves the end of the set saw a strong high kick from McGahey in front of the post which was spilled by East Hull.
Joe Wardill picked up the loose ball and ran out wide releasing the ball at the last minute to Harry Gray who supported so well and he powered over to edge the game back in Beverley’s favour. Harrison kicked well despite strong cross winds. East Hull upped the game though and dominated the minutes before half time running in two tries. Half time score 10 – 16.
It was up to Beverley to tighten their game as East Hull continued making some strong runs. Despite East Hull being a man down in this half they maintained possession well. Nathan Collinson tackled courageously and moved the ball around well and Harry Bulleyment made some fantastic runs.
Will Johnson managed to break through a series of tackles from his own half and from the ground made and some excellent team passing the ball found Johnson again who off loaded superbly to Dylan Clifford and he pounced over the line brilliantly to score. Johnson was influential again shortly after as he battled his way through numerous tackles and scored a fantastic try.
East Hull continued to run well and after a period of sustained pressure broke through to put points on the board. With only four points in it Beverley had to up the game. McGahey bravely regained possession for the Braves and a succession of excellent passes reached Wardill who powered over to level the score. Harrison kicked well and Beverley were in the lead.
East Hull kept the pressure on as they fought back, but a run down the wing from Wardill and timely pass found Darren Benstead who accelerated from half way, his speed out pacing the chasers brilliantly and he crossed the line moving in to place the ball down under the sticks with the biggest smile as he knew he had sealed victory for the Braves.
Harrison kicked and the whistle blew 30 – 22 to Beverley.
The Braves defended like their name and Man of the Match deservedly went to Will Johnson who was outstanding.
Beverley Braves U14 30 East Hull U14 22 | Reported by Sue Wardill
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