Rugby Club Hit Top Form
Newton Aycliffe 60 Washington 0|
Newton Aycliffe rugby club hosted rivals Washington, who finished above them in the league last season, in a friendly at Moore Lane. A close match was expected, but it was not to be! The opening forward exchanges were robust, but, from the outset, Aycliffe had an edge in both scrummage and lineout. The home backs looked quicker throughout and the first try was scored after a jinking run from Luke Tinkler was stopped with Jonathan Stevens in support collecting the pass to score in the corner. Captain, and Aycliffe man of the match, Gareth Parsonage added a second, reacting quickest to a loose ball, with Tinkler converting. The third try of the half was added by Drew Gibson, on his return from Uganda, with a hard won score in the corner. The half-time score was 17 – 0 to Aycliffe. The second half saw a number of substitutions from both sides. After a period of Washington pressure, Aycliffe scored another try when Andy Newman added to his pre-season tries with a score under the posts. |
Andrew Parkin scored, after fielding his own kick through, to further increase the lead. The final quarter of the game became something of a rout with five further tries being added. Scrum-half Paul Soakell scored after a line-out catch and drive. Steve Blair scored with an extravagant dummy after exchanging passes with Newman. Newman added his second, running the ball in from 60 metres. Tinkler scored with a looping run and Blair doubled his tally with the final play of the game. Tinkler added a further four conversions in the half. The final score of 60 – 0, coming after the previous week’s excellent display against a strong Darlington side showed much promise for the season to come. Anyone who would like to play at Aycliffe, of whatever standard, is welcome to attend training on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7pm, contact Bob Malvern on 07951 157291. On Saturday 8th September Aycliffe open their Durham Junior League campaign at home to Durham City 3rd XV, up-to-date information can be found on the website at www.ayclifferugby.co.uk. © Stuart McIvor 5th Sept 2007 |
|
Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club returned to action with a pre-season warm-up match at Knaresborough on18th August. Aycliffe fielded few changes from last season although Darryl Pettit returned after missing much of the previous year. The game was played in four quarters to enable the coaches to try a range of different combinations. The game began with Knaresborough’s larger pack keeping control of the ball, whilst Aycliffe were rather rushing things. Knaresborough came close to scoring before finally opening matters with a try which was not converted. A second Knaresborough try followed, but gradually Aycliffe began to get into the game. The second quarter belonged to Aycliffe; quick ruck ball from the forwards enabled the backs to use their pace to stretch the defence. After a number of chances, Aycliffe got onto the scoreboard when a planned move saw captain, Gareth Parsonage, lay the ball off to Andy Newman who scored under the posts. Luke Tinkler added the kick. Further pressure could not be turned onto points and the half time score was 10 – 7 to the home team. |
The changes made by the two teams at half time seemed to be to Knaresborough’s advantage as they put Aycliffe under steady pressure and added 4 tries to their total in the third quarter; the Knaresborough players beginning to find gaps in the visiting defence. In the fourth period, Aycliffe applied more pressure but were unable to add further scores. Tiring, they conceded two tries in the dying minutes to leave the score 39 – 7 to the hosts. This was a rather disappointing start to the season, but some areas of promise were apparent which will be built on as the season proper approaches. After the match, the Knaresborough players were most hospitable as many of the Aycliffe team spent the evening in the town. Anyone who would like to play at Aycliffe, of whatever standard, is welcome to attend training on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7pm, contact Bob Malvern on 07951 157291. On Saturday 25th August, Aycliffe are hoping to play another warm-up against a Darlington squad, up-to-date information will be on the website at www.ayclifferugby.co.uk. © Author Stuart McIvor 22/08/07 |
News From January 2006
Aycliffe Finish Season on a High
Newton Aycliffe 59 Washington 17|
As part of Newton Aycliffe Sports Club’s 50th Anniversary, the Rugby Club hosted Washington in a friendly to end the season. Despite a number of regular players being on holiday, Aycliffe were able to field a team with a strong backline against their close rivals, who also fielded a somewhat weakened team.
Aycliffe began well when a burst by Gareth Parsonage and Luke Tinkler saw Darryl Pettit on hand to score his first try of the season. Further good work by the backs saw Parsonage and Andy Newman score tries after some of the best play seen by Aycliffe this season. Captain Ronnie Gilyeat was well to the fore, both winning lineouts and popping up in the back line at crucial moments. Washington struck back with a try, before Paul Ellis strolled over the line, generously giving the try to Andrew Parkin. A try from Paul Soakell completed the scoring for the half with Tinkler converting all the tries for a 35 – 5 half-time lead. |
Washington fought back at the start of the second half with two tries as Aycliffe relaxed. As the visitors tired Aycliffe’s forwards began to take the upper hand and Aycliffe added more tries from Steven Blair (his first for the club), Mark Archbold, and Parsonage who completed his hat trick. Tinkler and Soakell added further conversions to leave the final score a handsome 59 – 17 to Aycliffe. If the backs can play like this next season and a few forwards can be recruited, Aycliffe can look forward to some good results in future.
The Rugby Club’s AGM will be held on 29th May at 7pm at the Sports Club and all members are asked to attend. Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club would like to thank all their sponsors including Specsavers Opticians. © Stuart McIvor 08/05/07 |
Aycliffe Scrape A Victory
Acklam Talbots 24 Newton Aycliffe 26|
Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club visited Acklam Talbots on 21st April in a hastily arranged fixture after the original game had been cancelled. Acklam were only able to raise 12 players and so Aycliffe lent men to them to even out the teams.
On a good day for rugby, Aycliffe began strongly with the backs using their speed to good advantage. Within 2 minutes, Luke Tinkler had opened the scoring with a try under the posts which Tommy Cooper converted. Soon afterwards, Andrew Parkin broke away to add a second try, with Cooper again adding the extra points. Acklam then began to use their experience in the forwards to pile the pressure on Aycliffe and, after having one try disallowed, were able to score to narrow the gap. A second try reduced the gap to 14 – 10 at the half time whistle. A typical individual effort by Gareth Parsonage increased Aycliffe’s lead to two scores early in the second half. |
Acklam continued to battle hard in the forwards and, when an Aycliffe counter attack was thwarted, Acklam broke away to score from 40 metres out, the conversion reducing the gap to 2 points. A stolen Acklam lineout then resulted in Andrew Parkin adding his second try with Cooper’s kick restoring the 9 point differential. Acklam continued attacking and had another try disallowed before scoring under the posts with the last play of the game, the conversion leaving the score 26 - 24 to Aycliffe.
This was a poor Aycliffe performance against a scratch Acklam side, with individual efforts gaining most of the points. On 5th May Aycliffe will host Washington in a special match as part of the celebrations for the 50th anniversary of Newton Aycliffe Sports Club. Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club would like to thank all their sponsors including Specsavers Opticians. © Stuart McIvor 24/04/07 |
Aycliffe fell the Strain
Sunderland 3rd XV 29 Newton Aycliffe 12|
Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club visited Durham Junior League leaders Sunderland on a bright sunny day for their latest match. A number of the first choice forwards were missing, but Aycliffe were able to field a strong set of backs.
It was apparent from the outset that Sunderland, with their large and experienced pack, would dominate the forward battle and so Aycliffe’s backs would have to survive on a minority of possession. When they did get the ball, Gareth Parsonage and Drew Gibson both looked menacing. In defence, Aycliffe’s tackling, particularly by David Gibson and Paul Ellis was of a high standard. The pressure finally told when Sunderland scored a try, which was converted. The half time score was 7 – 0 to Sunderland, but Aycliffe were still hopeful that their greater pace would see them to victory. |
Injury depleted the Aycliffe backs early in the second half and, despite good displays by the replacements, including Peter Howlett, who showed good potential despite his inexperience, the cutting edge was lost. The pressure from the Sunderland forwards increased as they were able to substitute fresh legs for those that were beginning to tire. Four further tries were added, but Aycliffe refused to give up and, in fact, began to dominate in the line-outs. A number of attacks were launched in the final minutes, but Aycliffe were unable to score. The final result was 29 – 0 to Sunderland.
On 14th April, Aycliffe visit Darlington Mowden Park 3rd XV in a friendly, kick-off is at 3:00. Newton Aycliffe would like to thank all their sponsors including Specsavers Opticians. © Stuart McIvor 11/04/07 |
Another Narrow Defeat for Aycliffe
Newton Aycliffe 12 Consett 3rds 18|
After a run of away games, Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club hosted Consett for a friendly at Moore Lane. Aycliffe were able to field a large squad, although short of forwards. The game was played with a gale force wind blowing sideways across the pitch.
The big Consett pack immediately made their presence felt, becoming dominant in the scrums and mauls. Aycliffe tackled well, as usual, and looked to have the edge in the backs, but Consett had the lion’s share of possession. Tries were inevitable and, after half an hour, Consett had scored three, although they could not convert any in the tricky conditions. From 15 – 0 down, Aycliffe rallied and, with back rows Jason Forrest and Dave Gibson linking well with the backs, Drew Gibson scored an excellent try which Luke Tinkler was able to convert. The half time score remained 15 – 7. |
In the second half, Consett began to tire and Aycliffe gained a bit more possession. When Sean Alderson and Gareth Parsonage combined through the middle, with Alderson scoring his second try in two weeks, a recovery seemed on the cards. A number of substitutions were made as Aycliffe endeavoured to gain the lead, but chances remained scarce. Consett increased the lead with a penalty goal and the final score was 18 – 12 to the Derwentside team. Aycliffe felt that this was a game they could have won, but the lack of bulk up front again proved a weakness. On 24th March, Aycliffe host Horden 3rd XV in a friendly, kick-off is at 3:00. Newton Aycliffe would like to thank all their sponsors including Specsavers Opticians. Stuart McIvor 21/03/07 |
Narrow Semi-final Defeat for Aycliffe
Seaham 12 Newton Aycliffe 5|
Newton Aycliffe travelled to Seaham in the semi-final of the Durham County Plate. This was the first time the two teams had met for a number of years. Aycliffe were able to take a strong squad for the match played in good weather.
Straight from the kick-off, Seaham showed their potential by attacking through their forwards. A series of penalties by Aycliffe saw Seaham get within range to kick at goal but it went wide. Seaham continued pressing before going ahead with an unconverted try. Aycliffe who had been struggling in the scrums managed to get parity in the forwards and began to look threatening themselves. Good backs moves came close to breaking the Seaham defence. An Aycliffe penalty kick went narrowly wide before the scores were equalised when Andy Newman was on the end of a Gareth Parsonage break to score a try. Aycliffe were on top for the rest of the half with the advantage of the breeze. The half time score remained 5 – 5. Captain Ronnie Gilyeat rallied the troops |
in the second half and the game became more open with both sides having chances to score. As the game went on, a draw was looking likely which would have put Aycliffe into the final as the away team. The Seaham team were beginning to show more stamina than their rivals. The Aycliffe tackling was superb in a battling rearguard action, but after dropping the ball a number of times with the line at their mercy, Seaham finally made the breakthrough with a converted try. With time running out, Aycliffe tried desperately to get back into the game, but to no avail. The final score was 12 – 5 to Seaham who go into the final. On the day Seaham were the better team and their win was merited, but it was a case of ‘so near yet so far’ for Aycliffe.
On 10th March, Aycliffe visit Winlaton Vulcans in a Durham Junior League match, kick-off is at 3:00pm. Newton Aycliffe would like to thank all their sponsors including Specsavers Opticians. Author Stuart McIvor |
Aycliffe Win Again
Newton Aycliffe 36 Chester le Street 2nds 0|
Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club were presented with sponsored match balls by Specsavers Opticians before this Durham Junior League match against Chester le Street. After having well beaten Chester away earlier in the season, a large win was expected against depleted opposition who arrived with only 13 players.
Aycliffe were on top early on, but good work from the Chester pack ensured that no points were scored in the opening quarter of the game. The deadlock was finally broken when Andrew Parkin latched on to the end of a flowing move to score a try. A typical darting run from Gareth Parsonage increased the lead soon after, with Tommy Cooper adding the conversion. A third try was scored when Joe Watson showed his opposite number a clean pair of heels to cross in the corner. The half-time score was 17 – 0. |
The Chester forwards struggled manfully in the second-half but had no answer when the speedy Aycliffe backs were able to find space. A further try by Parkin started the scoring for the half. A good break by Aycliffe’s man-of the-match David Gibson saw Parsonage on hand to score his second, which Cooper again converted. The scoring was completed by a solo effort from Luke Tinkler, who converted his own score to leave Aycliffe 36 –0 victors.
This was a workmanlike performance from Aycliffe who never really got out of second gear, but never looked like conceding any points. On 3rd March, Aycliffe visit Seaham in the semi-final of the Durham County trophy, kick-off is at 3:00. Newton Aycliffe would like to thank all their sponsors including Specsavers and ServiceForce. Author Stuart McIvor |
Well-Deserved Victory
Durham City 3rds 6 Newton Aycliffe 15|
Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club returned to Durham Junior League action with a visit to old rivals Durham City 3rd XV. New recruit John Bainbridge bolstered the back row whilst a strong back line was again available.
The match was played in perfect weather and the Aycliffe backs were quick to make a number of attacks. When Stuart McIvor won a clean line out ball in the Aycliffe 22 metre area, the resulting breakout saw Drew Gibson hauled down yards short of the line. Whenever Durham threatened the Aycliffe line, excellent tackling stopped the attack in its tracks. Aycliffe were feeling confident and chose to run the ball when a penalty kick at goal was on offer. This looked as though it may have been a mistake when, with the last kick of the half, Durham took a 3-0 lead with a penalty of their own. Early in the second half,Aycliffe equalised the scores with a Tommy Cooper penalty. Running the ball, from their own half, Aycliffe then manufactured an overlap from which |
Andy Newman was able to run the try in from 30 metres.
When an attacking kick from Durham was charged down, the ball rebounded into the hands of Gareth Parsonage who ran half the length of the pitch to score; Luke Tinkler converted. Durham replied with a penalty goal. Durham now began to apply pressure as time ran out; good forward work saw them punch over the line, but an excellent tackle from Paul Soakell drove them back without being able to touch down. The Aycliffe defence held out for the rest of the match for a hard-fought and well-deserved victory.
This win, the first in many years over this opposition, consolidates Aycliffe’s position of 3rd in the league with games in hand. On 24th February, Aycliffe host Chester le Street 2nd XV in another league match, kick-off is at 2:15. A team photograph will be taken with sponsors Specsavers Opticians. Author Stuart McIvor |
Aycliffe Defeat Elements
Jarrovians 6 Newton Aycliffe 25|
Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club travelled to Jarrovians in the first round of the Durham County Plate. On arrival, they found that the pitch was nearly waterlogged and the weather was very wet with a bitingly cold wind. It was obviously going to be a game for the forwards!
From the beginning, Aycliffe kept the ball close and attacked with vigour, coming close to scoring on two occasions through Joe Watson and Ronnie Gilyeat. Jarrow came back and were awarded a penalty, which was well kicked to give them the lead. Aycliffe struck back when Andrew Parkin picked up the ball at the back of a ruck and ran clean through the defence to score; Tommy Cooper added the conversion. A further Jarrow penalty narrowed the lead to one point before a Cooper penalty stretched it again. A Ryan Milford try extended the lead to 15 – 6 at the break. The strong wind was at Aycliffe’s back for the second half, | and they used it to their advantage, although the lineouts were difficult to control. A long kick and chase by Milford almost resulted in a try. Aycliffe were now camped in their opponents’ territory and added tries from Gilyeat and Alan Layfield to build up a seemingly unassailable lead. At this point with the ground cutting up badly and the players in danger of hypothermia, it was decided to end the game early. Aycliffe were victors by 25 points to 6 and now enter the draw for the semi-finals of this 8-team tournament.
The performance of the Aycliffe forwards in this match in which they were considered underdogs was an excellent fillip for the rest of the season. On 17th February, Aycliffe visit Durham City 3rd XV in the Durham Junior League, kick-off is at 2:15. Newton Aycliffe. Rugby Club would like to thank all their sponsors, including Specsavers Opticians. Author Stuart McIvor |
Aycliffe Outgunned
Newton Aycliffe 0 Blaydon 3rd XV 32|
Newton Aycliffe Rugby hosted Blaydon 3rd XV on 3rd February. Having lost the away fixture in December, Aycliffe knew that these were the toughest opponents of the season, having beaten Aycliffe 44 – 10 before Christmas. Aycliffe were missing some of their best players but were still able to turn out a good team.
It was obvious from the great difference in size between the two teams, that Aycliffe would have to use the speed of their backs if they were going to get any joy from the afternoon. The early play saw Aycliffe making a number of attacks with Gareth Parsonage and Paul Ellis to the fore, but they were unable to score any points. Blaydon took the lead with a try but were unable to convert. After holding their own in the scrums, Aycliffe began to wilt under the pressure and Blaydon were now dominating in the forwards. Two more tries left the score 15 – 0 at half time. The second half continued in the same manner, but Aycliffe fought gamely throughout with Sean Cairns and Alan Layfield | making themselves felt in the loose play.
Some superb tackling by the whole team, and David Gibson in particular, was unable to stop Blaydon adding two further tries. Aycliffe used 5 substitutes but were not weakened in any way. With the referee indicating the final play of the game, Aycliffe ran the ball, attempting to score a consolation try, but lost the ball and Blaydon were able to make the most of the Aycliffe players being out of position to score a converted try giving them a 32 – 0 victory. This was another good defensive performance by Aycliffe, but the lack of bulk in the forwards was again a problem.
On 10th February, Aycliffe travel to Jarrovians for the first round of the Durham County Plate, kick-off will be at 2.15. Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club wish to thank their sponsors, particularly Specsavers Opticians. More details are available on the website at www.ayclifferugby.co.uk. Author Stuart McIvor |
Aycliffe Stretch Bishop
Newton Aycliffe 15 Bishop Auckland 26|
Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club hosted neighbours Bishop Auckland in their latest friendly. Bishop brought a near full strength side to Moore Lane and were expecting an easy victory. Aycliffe were able to field a strong set of backs with Andy Newman returning from the Gulf, but were forced to play with uncontested scrums due to the lack of prop forwards.
The first 5 minutes saw Aycliffe dominant, using superior pace to rip holes in Bishop’s defence, but Bishop settled down and went on the attack themselves. Poor Aycliffe tackling saw the visitors cross for three tries in quick succession, all well converted, to see the score stand at 21 – 0 with less than a quarter of an hour on the clock. Aycliffe now began to play with more composure and Paul Ellis and Newman made good breaks. Good handling saw the ball speed out to the wing where Joe Watson was able to touch down in the corner to make the score 21 – 5 at the break. |
Aycliffe continued to apply the pressure in the second half and a powerful run saw Ellis cross for another try to reduce the deficit. Then, however, another defensive lapse saw Bishop add a try against the run of play. Needing three tries to win the game, Aycliffe redoubled their efforts and when Andrew Parkin found himself free in attack, he was able to find man of the match Watson on his shoulder to score his second of the day. Concerted pressure in the final minutes saw Bishop defending fiercely and the no further score was added. The final score of 26 – 15 was Aycliffe’s best result against this opposition for years, but they were left rueing the mountain they had left themselves to climb after their poor start.
The game on 27th January has still to be confirmed; kick-off will be at 2.15pm. More details are available on the website at www.ayclifferugby.co.uk. Author Stuart McIvor |
Blown to Victory
Newton Aycliffe 12 Washington 5|
League high-flyers Washington paid a visit to Moore Lane to face Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club on 13th January. Both teams fielded strong sides with a full set of replacements on a very windy afternoon.
The match began with Aycliffe, playing with the wind, taking the game to their opponents. Five minutes of solid pressure ended when Drew Gibson was given a little space on the wing, he beat his man on the outside before feeding the ball inside to Andrew Parkin who scored under the posts. Tommy Cooper added the conversion. Aycliffe continued using their extra pace against the larger Washington pack and added a second try when prop Andy Kennedy took a penalty quickly and powered over in the corner. Breaks by Gareth Parsonage and, Aycliffe’s man of the match, Luke Tinkler came close to adding further points, but the half time score remained 12 – 0. |
Washington began the second period with good use of the wind to keep Aycliffe penned into their own half. Good defending by Aycliffe and dropped ball by Washington prevented any score until a long pass, well caught by the Washington winger, resulted in a try. Both teams kept up the relentless pressure for the rest of the match in an exciting finale with Aycliffe just holding out for a hard fought victory, 12 – 5.
This result sees Aycliffe consolidate third place in the Durham Junior League, with Washington in first place. The game on 20th January is still to be confirmed; kick-off will be at 2.15pm. More details are available on the website at www.ayclifferugby.co.uk. Author Stuart McIvor |
League Hopes Fade for Aycliffe
Houghton 2nds 24 Newton Aycliffe 5
06/01/07|
Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club renewed their Durham Junior League campaign with a visit to Houghton 2nd XV. Unavailability meant that Aycliffe were unable to field a recognised front row and the game had to go ahead with uncontested scrummages, Andy Whyte filling the tight-head prop position.
With an unfamiliar pack taking time to settle, Houghton were clearly on top from the start, scoring a try after 10 minutes. With Aycliffe's forwards further depleted through injury, a second try was added before a penalty try for Houghton also resulted in a sin-binning, leaving Aycliffe a man down for 10 minutes. Another Houghton try left the half time score 24 - 0 to the home team. In the second half, Aycliffe began to fight back. The forwards began to improve markedly and, as the half went on, they began to get on top in the rucks. The lineout became an area of dominance with Stuart McIvor producing quick ball for the backs. |
Driving runs by Alan Layfield and Ryan Milford kept Houghton on the back foot. With Aycliffe's man of the match Gareth Parsonage and centre Paul Ellis launching the backs into a number of attacks, tries were only denied by a spate of penalties by Houghton. Aycliffe kept trying to run the ball, spurning kicks at goal, but the defence held. The score finally came through an excellent try in which forwards and backs combined at pace, before flanker David Gibson received the ball on the wing to score his first ever try for the club. Time ran down before any further points could be added and Aycliffe were left rueing their first half performance which looks to have ended any lingering hopes of winning the league. The full time score was 24 - 5.
On Saturday 13th January, Aycliffe host current league leaders Washington in another league match kick-off will be at 2.15pm. More details are available on the website at www.ayclifferugby.co.uk. Author Stuart McIvor |
|
Newton Aycliffe rugby club travelled to Middlesbrough at short notice to play the host club's 3rd team, who were strengthened by a number of players from higher teams. With a number of players unable to make the trip, it was pleasing that there were 18 players available; Luke Tinkler played at scrum half for the first time. Bob Malvern was asked to referee and so Aycliffe had to borrow Middlesbrough players to fill in at front-row.
The game kicked off late in gloomy conditions and Middlesbrough were straight on the attack. Driving play from the forwards saw them gain the territorial advantage and the upper hand in the scrummage. A quickly taken penalty saw Middlesbrough score the first points with a try out wide. Poor Aycliffe tackling saw a second Middlesbrough try, which was converted, before Tommy Cooper added a penalty kick. A third Middlesbrough try saw them leading 19 - 3 at the break. |
Middlesbrough added a further try at the beginning of the second half, but then Aycliffe final found their form. The scrummage began to function and a number of driving mauls resulted from lineout takes by Ronnie Gilyeat. Driving runs by Paul Ellis and Michael Halliday stretched the defence and a try seemed inevitable. The Middlesbrough defence held out however, and with the light fading, the game was terminated early with no further addition to the score of 24 - 3.
After the poor start, this was a good performance by Aycliffe against opposition who had scored a much larger victory in this season's first meeting. On Saturday 6th January Aycliffe visit Houghton 2nd XV for a Durham County Junior League match kick-off will be at 2.15pm. More details are available on the website at www.ayclifferugby.co.uk. Author Stuart McIvor |
| Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club travelled to Blaydon for their first match against this top club in many years. A squad of 17 players made the journey, with Luke Tinkler, Alan Layfield and Joe Watson returning.
The game started with Aycliffe under pressure in the loose from a large and relatively young pack, although the set scrummages were solid. Early pressure was withstood before a Tommy Cooper penalty gave Aycliffe the lead. During the first half, Aycliffe, whilst not gaining the majority of the possession, always looked likely to score through their pacy backs, but it was Blaydon who scored the first try after poor Aycliffe tackling. The lead was restored when Michael Halliday scored a breakaway try, which Cooper converted. A second Blaydon tried tied the scores, and a third gave them a 15 - 10 lead at the interval. |
After a dressing down from their coach, Blaydon came out firing at the start of the second half and scored three tries early in the period, the combination of size and speed being hard to stop. Aycliffe dug in from then on and good tackling from David Gibson, amongst others, kept the score down. Blaydon scored two further tries but the game ended with Aycliffe on the attack and they were unlucky that a number of thrusts toward the line came to nothing. The game finished 44 - 10 to a Blaydon side who were the best opponents faced by Aycliffe this season.
On Saturday 23rd December Aycliffe host Westoe Senators kick-off will be at 2.15pm, the game will be followed by the club's Christmas party. Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club would like to thank all their sponsors, in particular, ServiceForce. More details are available on the website at www.ayclifferugby.co.uk. Author Stuart McIvor |
|
Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club hosted Sunderland 3rd XV, one of the best teams in the Durham Junior League on 9th December. Despite a number of regular players being unavailable, Aycliffe were able to call on the services of Pete Ryans at centre, while the pack was strengthened by the return of Andrew Pettler from university.
The Sunderland side were full of experience and fielded a very large pack of forwards. Sunderland took advantage of early Aycliffe indecision to encamp themselves close to the line but the Aycliffe defence was of its usual high standard and no points were scored. On a rare foray upfield, Aycliffe were awarded a penalty, which Tommy Cooper slotted to take the lead. Sunderland struck back with a converted try to go ahead. Aycliffe now began to improve and a break down the blindside wing by Ryans was found Drew Gibson supporting well to score in the corner. Sunderland regained the lead, 10 - 8, with a penalty kick. Possibly the defining moment of the game came when, with Sunderland seeming certain to score, Andrew Parkin pulled off a superb tackle in the corner. Soon after, some loose passing by Sunderland saw Gareth Parsonage pinch the ball and score from 30 metres; Cooper converted. The half time score was 15 - 10 to Aycliffe. |
Early Aycliffe pressure in the second half saw Pettler tackled inches short, but Parsonage was on hand to dab the ball down for another converted try. The Aycliffe backs and forwards now began to play the best rugby seen at Moore Lane this season. With Deryk Cairns driving the forwards and Ryans' cool head in the backs, more tries were inevitable. A break by Stuart McIvor and Pettler saw Ryans add another try, while Michael Halliday added a solo effort. For 15 minutes, Aycliffe took their foot off the pedal until, with the final play of the match, good interplay saw captain Ryan Milford released by Ryans to score from 30 metres out, his first ever try for Aycliffe. Cooper rounded off matters with his fifth successful conversion of the afternoon. The final result was a highly satisfying 43 -10 victory to leave Aycliffe in a strong league position.
On Saturday 16th December Aycliffe travel to Blaydon kick-off will be at 2.15 pm. Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club would like to thank all their sponsors, in particular, ServiceForce. More details are available on the website at www.ayclifferugby.co.uk. |
|
Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club travelled up the A1 to play Chester le Street 2nds in a Durham County Junior League fixture. Chester had indicated that they only had 9 players and Aycliffe were expecting to lend players to them, but on arrival, it was found that Chester had been reinforced by a large contingent of Washington players whose game had been cancelled.
Yet again Aycliffe found themselves facing a larger pack and had to face some competent mauling. After soaking up the early pressure, Aycliffe broke loose with Gareth Parsonage embarking on a typically strong mazy run. After beating half the Chester team, Parsonage released the ball wide to the supporting Andrew Parkin who touched down behind the posts. Tommy Cooper added the conversion. When Luke Tinkler added a try from a solo effort mid-way through the half, which Cooper also converted, the victory seemed assured. Now, however, Aycliffe relaxed and allowed the Chester forwards to gain the ascendancy resulting in two tries, one converted, to leave the half-time score 14 - 12 to Aycliffe. |
Aycliffe's malaise continued into the opening minutes of the second period, in which the returning players Richie Hackett and Alex Lineton joined the fray. Eventually, Aycliffe began to dominate again as the Chester pack tired. A number of promising breaks were just stopped by the defence before Tinkler added his second try of the match, which was again converted. A Cooper penalty increased the lead before the scoring was completed with the best move of the day. Paul Soakell made a break from the back of a scrum and with the Aycliffe forwards recycling the ball quickly from the ensuing ruck, the ball was passed along the backs, with lock, Ronnie Gilyeat making the extra man and making a beautifully timed pass, Hackett was able to score unopposed. Cooper completed his day's work by maintaining his 100% record with his fifth kick of the day. The final score was a satisfactory 31 - 12 for a third consecutive victory in the league.
On Saturday 2nd December Aycliffe host Richmondshire 2nds in a friendly match, kick-off will be at 2.15 pm. Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club would like to thank all their sponsors, in particular, ServiceForce. More details are available on the website at www.ayclifferugby.co.uk. Author Stuart McIvor |
| Newton Aycliffe hosted a strong Billingham team in a friendly fixture. A number of different faces were present in an unfamiliar line-up, with Darrell McLaren and Richie Hackett making return visits. Alan Layfield, formerly of Shildon strengthened the back-row.
Aycliffe played into the wind in the first half and had the better of the initial exchanges. After five minutes, however, Aycliffe's organisation went to pot and Billingham surged into a 19-0 lead with 3 tries in the first 20 minutes. The Aycliffe team was now in some disarray, with uncharacteristically poor defence. Billingham had the advantage in the scrummage, while the lineouts were evenly matched. They managed to settled themselves down to battle hard for the remainder of the half, conceding only one more try to trail by 26 - 0 at the interval. Injuries meant that the scrummages had to go uncontested and disrupted the lineouts. The second period saw further improvement from Aycliffe and a lineout won by Ronnie Gilyeat |
saw Paul Soakell release the backs, whose slick passing released Richie Hackett to go over in the corner, Tommy Cooper's conversion attempt was narrowly wide. The remainder of the game was a fairly dour affair both sides being unable to find any fluency in the backs. Billingham completed the scoring with a further try near the end for the game to end 31 - 5 in their favour.
The first half saw Aycliffe's worst rugby of the season, due, in part to a number of unfamiliar faces in the line-up. The second half display was a great improvement and showed that the team's spirit remains strong. On Saturday 18th November, Aycliffe are away to Hartlepool 2nds for a friendly, kick-off is at 2.15 pm. Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club would like to thank all their sponsors, in particular, ServiceForce. More details are available on the website at www.ayclifferugby.co.uk. Author Stuart McIvor |
|
Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club came across a big and well organised side when they visited Middlesbrough to play their 3rd XV in a friendly match. Aycliffe took a squad of 17 players to the game.
From the outset the much larger Middlesbrough forwards battered the Aycliffe line, but the defence held and Aycliffe counter-attacked with Paul Ellis making a number of thrusts through the Middlesbrough lines. Aycliffe, despite struggling in the scrummage, were able to win more than their share of lineout ball through Ronnie Gilyeat and Stuart McIvor. The home side, however, re-asserted their forward dominance and a series of well-controlled mauls saw them score a number of tries and by half-time they had a commanding 33 - 0 lead. Aycliffe were not going to fold in the face of the onslaught though, and showed the spirit that has been evident this season when, straight from the kick-off Ronnie Gilyeat attacked a gap in the Middlesbrough line. The ball went through numerous pairs of hands but the attack was finally stifled. |
After absorbing more pressure, Aycliffe scored from a Paul Soakell clearance kick. The ball bounced high on the hard surface and Drew Gibson was first to it, with a sudden acceleration he outpaced the defenders to run in from 70 metres. Tommy Cooper landed the conversion. Middlesbrough were, however, able to add two more tries before the end to win by 47 - 7.
Aycliffe again found their lack of size in the forwards to be a disadvantage, and when the opposition are as well organised as Middlesbrough, a good "big 'un" usually defeats a good "little 'un". The tackling was again excellent throughout the team. On Saturday 11th November, Aycliffe are at home to Billingham 3rds for a friendly match, kick-off is at 2.15 pm. Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club would like to thank all their sponsors, in particular, ServiceForce. More details are available on the website at www.ayclifferugby.co.uk. Author Stuart McIvor |
|
Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club travelled up the A1 to Jarrovians for another Durham Junior League match with a squad of 19 players, including two members of the recently disbanded Shildon Town club. Jarrovians were able to field only a bare 15 players due to their first team playing a cup game on the adjacent field.
Aycliffe began the game at a gallop. After 3 minutes, an attack on the left wing was switched across the field to where Drew Gibson was able to use his speed to touch down behind the posts giving Tommy Cooper an easy conversion. From the kick-off, Deryk Cairns battered through the Jarrow pack, leaving the defence in disarray and allowing Gareth Parsonage to add to the lead, another try by Parsonage together with two more conversions from Cooper left Aycliffe 21 - 0 ahead after less than 10 minutes and a massacre seemed on the cards. Jarrovians then fought back however, and for the next 15 minutes used their forwards to attack the Aycliffe line consistently during which period they had a try disallowed. Eventually, Aycliffe re-asserted their dominance and further tries by Gibson and Parsonage gave the visitors a 33 - 0 lead at the interval. |
With a Jarrovians player having to transfer to the first team game, Derek Chapman sportingly played for the opposition. A try by Andrew Parkin began the second half scoring, but again Aycliffe slipped their foot from the gas and let Jarrovians off the hook. Gibson finally completed his hat-trick, and a well worked move, involving dummy runs from both centres, saw Cooper add another try. The scoring was completed with Parsonage adding his 4th and 5th tries of the game and with Cooper taking his tally of conversions to 8 from 10 kicks at goal. The final score was a convincing, but under the circumstances, slightly unsatisfying 66-0 victory.
On Saturday 4th November, Aycliffe visit Middlesbrough 3rds for a friendly match, kick-off is at 2.15 pm, with the clocks having gone back. Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club would like to thank all their sponsors, in particular, ServiceForce. More details are available on the website at www.ayclifferugby.co.uk. Author Stuart McIvor |
|
21st October 2006
Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club continued their Durham Junior League programme when they were at home to Winlaton Vulcans 2nd XV. The continued shortage of props meant that Peter Sheen had to fill in at tight-head. The backs, however, were close to full strength. The game began with the larger Winlaton pack dominating in the scrummages and mauls. Two penalty kicks were missed by Winlaton early on, but Aycliffe defended resolutely. The back row of David Gibson, Sean Cairns and Deryk Cairns snuffed out any runs from the half backs. Finally the pressure told when Winlaton were able to create an overlap on the left wing and just squeeze over for the try. The rest of the half followed the same pattern with Aycliffe's superb defending continuing. The half time score was 5-0 to Winlaton. The second half began with Winlaton continuing the pressure and Aycliffe still battling. With another try looming, Luke Tinkler kicked the ball away from the goal-line; the kick did not find touch, but Andrew Parkin, following up, kicked the ball on further before gathering it up and running the full length of the pitch to score a try under the posts. Tommy Cooper added the conversion. Aycliffe now began to make use of their greater fitness and speed as the Winlaton forwards began to tire. Ronnie Gilyeat made number of driving runs with good support coming from the rest of the team. |
 Aycliffe began to stretch the opposition with some excellent passing moves. The lead was further increased when Cooper added a penalty goal. A move that covered 60 metres, going across the field and then back again resulted in Tinkler adding a second try to increase Aycliffe's lead to 10 points with 5 minutes left to play. Winlaton were not beaten though and fought their way back up the field to be awarded a penalty 10 metres short of the line. Taking the kick quickly, they spread the ball wide to where the defence was outnumbered. Despite the tackle being made, Winlaton's extra man was able to pick up the ball and dive over the line to score. Aycliffe held out for the remaining moments for a famous victory by 15 points to 10.
On 28th October Aycliffe visit Jarrovians 2nds in another league game. The Rugby Club would like to thank all their sponsors and in particular major sponsors ServiceForce. More details are available on the website at www.ayclifferugby.co.uk. Author Stuart McIvor |
Excellent Defence Fails to Win Points
Newton Aycliffe 0 Durham City 3rd XV 10
|
7th October 2006
Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club hosted Durham City's 3rd team in this Durham Junior League match at Moore Lane. Durham fielded a big and very experienced team against an Aycliffe side still missing a number of key players. Stuey McLean filled in at the unfamiliar position of prop forward, whilst returning old boy Wendell Stout played in the second-row. From the outset, the Aycliffe scrummage was under pressure and was pushed back on a number of occasions, although hooker Stuart McIvor and tight-head Ryan Milford managed, between them, to take a number of strikes against the head. In the loose, however, rapid punches by the forwards, in particular Deryk Cairns were causing chaos in the Durham defence. Aycliffe came close to scoring after a period of pressure but the ball was deemed to have been held up over the line. A momentary lapse in the Aycliffe defence then saw Durham take the lead with a try in the corner that went unconverted. At half time, the score was 5 - 0. The second half continued in the way of the first, Aycliffe's defending was outstanding as any Durham player | who got the ball was immediately closed down, with Dave Gibson completing his usual impressive stint of tackling. When Aycliffe were able to get possession, both Paul Ellis and Luke Tinkler made breaks to stretch the Durham defence, but the final breakthrough didn't come. Excellent defending resulted in Durham begin held up beneath the posts. Aycliffe were just able to prevent a pushover try from the resulting 5-metre scrum and Durham were forced to spin the ball wide where they were managed to touch down in the corner. This was to prove the only score of the second half and the game finished 10 - 0.
This was one of the best performances seen by Aycliffe for a long time, against a far stronger team who have been achieving big wins this season, but the elusive first victory of the season is still to be gained. On Saturday 14th October, Aycliffe are at home to Houghton 2nds, last season's league champions, in the Durham Junior League; kick-off is at 3pm. Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club would like to thank all their sponsors, in particular, ServiceForce. More details are available on the website at www.ayclifferugby.co.uk. Author Stuart McIvor |
Narrow League Defeat
Washington 17 Newton Aycliffe 15
23/9/6|
Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club travelled up the A1 to play Washington in their first Durham Junior League fixture of the season. A continued absence of players meant a number of the backs were playing out of position, with Drew Gibson at inside centre and Joe Watson at full-back. Washington were early leaders of the league having won their first two games.
The match was very close at the start, with both teams playing it tight in the forwards. Aycliffe were dominant in the scrummages and had the advantage in the lineout. Any attacks from the Washington forwards were quickly snuffed out by the hard tackling flankers, Darryl Breeze and Dave Gibson, and neither team looked like scoring until a 35m penalty kick by Tommy Cooper gave Aycliffe an early lead. Drew Gibson made a great break from the half way line but, despite beating a number of defenders, was unable to score. The half-time score remained 3-0. Washington attacked with more purpose in the second half and were able to drive over for a try near the posts. The relatively easy conversion was missed. | Tommy Cooper had two further penalty attempts which were both narrowly wide. An unfortunate bounce from a long kick presented Washington with the opportunity to score a converted try. Aycliffe now began to press more and more, and from a quickly taken penalty, Paul Soakell had the vision to spot debutant Andy Whyte, wide on the right, Whyte was able to touch down to reduce the deficit to four points. Poor Aycliffe defence however allowed Washington to increase the gap again with a try on the wing. Aycliffe came back again and applied immense pressure before Soakell was able to drive over from yet another well won scrummage. Cooper converted but it proved to be the last play of the game and Aycliffe had lost by the narrow margin of 17 - 15.
There is no match this weekend; Aycliffe's next match will be on 6th October when Aycliffe host Durham City 3rd XV in another league game. The Rugby Club would like to thank all their sponsors and in particular major sponsors ServiceForce. More details are available on the website at www.ayclifferugby.co.uk. Author Stuart McIvor |
|
The larger BBOB side took early control of the scrummages and were soon threatening the Aycliffe line. After some stout defending, BBOB took the lead with a try but the conversion was missed. Aycliffe began to make the most of the small amount of possession they received and reduced the deficit when Tommy Cooper kicked a penalty from 30 metres. BBOB continued to press but a combination of excellent tackling from Aycliffe, especially by flanker Dave Gibson, and poor handling, denied them further scores until just before the break when a converted try left them 12 - 3 ahead. |
By now Aycliffe had been forced by injuries to use both replacements, but they continued to battle hard and the scrummaging improved. The makeshift centre pairing of Drew Gibson and Joe Watson performed admirably in defence, but good possession was hard to come by. BBOB's indiscipline saw them concede more penalties, and the gap was reduced when Cooper slotted an excellent kick from distance. A further attempt from the same position went narrowly wide, but Aycliffe were now within a converted try of the lead. An attack by Luke Tinkler briefly raised hopes, but by now the Aycliffe team were beginning to flag. Further injuries reduced the team to 14 players with a couple of 'walking wounded' and BBOB's continued pressure led to two further tries in the final 5 minutes to give them a 24 - 6 victory.
On Saturday 23rd September, Aycliffe visit Washington for their first game in the Durham Junior League; kick-off is at 3pm. Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club would like to thank all their sponsors, in particular ServiceForce. More details are available on the website at www.ayclifferugby.co.uk. Author Stuart McIvor |
Party In the Park
Tough Match for Rugby Club
Newton Aycliffe 8 Darlington MP 3rds 33
 Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club played their first home game of the season against one of their toughest opponents in Darlington Mowden Park. Despite heavy rain, the pitch was in excellent condition, although handling was to prove difficult. Prop-forward Andrew Pettler made his debut alongside those who had played in the previous week's match at Consett in a large squad of 22 players.
Aycliffe began the match well when a dropped ball from Mowden led to Paul Ellis kicking the ball into the corner but the chasing Aycliffe players were unable to make the touchdown. Mowden won the initial scrummage exchanges, and it was from a penalty at a scrum that they were able to take the lead when a tap penalty was run in from 10 metres. Aycliffe then fought back and were thwarted in their quest for an equalising try when Pettler was brought down inches short after a powerful run. A penalty kick from Tommy Cooper narrowed the gap. | The larger Mowden players made a number of thrusting runs and two more tries were added before the break. The half-time score was 19 - 3.
Aycliffe made a number of changes at half time and good tackling kept Mowden at bay whilst a number of scoring chances were crafted in the backs, only for poor handling in the soaking wet conditions to let them go to waste. Two further tries were added by Mowden to make the game safe. Aycliffe, however, had the final say when Alex Lineton broke through the defensive line into space near half-way. He was finally caught 15 metres from the line, but Luke Tinkler was in close support and was just able to score in the corner to leave the score 33 - 8. Despite the defeat, the match showed a deal of promise for the forthcoming season. The match on 9th September has still to be confirmed, kick-off will be 3pm. Also on that date, Newton Aycliffe Sports Club will be holding the 'Party in the Park' live music event. Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club would like to thank all their sponsors. More details are available on the website at www.ayclifferugby.co.uk. |
Lost Light
8th May 2006| At the beginning of March, Newton Aycliffe RUFC bought two second hand lighting towers with portable generators. These were a much needed but expensive addition to the Club's training facilities. Use of the lights proved very successful, and the high financial investment was deemed worthwhile. However, two weeks ago, secure gates to the Sports Club's grounds were forced, and one of the generators was towed away. This was a great blow to the Club that has worked very hard to survive in recent seasons. If this wasn't bad enough, an almost more despicable act of theft occurred at the end of last week. Thieves climbed into the secure equipment compound and stole a fuel filter from the second generator as well as causing some damage to the engine. Thus the second generator is disabled for the foreseeable future. This represents a major blow to the rugby club in its preparations for next season's dark nights of training. In the same period that saw the club donate £500 to SPIRE - a national charity for seriously injured rugby players - some persons unknown have chosen to selfishly acquire something for their own use regardless of the feelings of others. We are all too aware that many more vulnerable people in our community suffer personal loss and injury that puts our own loss into some perspective. |  The sad
matter of fact is that some fellow members of society have no regard for
the person or property of others to the detriment of us all. As a club we
will recover from this setback and eventually we will raise funds again to
recoup our loss. Whether our society improves is another matter. We will
continue to play our part as best we can. If anybody has any information
on the theft of the generator and the engine parts, please contact the
rugby club c/o Moore Lane Sports Club - aka 'the cricket club'. Any help
you can offer will be greatly appreciated.,
Author Peter Sheen |
Cycle Tour 2006
Aycliffe Show True Potential
Newton Aycliffe 27 Barnard Castle 2nds 5
|
22th April 2006
Newton Aycliffe returned to the Durham County Junior League for their final competitive game of the season against Barnard Castle. Aycliffe saw the return of a number of key players, Chris Brown and Warren Parsonage amongst them, to take on a particularly strong Barnard Castle second team. Aycliffe started the game well with some great support play resulting in a quick try for Richie Hackett, making only his second start on the wing for Aycliffe. The conversion was missed and Aycliffe were soon under pressure with some good work from the Barnard Castle forwards, resulting in an excellent run from their No. 8 who stormed over the line to level the scores at 5-5. Aycliffe refused to allow Barnard Castle any room to play and some excellent defensive work quickly turned to good offensive work as Paul Ellis kicked out of his own 22 to let Hackett through again to score unchallenged under the posts. With the conversion kicked successfully Aycliffe continued to apply pressure, | Ellis scoring again to finish the half 17-5.
Barnard Castle came straight out after the break with some very aggressive and physical play, leading to one or two off the ball altercations taking place. Aycliffe refused to be bullied and some quick hands through the backs allowed Luke Tinkler to score. The dominance that Aycliffe had shown was finally capped with good work from Paul Soakell allowing Hackett to cross the line for his hat-trick. This proved to be the last try of the game, 27-5 the final score. This was an outstanding performance against a strong Barnard Castle side, proving just how far the squad has come throughout this season. Pre-Season training begins on Thursday 15th June, anyone interested in coming along can get contact details from our website at www.ayclifferugby.co.uk The club would like to thank all their sponsors, including ServiceForce the main supporter for all of their help throughout the season. Author Matt Chojnacki |