Heath RUFC Halifax

Heath u14s visited Old Crossleyans for the first time this season. In the previous three seasons Heath have been on the receiving end of heavy defeats having come up against class Old Crocs attack and defence. Could the Heathens dare to change this run of form? GAME ON!!!

Heath received the kick however Crocs were immediately on the front foot in Heath’s half. Within two minutes, Crocs entered the Heath 20 m line and with momentum barged over the Heath try line.

Crocs 5 - 0 Heath (unconverted).

With an early score, it felt likely that Crocs could build an early lead. However, the Heathens were standing strong at the breakdown with good turn over ball and solid defence.

The first half became a huge arm wrestle. Both teams were going toe to toe with Crocs having the lions share of possession. The first half score remain unchanged through to halftime. Heath needed to do something different to find territory and possession to get back in the game. Chris Seymour had his hands full with plenty to referee - it’s a tough job and he was doing well keeping a balanced game.

From the second half kick-off Heath immediately applied pressure in the bottom corner of the pitch. The Heath forwards hammered the ruck, upping the aggression from the first half. Crocs were unable to cope with the onslaught and vice-captain Logan Helliwell-McDonald showed great awareness to reach out to score from short-range.

Crocs 5 - 7 Heath (Try Logan H-M conv Cori McNamara)

Heath were building confidence and playing most of the play in Crocs half. However Crocs were doing well in the scrum and Heath were making unforced errors leading to Crocs making gains. This led to a Crocs break away score under the posts with seven minutes to play.

Crocs 12 - 7 Heath

Crocs were keen to pump the ball down into the Heath half. However a magnificent 50/20 from Ethan Murphy was a game changer. From the lineout Heath charged the Crocs line with great breaks by the likes of Charlie Anderson and Ben Austin. The ball was passed to the right and Jack Baker charged over to score, drawing level.

Crocs 12 - 12 Heath (try Jack Baker)

Cori McNamara stepped up with a cool head and let his kick fade smoothly inbetween the uprights.

Crocs 12 - 14 Heath (conv Cori McNamara)

With four minutes to play Crocs pressed hard into the Heath half. The clock was up and with screams from the sidelines to kick into touch Crocs had one last chance with a turnover. Ex- Heathen Rudi Spencer-Bennett kicked for the corner to chase down, however Alfie Cartwright booted the ball dead.

FT Crocs 12 - 14 Heath

A superb performance by both teams. There was a great combination of skill and fire making for a great derby.

Man of the match: the whole team to be honest but if there’s one lad it’s Logan Helliwell-McDonald for his graft in close quarters.