On a day where conditions were perfect for playing rugby, Pontefract were deserved victors over a committed home side who are destined for relegation.

Ponte looked dangerous with ball in hand but struggled for possession due to a mixture of errors, good ball retention from the hosts and a high penalty count against, from an excellent referee whose very keen application of the new high tackle law hit Ponte hard.
The Ponte defence was outstanding and along with a dominant scrum, kept Goole at bay with relative ease. Ponte gave a full debut to young scrum half Tom Greensmith who acquitted himself very well giving sharp service and wholehearted defence.

Ponte broke the deadlock on the half hour mark with a well struck penalty by Liam Kay for a high tackle, after excellent progress from Steve Anderson, Tyler Smith and the ever-dangerous Lucas Ketteridge.

The opening try soon followed as a huge drive from skipper Brodie Matthews allowed several pick and drives before Kay put Ketteridge under the posts, converted by Kay. Half time ten points to nil.

Goole had a lion’s share of possession after the break but despite rarely threatening, did manage to squeeze over in the corner for a five pointer. That setback gave Ponte renewed momentum with Sean Simpson, Calum Rogers and Steve Reynolds driving the team forward whilst the line out combination of Joe Knox and Andy Lund never missed a beat.

The continuous pressure finally told, as a great break from centre Will Cooke allowed Ponte a dominant scrum from which Kay found try scoring phenomenon Josh Milthorpe coming at pace on an unstoppable angle for a converted score.

Kay converted a late penalty to end the scoring and a hard-fought victory. Best for Ponte were Ketteridge and Kay in the backs whilst up front Simpson and Matthews went well with Tad Nyanjowa making a welcome return.

Pontefract welcome league leaders Rochdale to Moor Lane next Saturday with a 3pm kick off. Please come and support the team.