Aire romp to victory against plucky league newcomers.

Aireborough 97 v Richmondshire 5

The torrential rain had put this game in jeopardy; however with both teams raring to go the Nunroyd pitch was deemed playable.

New league team Richmondshire have had a tough campaign so far, but they were boosted by a squad of 18 players, which comprised of some seriously big boys who clearly loved a scrum. Aire’s cause wasn’t helped by losing front rowers Will Girt & Will Warrington in the warm up.

Aire got off to a perfect start when Richmondshire’s captain Neil Gardener (ex player Aire player) fumbled the kick off and Aire were awarded the scrum.

Despite Aire being nudged back, scrum half Bish dug the ball out and released the back line who made immediate ground. The away team scrambled, but within 3 minutes Aire scored their 1st try.

Despite several absences Aire’s recent recruitment has improved resilience and gave opportunities to Lavar Holmes, Ryan Lowe and Nathan Cawood. The new boys were keep to show what the could fo and made a huge impact from the start.

Richmondshire struggled to cope with Aire’s power, pace and tempo, which resulted in the score board ticking over with regularity.

Despite the bad conditions, Aire’s handing was as good as it’s been all season. There were some sweet passages of play with the ball being moved with precision, pace and accuracy.

Richmondshire did have some threats from their big ball carriers, but Aire’s defence was organised and committed, with chop tackles felling gigantic men. Tackles were followed by hungry jackallers, who pounced on every opportunity to turn over ball.

This was an opportunity for players to shine and although new to playing rugby , Lavar Holmes grasped the opportunity with both hands. Lavar slotted into hooker and was all over the park. He fielded several re starts and ran the ball back with purpose, tackled with venom and the highlight has to be a sublime no look pass to release the three quarters to score a belter.

Richmondshire were game and clung on, but they just didn’t have the resources to match the Wolf Pack. Unfortunately it wasn't a day for goal kicking and the mud caked ball was like trying to convert a pupmpkin.

In the 77th minute they were facing a 97 point deficit, but they found a way to get into Aire’s red zone. They utilised some meaty drives to pommel Aire’s line and with the final play they powered over for a well deserved consolation try. The game finished 97-5 to Aire l, but huge credit to Richmondshire who stuck at it and showed massive character.

Lavar Holmes received the Aire player of the match award, which due to efforts at training was richly deserved.

It was also good to see improved numbers supporting Aire, which makes a big difference to the players.

Aire’s scorers Ben Hague (3), Mikey Dolan (3) , Josh Nathaniel (3), Huw McGrath (2), Adam Bishop, Ryan Lowe, Jamie Sykes, Mickey Cameron, Harry Beckwith and Joe White.

This win propels Aire to 4th place in the league' but the Wolf Pack have a game in hand against 3rd place Knottingley.

Next week Aire are away at Otliensians 2:15 KO in a much anticipated cup game.

As ever please get all availabilities updated on Teamreach ASAP