Tale of two halves

Aire started well in this local derby and whilst the Mods defence held firm Nick Holsworth was able to slot over two early penalties to give a 6-0 lead. Mods, playing up the hill hit back and a penalty followed by a well taken converted try gave them a 10-6 lead after the first quarter. In the twenty fifth minute Mods attempted a kick to clear their line which was fielded by Aires full back and man of the match, Mark Druce, who ran through the Mods defence to score. The next ten minutes saw both teams kick a penalty the deadlock being broken when Aires scrum half Ollie Catherall broke down the middle, Druce coming into the line to send winger Kris Brook over, Holsworth adding the conversion. On Half time Druce came into the line again sending winger Tony Clitheroe over for Holdsworth to add another conversion. The only downside to the first half was a broken arm sustained by Aires veteran forward Richard Fall.
Half time and a 28-13 lead to Aire – would this lead be enough to contain Mods coming down the hill. Mods started the half strongly and the third quarter of the game was all theirs and and they ran strongly and moved the ball well to give themselves a well deserved 34-28 lead to take into the last twenty minutes. With all to play for both teams ramped up the pressure but defences held firm and only a further Holdsworth penalty added to the scoring. Going into the last minute either team could win but to their credit Mods settled the game with a well taken try.
Aire entertain Rotherham Phoenix at Nunroyd Park next Saturday.