Aireborough battle hard but come away empty handed

Aire travelled down the M1 to Rotherham with a depleted but optimistic squad, hoping to get their league campaign off to a solid start.

Aireborough started with the advantage of the wind at their back and in the sunshine but soon came under pressure due to some strong carries from the large, well-drilled opposition.

Strong defence from debutant Will Girt, the returning Rob Johnson and last line of defence, Jamie Sykes, kept the opposition at bay for a while until around the 10-minute mark, where they were able to power over. This was followed by another Phoenix try out wide.

Number 8, Jonny Mackey’s superb cut out pass put Aireborough winger, Kris Brook in space, proceeding to beat 2 men before being taken by the last defender. The pair repeated the trick 10 minutes later after Brook cleverly kicking inside to supporting scrum-half Olly Catherall, who was halted by a high tackle.

Aireborough debutant and hooker Harry Waugh was sin-binned for a deliberate knock-on, which actually began Aireborough’s best spell of the half.

Winger Matt Jones was narrowly wide with the penalty and was unlucky to have been adjudged to knock on in the act of scoring, a TMO May well have awarded the try but apparently Rotherham didn’t have one.

Aireborough played against the wind in the second half and defended manfully for large periods, but with little possession, it was difficult to get their young, speedy backline in any space.

Breaks from fly-half Jacob Waugh and captain Chris Chapman did give Aireborough field position but Jonny Mackey was denied a score for a double movement late on in the half.

Phoenix managed 2 more tries in the second half, as well as a penalty, which were all superbly converted by their kicker.

Aireborough came away disappointed but also proud of the rearguard effort, commitment and determination that they showed all afternoon.

Next up, Halifax Vandals at home.

Thanks to our team sponsors; The Potting Shed Guiseley, We Change it, Brands Creative Ltd, Spencer Woods Accountants and Leuly Photography and PR.

Match report written by Matthew Osborn