Thrilling Derwent comeback rocks Halifax

February 2, 2012
Will Light

In an exciting and enthralling battle that totally consumed all spectators present, Halifax produced a performance that can be described in only the highest terms, managing to run a previously rampant Derwent side ragged for over half a match.

This was matched by Derwent’s equally astonishing second half reply, the team that has straddled the college rugby scene for a year showing a determination and grit worthy of champions.

The opening stages saw Derwent apparently showing the same destructive intent that saw them beat Vanbrugh 62-0 the previous week. Flanker Freddy Harris scored early, reacting quickly to a misplaced pass by the Halifax scrum half to dive over. Although the conversion was missed, Oliver Wessley soon earned a reprieve by slotting over a penalty.

However, this story was far from finished. Halifax were playing enterprising rugby, a tactic that was offering Derwent a very real challenge. Rishi Naidoo deservedly dashed through Derwent lines to score, his opponents unable to match his electrifying pace. This was the first time that Derwent have conceded points in college rugby since October.

Halifax smelt blood, and after the Derwent defence had pushed another try threat into touch, the next phase saw ‘Fax’s Tim Ross sliding over for his side’s second. At this stage, Derwent were in disarray, their positional discipline gone and looking stunned at the display being produced by their opponents. Halifax, on the other hand, looked a certain bet for victory after a brilliant third try, a scintillating chip finding Joe Turner ghosting behind the opponent defence.

After a fiery team-talk courtesy of Tolga Necar, Derwent certainly looked more energised after half time. However, Halifax continued to match them.

After ‘Fax again pushed their opponents to their try-line, they scored their fourth, the team grinding over the line after a line out, with Santiago claiming final responsibility.

At 24-8, Derwent had decided that enough was enough, and after a period of attacking possession they finally scored their second, Freddy Harris having grabbed the ball before rolling off a defender and ploughing over.

The Derwent threat continued, with Wessley knocking over a penalty in front of the posts. They were now within touching distance of catching Halifax, setting up a captivating finale.

The latter stages became increasingly frenetic, with both sides resorting to pressure relieving kicks from deep. Derwent looked the most likely to score, well aware that they enjoyed the momentum. They repeatedly smashed against the Halifax lines, but to no avail, until finally, a hole was ripped in their line, allowing Chris Judge to barrel over the line putting the score at 24-23.

The all-important conversion fell to Wessley, who now had to convert from wide on the right wing. His kick swung in, the ball dipping deliciously over the posts and breaking Halifax hearts.

There was time for one final chance, for Halifax, who were granted a penalty well within Derwent territory. However, rather than deciding to kick for goal from a relatively simple distance, fly-half and captain James McNeill put his faith in his pack, making the unusual choice of a tap penalty.

With minutes remaining, Derwent dealt well with the subsequent threat, retaining enough discipline to claim a 25-24 victory in an exhilarating game.

A delighted Tolga Necar was effusive in his praise for his opponents, stating: “Hats off to Halifax, they blew us off the park for 60 minutes, they were great. But the lads came back, they showed so much spirit, heart and determination. That shows what our college is about.”

Halifax’s James McNeill was also delighted with his side’s performance: “I can’t believe the first half performance, it was phenomenal. Most of the second half was as well, it was just 10 minutes where we gave away silly penalties. I can’t fault any of the lads today.”

One response below. Comments are open.

1. Freddy Harris says:

   February 6, 2012 at 12:28 am

   Second try should be awarded to Alex Littlechild, not to myself..

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