Athletics in the Ashes
Nearly 300 people laced up for the Howden Ashes 5km and 10km runs.
Sport -
August 10, 2021
Goole Vikings 4 York Acorn 10
Goole Vikings faced well-established side York Acorn in last Saturday’s YML division 2 fixture at the VPG.
The home side - cheered on by a crowd of over 140 - welcomed back 2019’s ever-present Sam Wileman for his first game of the season and came out the blocks raring to go, nearly scoring on their first two drives at the York defensive line. Strong defence was the theme of the first half as both slides threw attacking set after set at each other without either being able to break the deadlock, chances to score were available for both sides, however poor execution resulted in the chances being squandered.
Both sides walked off into the dressing rooms at half-time with the scores level at 0-0, the Goole side pleased with a much-improved defensive effort, too many times this season have the Vikings started poorly and ended up suffering as a result. The second-half started much in the same fashion, both sides smashing each other’s defences in equal fashion.
Tired legs began to show, and it was the visitors who broke through the Goole defensive line to go over and score first on 60 minutes. Instead of letting their heads drop, the home side were ignited by going behind with impressive running performances from Tom Betteridge and recently signed Sam Beardshaw. It was, however, the experienced mainstay of the side Scott Birch who found space and carried the ball over in the corner for Goole. The home side, with key players missing including captain Josh Hardy gave their all in the last ten minutes, it was sadly York who had the extra few miles left in their tank and a tired defence momentarily lapsed to allow York to go over and score the winning try. Final score Goole 4 York Acorn 10.
Goole can take massive heart from a gritty performance especially considering the number of players not included in the 17-man squad reasons. Such defensive resolve has rarely been seen throughout the 2021 season, if the Vikings can find a way to find their scoring form once more, they will give any team in this division a good game. The game was kindly sponsored by Malcolm Raywood who chose to award the man of the match to loose forward Sam Beardshaw who continues to impress for Goole.
The Vikings next week travel to Hull Wyke hoping to avenge a recent close home loss.
Scott Birch charging on his way to score the Vikings only try of the game. (05-08-200 GT)
