Ossett 24 - 12 Old Rishworthians
Young Rishworthians lose narrowly to a strong well coached Ossett side

Match Preview Friday 9th October
Rishworthians give youngsters and second team players a chance in a friendly fixture with Yorkshire Four side Ossett.

It also gives the Copley club chance to rest a number of first team players, who are carrying knocks, in preparation for the following week's fixture at joint league leaders Bramley Phoenix. Notable inclusions in the team to travel to Ossett are youngsters James Kidd and Will Brian. Despite other players being drafted in and several positional changes, it will still be a strong Rishworthians squad.

Match report Saturday 10th October Friendly
Old Rishworthians travelled to Ossett for a friendly match with a side showing 12 (including 3 positional) changes from the one which defeated Otliensians in the league. The coaches used the fixture as an opportunity to try out different combinations but were defeated by a strong and well coached Ossett side. The average age of the backs was 20 and included Will Brian at scrum half, who replaced club captain Gary Morris.

The home side soon had the visitors under pressure at the scrum and took two against the head and following a penalty for offside Ossett opened the scoring with a penalty. Good interplay between Nick Faulkner and Anthony Shoesmith almost resulted in a try for the Rishworthians, but the ball was was passed inside and an Ossett forward saved the situation. After 18 minutes Gerard Rawlings was yellow carded together with the Ossett prop and following an altercation between a home spectator and the referee, the penalty was reversed. A lovely break by Fraser Davidson supported by Shoesmith, saw Atkinson score an unconverted try.

A further penalty against Faulkner for a dangerous tackle enabled Ossett to restore the lead to 6-5. A kick and chase by Davidson almost resulted in a try and Joe Billing, playing at outside half was tripped 5 metres from the line. From a good attacking position the Rishworthians again lost the ball against the head, and Ossett cleared their lines. Just before halftime James Mcdonnell was yellow carded for tackling his opponent in the air at a lineout. Ossett forced a scrum near the visitors line and a try was scored.

Half time Ossett 11 - 5 Rishworthians

The early part of the second half was a bit scrappy, but the Rishworthian backs looked dangerous when they ran the ball. However two penalties for technical offences saw the home side increase the lead to 17-5. Rawlings was looking dangerous when he had the ball and several of his runs worried the Ossett backs.

A kick through and a chase enabled Atkinson to score his second try which was converted by Wesley Aldridge. With more ball the visitors could have won, but the Ossett forwards had other ideas and a try was scored under the posts by their No 8, which was converted. Not a bad performance and shows the current strength in depth at the club.

Full time Ossett 24 - 12 Rishworthians

Ossett website

Team
	1. Brook	2. Collins	3. W Aidridge C
6. Porritt				7. Rollings
	4. Mc Donnell		5. Fox
		8. Collinge
9. W Brian
	10. Billing
		12. Davidson
			13. Faulkner
11. Atkinson T2				14. Kidd
		15. Shoesmith
Subs
	Morris	Turner

Rishworthians 2ndXV 24 - 31 Ossett 2ndXV

With numbers thin on the ground from Ossett an agreement to play 11 aside saw a fast paced afternoon with plenty of running play around the field. Rishworthains were slow to get going as the team was nearly new. As the game progressed the team started to bond, settling down in various positions. However in that time the Ossett team had arrived in the right frame of mind and scored a quick opening try which was converted. Using this as motivation the Rishworthain side then settled down and took the attack to Ossett, some excellent running by the back line saw major gaps opening up with Tom Brian making a run to score only for it to be disallowed as the ref felt the ball hit his foot. This set the tone for the rest of the game with Jonathan Utley pushing through to create space from the central position with support by Tom Brian and Sven on the wing. Andy Sadler delivered a stunning try to put the home team back in the game.

After half time another excellent try was disallowed as the ref felt Tom Brian stepped outside the touch line, 3 minutes later Tom was back again going for the third try of the day which was successful given (3rd time lucky...). Debut winger Sven delivered a great run with Tom Brain to score his 1st senior try with the club showing the strength of the Rishworthain Colts team. Debut winger Grant showing up for the club for the 1st time also scored following some great passing play. Overall an average performance by Rishworthains and next game against Bramley Phoenix at home will see the return of regular second team members.

Team : R Ranton, A Thomas, K Mitchell, M Jones, P Savage, A Salder, J Utley, T Brian, J Hitchcliffe, Grant, Amecca, Sven, Chris

Man of the match to Sven

Bramley Phoenix 15 - 20 Old Rishworthians
Rishworthians dominate 1st half but Phoenix 2nd half fire not enough

Match Preview Friday 16th October
Rishworthians travel to Yorkshire Three joint leaders Bramley Phoenix in a confident mood. With a strong squad and knowing that they beat the Leeds outfit home and away last season, they will be looking to increase their tally to four league wins out of five so far this season.

On their last league outing, the Copley men beat promotion favourites Old Otliensians and will be hoping to maintain that form. They have already played some of their toughest games of the season and put in some excellent performances, particularly in the forwards. They will field a full strength pack and also welcome back strong scoring winger Nick Faulkner.

The game should be a good preparation for their Silver Trophy first round clash next week with Old Modernians before fixtures against Garforth and then the usual big game clash with local rivals Vandals.

Match report Saturday 17th October Yorkshire 3
It looked like being a stroll in the park for Rishworthians after totally dominating the first half and taking a 14-point lead into the break. But a second half comeback coupled with a slump by the visitors caused a nail-biting last 10 minutes. But in the end the Copley men were delighted once again to have taken the points from one of Yorkshire Three's top teams.

It all seemed so easy in the first half, with the pack totally in control and the home side struggling to get out of their own half. The Rishworthian tackling was supreme, particularly in the centre, where Chris Flanagan was outstanding throughout the game. The visitors almost got over from a strong rolling maul in the opening minutes. Then as Bramley tried to get the ball away Aaron Canning charged down an attempted clearance kick. The ball skewed to the side, but the stand-off kicked on and gathered it well wide out to score the opening points. Jamie Bloem converted.

Canning almost scored a second minutes later with a quick break, but was just stopped short. The Rishworthian pack were totally dominant and the backs were keeping the talented Bramley backs in check. The visitors scored again late in the half with a well-worked move. It started with young prop Wes Aldridge, who had another fine game, stealing the ball in the lineout. He got it out and Bloem put in a delicate kick to the corner. Right wing Anthony Shoesmith, who also gave another outstanding performance, launched into the air to gather it and run inside to touch down. Bloem added the conversion.

Half time Bramley Phoenix 0 - 14 Rishworthians

At the start of the second half Shoesmith almost got in again after intercepting in his own 22, but was hauled down just short of the line. It was the cue for the home side to begin to take charge and only fine tackling especially from Flanagan and No 8 James Clarke kept them out.

A score became inevitable, but Rishworthians managed to push them wide for an unconverted try in the corner. Almost straight from the restart the visitors got a penalty and Bloem stretched the lead. But the home side would not give in and came back strongly to score in the same corner. Flanagan then put in a try-saving tackle before just being thwarted in a kick through and chase for the line.

It all seemed over when Canning stretched the lead with a well struck penalty, but there was still time for Bramley to hit back with a third try in the corner, although it was only a consolation.

Full time Bramley Phoenix 15 - 20 Rishworthians

Bramley Phoenix website

Team
	1. Turner	2. Edmundson	3. W Aidridge
6. Bakoso				7. Prashad
	4. Mc Donnell		5. Fox
		8. Clarke
9. Morris
	10. Canning T,P
		12. Bloem C2, P
			13. C Flanagan
11. ShoesmithT				14. Faulkner
		15. Billing
Subs
	Brook	Davidson	Rollings

Old Rishworthians 42 - 3 Modernians
Rishworthians cruise into 2nd round of Silver Trophy

Match Preview Friday Friday 23rd October
Rishworthians switch to cup action when they entertain fellow Yorkshire Three opponents Old Modernians at Copley in the first round of the Yorkshire Silver Trophy. Buoyed by league success against some of the division's strongest teams, the Copley men will be feeling confident against the Leeds side which has struggled so far this season. They played the same opponents at home last year in the now defunct EDF Vase and won convincingly. They also won the home league fixture, but were beaten by Mods at their Leeds ground.

Centre Chris Flanagan, who was outstanding in defence in last week's victory at Bramley Phoenix is not available and lock James McDonnell is missing with a leg injury. Fraser Davidson comes in to start at centre and Jioti Bakoso moves from the back row to the second row, with Gerard Rollings starting at flanker.

Match report Saturday 24th October 1st round Silver Trophy
Rishworthians cruised into the second round of the Yorkshire Silver Trophy with a convincing win over their fellow Yorkshire Three opponents. While they were not always at their best throughout the game and were particularly sloppy in the first half, they produced flashes of excellent rugby with some sparkling tries. Their second half performance completely overwhelmed the visitors, although their two first half tries were among the best this season.

It all started once Mods had got their score. Although Rishworthians opened up well, the Leeds side fought back and while playing advantage for a high tackle, took the lead with a drop goal. It was the only time the visitors threatened in the game and the home side were quickly level with a Jamie Bloem penalty. Good work by No 8 James Clarke and hooker Simon Edmundson took play close to the Mods line. From a lineout, the home pack started a forward drive, before the ball came out. Bloem, who had come into the line from fullback, put in a long pass to right wing Anthony Shoesmith, who had looped round to the other side, to score in the corner.

More Rishworthian pressure led to a second Bloem penalty and then on the stroke of half-time the Copley men completed a dazzling team try. There was slick interpassing between Bloem, stand-off Aaron Canning, left wing Nick Faulkner, flanker Gerard Rollings and scrum half Gary Morris, before prop Richard Turner took the final pass to burst through and touch down.

Half time Rishworthians 16 - 3 Modernians

The prop Turner was almost in again in the opening minutes of the second half and Rishworthians almost got a pushover before Shoesmith claimed his second try. It came from deep as Canning ran through and linked with Bloem before Shoesmith took the final pass to score in the corner.

Rollings almost got over in a searing run but the ball went out to backs and neat interplay was finished off by Bloem, who converted his own try. Bloem was on hand again to convert two tries near the end by Clarke. The No 8 Clarke was unstoppable from a quickly taken tap penalty and then Clarke scored another touch down with a pushover try, which was a fitting conclusion for the hard working Rishworthian front five, who had another excellent game.

Full time Rishworthians 42 - 3 Modernians

Modernians website

Rishworthians v Modernians Slideshow.
Click on arrows to view more photos, click on photo to enlarge.
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Team
	1. Turner T	2. Edmundson	3. W Aldridge
6. Rollings				7. Prashad
	4. Bakoso		5. Fox
		8. Clarke T2
9. Morris
	10. Canning
		12. Billing
			13. Davidson
11. Shoesmith T2				14. Faulkner
		15. Bloem T,C3,P2
Subs
	Brook	Teasdale	Renard-Smith	Collins

Old Rishworthians 43 -10 Garforth
Rishworthians turn the screw in the second half

Match Preview Friday 30th October
Rishworthians return to league action against Yorkshire Three strugglers Garforth. They beat the Leeds side home and away last season and will be aiming to repeat the performance this season. The Copley men are full of confidence after convincingly beating another Yorkshire Three side Old Modernians last week in the Yorkshire Silver Trophy.

They are boosted by the return of centre Chris Flanagan, who missed the cup tie and lock James McDonnell, who has recovered from injury. Martin Brook comes in to start at prop for Richard Turner, who suffered a knee injury in training. Turner was a try-scorer in the Silver Trophy game and has had an outstanding opening to the season.

While Rishworthians will be favourites for the points, Garforth have proved dangerous opponents in the past. But the Copley men will be hoping home advantage will play a big part and that their front five can continue their excellent form so far this season.

Match report Saturday 31st October Yorkshire 3
Rishworthians made heavy weather of proving they were the superior side in this Yorkshire Three game. While they were clearly the better side they struggled to look convincing and too often made errors at crucial moments. Despite that they scored six tries and might have scored several more.

They started strongly with good breaks from right wing Anthony Shoesmith, No 8 James Clarke and flanker Jioti Bakoso before stand-off Aaron Canning put them ahead with a penalty. Lock Chris Fox popped up for a great run in the centre before the ball went wide and Jamie Bloem burst through to force his way over.

Clarke almost got over, but then a strong rolling maul took play close to the visitors' line. From the ensuing scrum, Rishworthians pushed their opponents back a full 15 metres for Clarke to touch down. Canning added the conversion.

From there the home side seemed to slow up and allowed Garforth back into the game. They defended resolutely, however, and all the visitors had to show was a penalty. Rishworthians might have scored on the stroke of half-time, but were denied by a crossing decision.

Half time Rishworthians 15 - 3 Garforth

Rishworthians opened the second period by putting pressure on the visitors' line. Wave after wave of forward drives went in before lock Chris Fox finally got the touchdown. Canning added the conversion.

The home pressure continued, but a loose pass was intercepted for a converted try for the visitors. This seemed to spur Rishworthians on and they pinned Garforth back in their own 22 before the ball went wide. Centre Joe Billing put in the incisive break and fed Shoesmith, for the wing to run in. Canning converted.

Billing then combined well with left wing Nick Faulkner to take play close to the Garforth line. A scrum ensued and when Clarke's attempts to get a second pushover try were thwarted, the referee awarded a penalty try. Canning added the conversion. Just before the end, Canning took a pass from a tap penalty to dart through and score, Canning converting his own try.

Full time Rishworthians 43 - 10 Garforth

Garforth website

Team
	1. Brook	2. Edmundson	3. W Aldridge
6. Bakoso				7. Rollings
	4. Mc Donnell		5. Fox T
		8. Clarke T,Pen Try
9. Morris
	10. Canning T,C5,P
		12. Bloem T
			13. Davidson
11. ShoesmithT				14. Faulkner
		15. Billing
Subs
	Collins	Robinson	Prashad

Halifax Vandals 16 - 26 Old Rishworthians
Rishworthians have the edge to secure a win at Warley

Match Preview Friday 6th November
Current form makes little difference in the derby matches between Yorkshire Three sides Old Rishworthians and Vandals and the latest clash should be no different. The two meet at Warley after differing starts to the season. Rishworthians have fared best and lie in third place in the division, while Vandals lie several places below them. Games between the two sides are traditionally close, with home advantage playing a major role. Last season Vandals were 13 - 10 winners at Warley, while Rishworthians won 12 - 9 when the teams met at Copley. But both sides will be in confident mood after league victories last Saturday.

Rishworthians keep virtually the same squad as in previous weeks, with a slight reshuffling, but welcome back centre Chris Flanagan, who missed last week's win over Garforth. They also add teenage lock Anthony Oxley to the squad to strengthen a pack which has already been performing well so far this season.

Match report Saturday 7th November Yorkshire 3
Rishworthians always had the edge throughout this derby game even after twice going behind. They had the upper hand as far as possession and territory went, but Vandals' Paul Knapping kept his side in the hunt with some excellent long distance kicking. Vandals defence was strong throughout and had to be especially so in the second half when Rishworthians dominated play and it was no surprise when a James Clarke try at the end gave the visitors what appeared to be a comfortable winning scoreline.

The Copley men got off to a good start and within five minutes were ahead thanks to an Aaron Canning penalty. Then with their only real threatening move of the match, Vandals sent the ball out wide, Knapping made the break to put the home threequarters in with a try, which he converted. Rishworthians fought back well and might have scored but for a number of mistakes when they got near the home line. A great kick from fullback Joe Billing, who had an excellent game, gave Rishworthians territorial advantage and Canning added a penalty. Further good work by the pack led to another Canning penalty to give the visitors a 9 - 7 half-time lead.

Half time Halifax Vandals 9 - 7 Rishworthians

While they dominated most of the second half, Rishworthians had a few worrying moments when Knapping converted two more long distance penalties to give the home side a four-point lead. But the visitors were not to be denied and came back even stronger. They put pressure on the home line and might have been awarded a penalty try when Gerard Rollings was tackled high as he went for the line. The referee allowed advantage and the Rishworthian pack drove the ball over the line with Jioti Bakoso getting the touchdown. Canning converted and then Canning added a penalty to give Rishworthians a six-point lead.

Although Knapping landed another long distance penalty, the visitors were not to be denied and pressure on the Vandals line led to a scrum. The Rishworthians pack drove the home forwards back as they had done throughout the game. While 10 metres might have been too much for a pushover, No 8 Clarke was able to pick and drive over for a try, which Canning converted. It capped an excellent performance by the Rishworthian forwards and meant a first victory for several years at Warley.

Full time Halifax Vandals 16 - 26 Rishworthians

Evening Courier Report
Vandals coach Chris Davis reckons Rishworthians can gain a second successive promotion this season while his side will have all on to stay in Yorkshire Three. "The old enemy from the bottom of the valley" - as Vandals president Bob Walker described the visitors in his programme notes - certainly looked the more accomplished side in Saturday's first derby meeting of the season but it wasn't until the final quarter that it showed on the scoresheet.

Two long-range penalties from skipper Paul Knapping and a converted try from winger Tom Crowther after the best backs move of the match helped Vandals into a 13-9 lead after 52 minutes. However, Rishworthians eventually made their territorial and set piece domination pay with tries from back rowers Jioti Bakoso and James Clarke plus another seven points from the boot of Aaron Canning. Last season's two league clashes between the sides in Yorkshire Four had been low-scoring, tight affairs won by the side with home advantage. Rishworthians went into Saturday's Warley rematch having shown the better form this season and with sidelined player-coach Jamie Bloem urging his men to "concentrate on their game and not the occasion".

The Copley side were quick to establish superiority up front and, helped by probing kicks from stand off Canning and some indecisive play from home fullback Matt Farrar, were quickly on the offensive. Canning gave them a 3-0 lead with a penalty following a Vandals scrum offence on five minutes but the home side swept in front with what was to prove a rare attack soon after. Stand off Knapping, who is a strong kicker and runner, is clearly Vandals' main man and it was his break following a scrum which paved the way for centre Shane Lewis and Farrar to send in right winger Crowther. The scorer cut inside to touch down near the posts, enabling Knapping to make it 7-3. Rishworthians frustrated their supporters for the remainder of the half. On three occasions their forwards looked set to make their strength tell with possession close to the home line and each time they committed a basic error. They did, however, turn round with a 9-7 advantage courtesy of two penalties from Canning, who made amends for a 25th minute miss. Knapping raised hopes of a home success, and possession of the Trevor Whitworth Trophy, with two long-range shots of his own to make it 13-9 after 52 minutes.

However, Rishworthians mounted sustained pressure and eventually a defence in which Andrew White and Frazer Carrington shone for the home side eventually cracked. The visitors' forwards were held up over the line following a lineout catch and drive but renewed the assault and as the referee played an advantage for a high tackle on centre Gerrard Rollings, Fijian Bakoso was driven over for a try. Canning converted and the ex-Halifax man made it 19-13 to the visitors with a 66th minute penalty. Knapping's flawless goal kicking continued with an excellent angled 35 metre effort to narrow the gap to three points with eight minutes left.

It was Rishworthians' day, though, and after Canning had sliced a drop goal attempt the decisive score came from Clarke entering added time. The useful No 8 left home scrum half Andy Fox and Farrar prone on the turf as he powered in from the base of a scrum. Canning converting.

Ex-Saracens back Davis praised the efforts of his players but said: "We were mauled off the park and our lineout faltered big time. "We are a progressive young side but Rishworthians have the better set piece and it told." When asked if he thought Rishworthians, beaten only once this season, would go up again he said: "I think they will. They are playing with confidence and their club now has a great youth policy. "For us the aim is to stay in Yorkshire Three. As long as we continue to get better we should survive."

Bloem was particularly pleased with the efforts of Gerrard Rollings, who had spells at centre and in the pack, and the solid performance of fullback Joe Billing. Relief was his overwhelming emotion. "We always knew it was going to be tough. Vandals have a lot of spirit in their side."

Halifax Vandals website

Team
	1. Brook	2. Edmundson	3. W Aldridge
6. Bakoso T				7. Prashad
	4. Mc Donnell		5. Fox
		8. Clarke T
9. Morris
	10. Canning C2,P4
		12. C Flanagan
			13. Rollings
11. Shoesmith				14. Faulkner
		15. Billing
Subs
	Collins	Robinson	Oxley

Rishworthians 2ndXV 7 - 18 Halifax Vandals 2ndXV

Both teams in the local derby were looking for the win. With both sides fielding strong teams the spirit to win would prove the deciding factor. Both teams tackled hard and delivered some excellent rugby. Vandals scored 1st with some excellent support play. Following more play up and down the pitch with both sides trading attacking moves and both defences were tested on several occasions. The pressure was to much to bear as Vandals again scored and at half time Rishworthains were struggling. However the excellent team spirit that the 2nds are know for came during the half time team talk and Rishworth 2nds came out on the attack. Several players made excellent contributions in the 1st half including Will Brian and Lee Atkinson. During the 2nd half Rishworthains hungered for the try and with steady pressure Dominic Watkins picked up from the back of the scrum in Vandals 22 to push over the line for a try. Lee Atkinson added the conversion. However this was not enough to turn the tide of the game and Vandals came away with the win. All players deserve credit for the performance but notable Andrew Brian, Daz Dawson, Michael Oswin and Emeka Erokwu.

Man of match was Dominic Watkins

Old Rishworthians 29 - 3 Northallerton
Reshuffled Rishworthians revenge for last seasons defeat

Match Preview Friday 14th November
Rishworthians have to reshuffle their pack due injury and unavailability for the Yorkshire Three home game against Northallerton. While the visitors are languishing towards the foot of the table, they have a strong heavy pack who can always cause problems.

Rishworthians' pack has been performing excellently so far this season and despite the reshuffling due to the absence of outstanding prop Wes Aldridge and lock James McDonnell, the Copley men will still compete strongly up front. Chris Fox and Jioti Bakoso move to fill up the spaces and Ben Robinson comes in to start in the back row. The team will be hoping to continue the good form shown in recent weeks and keep up their challenge at the top of the division before next week's long trip to Hornsea in the Yorkshire Silver Trophy.

Match report Saturday 15th November Yorkshire 3
Old Rishworthians defeated Northallerton 29-3 and moved up to second in Yorkshire 3, with Aaron Canning scoring 24 points.

Last season the visitors defeated the Copley men at home in a tight match and the Old Rishworthians made sure that they would not suffer the same fate. Northallerton are the only club in 52 league games to have defeated the Copley men at home and in spite of missing Wesley Aldridge, James Mcdonnell there was an air of confidence running through the squad.

The visitors tried running the ball early in the game but after 5 minutes Aaron Canning intercepted a pass on the half way line and ran 50 meters for a try which Canning himself converted. After nine minutes Northallerton infringed at a ruck and Canning kicked a penalty. The home side dominated possession and good work by Simon Edmundson and Martin Brook pressurized the visitors into conceding a line out on their 22 meter line. A good take by Max Prashad ended in a scrum near the Northallerton line and Gary Morris passed the ball to James Clarke for a try which Canning converted .A further penalty for off side was kicked by Canning and at half time the score was 20-0.

Half time Rishworthians 20 - 0 Northallerton

In the second half Northallerton changed their tactics and tried to keep the ball in the forwards, but good defending by Chris Fox and Jioti Bakoso, playing out of position in the second row, ensured that any rolling mauls were stopped. The lineout was working well with Ben Robinson, Prashad and Gerard Rawlings sharing the duties as receiver.

However the Copley men conceded a penalty for off side and Northallerton kicked the goal. Canning kicked two further penalties and whilst the visitors tried to attack, the centre partnership of Fraser Davidson and Chris Flanagan, prevented any scores. The back three of Jo Billing and wingers Anthony Shoesmith and Nick Faulkner did not have many attacking opportunities, but Faulkner was able to place pressure on his opposite number and force a scrum 15 meters from the visitors line. The resulting scrum was wheeled and the put in given to the home side. From the scrum the forwards drove towards the Northallerton line, with Clarke in control at No.8. The scrum collapsed and the Old Rishworthians should have been awarded a penalty try but the referee thought otherwise and awarded a penalty, which Canning kicked. The remainder of the half was disappointing, but the Old Rishworthians will be happy with the result.

Full time Rishworthians 29 - 3 Northallerton

The man of the match was awarded to Aaron Canning.

Northallerton website

Team
	1. Brook	2. Edmundson	3. Fox
6. Prashad				7. Rollings
	4. Bakoso		5. Robinson
		8. Clarke T
9. Morris
	10. CanningT,C2,P5
		12. C Flanagan
			13. Davidson
11. Shoesmith				14. Faulkner
		15. Billing
Subs
	L Flanagan	Savage	W Brian

Old Modernians 17 - 36 Old Rishworthians
Rishworthians go joint top of table

Match Preview Friday 27th November
Rishworthians must guard against complacency when they return to league action with a trip to bottom club Old Modernians in Yorkshire Three. While they easily beat the Leeds outfit at Copley in the Yorkshire Silver Trophy in October, Mods are a different proposition on their own ground as they found out in defeat there last season. But Rishworthians will be firing on all cylinders, knowing that a win could leave them top if leaders Roundhegians slip up at challengers Bramley Phoenix.

Injuries have made an impact, but the Copley club still names a strong squad. They will still be without player-coach Jamie Bloem and centre Chris Flanagan is unavailable. Max Prashad moves to fill the centre berth as he has many times previously and Lee Atkinson comes in on the wing. The first choice pack will hope to continue its excellent start to the season.

After a walk over last week Rishworthians will play fellow Yorkshire Three side Aireborough or Guisborough from the North East leagues in the quarter final of the Yorkshire Silver Trophy.

Match report Saturday 28th November Yorkshire 3
Below par Rishworthians still had too much firepower for Yorkshire Three's bottom club. But their win and Roundhegians' draw at Bramley Phoenix put them joint top of the division. Two tries in two minutes at the end of the first half finished off the game and a 16-point lead at half-time led to a lacklustre second period. Rishworthians scored five tries, three of them coming from in-form right wing Anthony Shoesmith.

It was a much-changed look for the visitors due to injuries and late unavailability and it took them a while to get into the game properly, although they scored first. In the opening minutes a forward drive with lock Chris Fox and flanker Ben Robinson prominent took play near the home line. Skipper Gary Morris put in a delicate kick for Shoesmith, who gathered the ball to cross the line only to be brought back for an offside decision. But a minute later the move was repeated, and although Shoesmith did not gather the ball he was able to take it off the defender and touch down.

The home side rallied strongly and Rishworthians found themselves under pressure. Missed tackles in the centre led to a Mods try on the left wing. The conversion gave the home side the lead and they capitalised on it a few minutes later with a penalty. Rishworthians struggled to get out of their half but were inspired by a darting 50-yard run from skipper Morris from a quickly taken penalty. It led to a lineout near the home line and from it flanker Jioti Bakoso and No8 James Clarke were quick to pounce on a loose ball and force their way over the line with Clarke getting the touchdown. Canning added the conversion.

A rejuvenated Rishworthians created some excellent rugby to give Shoesmith his hat trick. The two tries in two minutes came from swift movements in the Rishworthian backs, with fullback Joe Billing bursting into the line at pace. First he made a half-break in a short space and deftly offloaded to Shoesmith for the winger's second try, converted by Canning. Then his pace allowed him to put Shoesmith away again. The winger still had plenty to do but finished in style and Canning converted with the last act of the half.

Half time Modernians 10 - 26 Rishworthians

Rishworthians had all the possession early in the second half, but only had a Canning penalty to show for their efforts. But centre Fraser Davidson picked up a loose ball and put left wing Lee Atkinson away on a 50-yard dash to the corner. Canning converted with a fine kick. The game won, Rishworthians eased off and allowed the home side to hit back with a converted try near the end.

Full time Modernians 17 - 36 Rishworthians

Modernians website

Team
	1. W Aldridge	2. Collins	3. Edmundson
6. Bakoso				7. Robinson
	4. Fox		5. Mc Donnell
		8. Clarke T
9. Morris
	10. Canning C4,P
		12. Prashad
			13. Davidson
11. ShoesmithT3				14. Atkinson T
		15. Billing
Subs
	M Illingworth	T Brian

Old Rishworthians 61 - 0 Colne and Nelson
Rishworthians enjoy a break from league rugby

Match Preview Friday 4th December
Rishworthians take a rest from league and cup action, but field a strong team for a friendly fixture against Colne and Nelson. The two sides used to play each other on a regular basis before the start of the league system, but have only met occasionally since. For Rishworthians it will be a useful fixture as they prepare for the last two league games before Christmas - away to Thornensians next week and home to Aireborough the week after, both of which will be tough propositions.

For the Copley men, three-try hero of last week's win, winger Anthony Shoesmith, drops back to fullback allowing Nick Faulkner to return, with Joe Billing moving to the centre. Max Prashad returns to the back row, while Chris Fox fills in at No 8 for the unavailable James Clarke, with Martin Brook slotting in at lock.

Match report Saturday 5th December Friendly
Even with six first team regulars missing, Rishworthians thrashed their Lancastrian opponents. They scored nine tries with left wing Nick Faulkner returning to form and bagging four of them. Stand-off Aaron Canning added eight conversions passing the 100 points mark for the season. Thee was also a debut from the bench for teenager Michael "Ossie" Oswin.

It did not take long for the home side to get on the scoresheet. Canning's break was taken on by centre Joe Billing and fullback Anthony Shoesmith, who had scored three tries the previous week, took the final pass on the burst to touch down taking his points tally to 50 for the season to date. Then Faulkner scored the first of his four tries with a 40-yard run, breaking through several tackles to touch down in the corner, for the only unconverted try. Faulkner was on hand soon after to score wide out after play had been switched across the field.

Flanker Lee Atkinson then completed a good move, with some quick offloads by both forwards and backs to snap up Rishworthians' fourth try. To complete the scoring on the stroke of half-time, Billing burst through from a quickly taken penalty. He found Canning in support and the stand-off touched down under the posts.

Half time Rishworthians 33 - 0 Colne and Nelson

It took Rishworthians almost 15 minutes to register the first score of the second half, with No 8 Chris Fox spinning out of several tackles to touch down. Shoesmith then burst through again at pace and put Faulkner in for his third try.

Youngster Will Brian, who had taken over at scrum half was quick to pounce on a mistake at the rear of the visitors' scrum and claim Rishworthians' eighth try. With the last act of the game, Rishworthians broke away from deep, with Faulkner finishing off the move under the posts for his fourth try.

Full time Rishworthians 61 - 0 Colne and Nelson

A weakened Rishworthians second team put up a good display against a mixture of Halifax first and second team, and, although leading 14 - 10 at half-time went down 47 - 14. Fullback Josh Tyson scored all the Rishworthian points with two tries and two conversions.

Colne and Nelson website

Team
	1. W Aldridge	2. Collins	3. Edmundson
6. Atkinson T				7. Robinson
	4. Brook		5. Teasdale
		8. Fox T
9. Morris
	10. Canning C8,T
		12. J Billing
			13. Davidson
11. Faulkner T4				14. W Brian T
		15. Shoesmith T
Subs
	Oswin

Thornensians 12 - 20 Old Rishworthians
Rishworthians go top of table

Match Preview Friday 11th December
Rishworthians face one of their toughest away challenges when they travel to Thornensians in Yorkshire Three. Last season they ground out a 3 - 0 victory at Thorne with a Jamie Bloem penalty being their only points. But player-coach Bloem returns at fullback for this fixture after an injury absence of several weeks. His inclusion helps to further strengthen a back line-up already boosted by the return of centre Chris Flanagan.

If Rishworthians can get the ball wide they have strong finishers on both wings in Anthony Shoesmith and Nick Faulkner, who can boast four tries each out of a total of 14 scored in the last two Rishworthian games. In the forwards, the Copley men will be without unavailable No 8 James Clarke, so Chris Fox drops back to fill the role with Jioti Bakoso moving into the second row. Additionally, teenage lock Anthony Oxley returns from college for a place on the bench.

But Rishworthians, currently lying joint top of Yorkshire Three, will have to be at their best against a strong Thorne side who beat the division's early pacesetters Old Otliensians at Otley in their last league outing.

Match report Saturday 12th December Yorkshire 3
Rishworthians played their "get out of jail" card in dramatic fashion to grab a victory which had seemed more and more unlikely. Then the fact that leaders Roundhegians' game was postponed added to their delight and saw them move to the top of Yorkshire Three. The whole thing seemed totally unlikely with less than 10 minutes to go. Although they were the best team throughout and dominated possession, they seemed unable to score. The pack was in almost complete control and camped on the home line for long periods. But nothing they could do seemed to please the referee and penalty after penalty followed almost every time they looked near to scoring. Thorne only had two attacks in the game and scored from both.

After 15 minutes and an already soaring penalty count, Rishworthians were caught dozing by a clever cross kick and the Thorne wing gathered the ball and crossed in the corner. The visitors were straight back on the attack, but their frustration grew at the same rate as the penalty count. To match it, the backs developed a tendency to drop the ball whenever they got a movement going. A number of players almost got over the line, notably No 8 Chris Fox and left wing Nick Faulkner. But the break came with no further score.

Half time Thornensians 5 - 0 Rishworthians

The second half opened the same way, only Rishworthians were able to reduce the arrears, when Aaron Canning kicked a penalty awarded after he had suffered a high tackle. With their second attack of the game the home side scored with a player coming through on the burst and leaving the visitors flat-footed expecting what appeared a blatant forward pass. The conversion made it 12 -3.

Rishworthians' heads, however, did not go down. The team of a few seasons ago might have capitulated, but the current crop of players are made of stern stuff. Despite the penalties against them and their own mistakes they kept plugging away. With 10 minutes to go skipper Gary Morris, who had previously spurned a rare penalty opportunity, called for the kick and Canning made no mistake.

It proved the turning point and soon after the restart they got a penalty in their own half. A long kick put them within 10 yards of the Thorne line. Ben Robinson was hauled into the air to take an excellent catch as he and fellow flanker Max Prashad had been doing throughout the game. He was then driven over the line by the pack in textbook fashion with lock James McDonnell getting the touchdown. The conversion was a difficult one, but Canning made no mistake to give the visitors a single point lead, stun the home side and silence the large crowd.

From the restart, Rishworthians had to be careful - and they were. The pack worked the ball into the home half and won a penalty on the touchline. A goal attempt to wind down the clock was the best option. Canning's kick looked like being successful, but dipped, hit the crossbar and bounced out. Thorne were stationary, but Jamie Bloem was quick to gather the ball and feed right wing Anthony Shoesmith for a second try. Canning added the conversion and there was still time from the restart for replacement lock Anthony Oxley to put in a storming run which nearly led to a third try.

Full time Thornensians 12 - 20 Rishworthians

The second team put in a good performance at Copley, going down 17 - 7 to a strong Old Crossleyans vets team. Gerard Rolling scored their try and kicked the goal.

Thornensians website

Team
	1. W Aldridge	2. Edmundson	3. Brook
6. Prashad				7. Robinson
	4. Bakoso		5. Mc Donnell T
		8. Fox
9. Morris
	10. Canning C2,P2
		12. C Flanagan
			13. Billing
11. Shoesmith T				14. Faulkner
		15. Bloem
Subs
	Collins	Atkinson	Oxley

Old Rishworthians 35 - 5 Aireborough
Early Christmas present as Rishworthians go 4 points clear at top of table

Match Preview Friday 18th December
Rishworthians make one change to the squad which snatched a dramatic victory at Thorne last week. Back into the side come No 8 James Clarke for the Yorkshire Three clash at home to Aireborough. It means Chris Fox reverts to lock and Jioti Bakoso drops back to flanker, with Max Prashad moving to the bench in an otherwise unchanged team. The Copley men know they will need to be at their best as the visitors have steadily moved up the table after a shaky start and now lie in third place.

League leaders Rishworthians have plenty of scoring potential in the backs, particularly on the wings and have been delighted with the goal-kicking form of stand-off Aaron Canning. But the inclusion of Clarke allows other pack members to play in their more ususal positions, something which should prove essential to hold Aireborough's strong pack.

Match report Saturday 19th December Yorkshire 3
It was probably the only game played in Yorkshire, and it was another massive Christmas present for Rishworthians. It left them four points clear at the top of Yorkshire Three after an excellent pre-Christmas performance. Rishworthians have now sat on top of their respective leagues for the last 3 festive seasons. The only time the visitors got into the game was due to Rishworthian mistakes, otherwise it was total dominance from the Copley men, particularly in the pack. The front row of Wes Aldridge, Simon Edmundson and Martin Brook were outstanding throughout and hooker Edmundson rounded off a great day for the forwards with two tries. Coupled with the outstanding pack performance was one by the backs, who ran the ball at every opportunity, even in the conditions.

The snow-covered pitch proved no problem to them and volunteers from the club did a great job in clearing snow from the lines to allow the game to take place. Under the snow the ground was soft enough to play. The only problem being caused when player-coach Jamie Bloem was looking for the white ball when about to take a kick at goal, only to discover it was sitting in the snow about 10 yards in front of him. Both teams gave a spirited performance in the difficult condition, but the visitors could not live with the Rishworthian pack.

The game started off with a fine 40-yard driving maul from the home side, but Bloem's delicate chip forward to follow it was just too long for right wing Anthony Shoesmith. Rishworthians were without in-form stand-off Aaron Canning, who had not recovered from a dead-leg from last week's victory at Thornensians. Bloem filled the gap splendidly and with centre Fraser Davidson having his best game of the season and linking well with fellow centre Chris Flangan, Rishworthians always looked dangerous when they sent the ball wide. The home men opened the scoring after scrum half Gary Morris drove the forwards before they got round and drove him over with Edmundson getting the touchdown. Bloem added the conversion.

Rishworthians began to dominate play and Bloem stretched the lead with a penalty. Lee Atkinson, coming on as a blood replacement for Gary Morris almost got in at the corner, but soon after Bloem increased the lead with a second penalty.

Aireborough then got an interception and only a superb try-saving tackle from fullback Joe Billing kept them out. Camped on their own line, the home men defended excellently and broke out from their own line. They worked the ball upfield and then Bloem's strength took them near to line and the pack again drove over with flanker Ben Robinson touching down. Bloem added the conversion with the last act of the first half.

Half time Rishworthians 20 - 0 Aireborough

Twenty points ahead, Rishworthians had their worst period of the game at the start of the second half. A couple of sloppy plays left the visitors with a lineout near to the home line and a catch and drive helped them to power over for a try.

Undeterred the home side bounced back stongly. They went close with a pushover attempt, Edmundson and left wing Nick Falukner almost got over and flanker Jioti Bakoso was held up over the line. The pressure brought a penalty allowing Bloem to increase the lead.

Strong runs by Davidson and Faulkner almost put Edmundson in at the corner, but Edmundson was on hand to take a pass from Billing to touch down wide out. Bloem added the conversion. Locks James McDonnell and Chris Fox were prominent in a move before a burst by No 8 James Clarke, who had been a strong presence throughout, set up another good position. From it the ball was moved wide and although Billing had to juggle with the ball he was able to get Faulkner in, the left wing's strength seeing him able to drive over for the last try.

In the end it was a fine performance from everyone at Rishworthians, allowing them to open up a gap at the top of the division and preventing a fixtures backlog.

Full time Rishworthians 35 - 5 Aireborough

Aireborough website

Team
	1. W Aldridge	2. Edmundson T2	3. Brook
6. Bakoso				7. Robinson T
	4. Fox		5. Mc Donnell
		8. Clarke
9. Morris
	10. Bloem C3,P3
		12. C Flanagan
			13. Davidson
11. Shoesmith				14. Faulkner T
		15. Billing
Subs
	Rollings	Atkinson	Oxley

Old Otliensians 22 - 20 Old Rishworthians
Rishworthians struggle to find their pre Christmas form

Match Preview Friday 22nd January
Rishworthians resume action with a tough fixture at Yorkshire Three's early high flyers Old Otliensians. The Otley side had been tipped as promotion favourites till they came up against Rishworthians early in October. The Copley men's 20 - 19 home scoreline does not sound that convincing, but their performance that day makes them confident they can do the double. Since that clash, the previously undefeated Otley side have had a change in fortunes and currently lie mid table in the division topped by Rishworthians.

With only injured winger Nick Faulkner missing, the Copley men can put out a strong back line-up with Chris Flanagan returning to take his place. They retain the same pack that was so dominant over Aireborough in their last outing shortly before Christmas. That victory allowed them to open a four-point gap at the top of the table. Another win would cement their position, especially with main rivals Roundhegians having a difficult game at home to Aireborough.

Match report Saturday 23rd January Yorkshire 3
The enforced lay-off told on Rishworthians as they struggled to get their game going throughout this Yorkshire Three match. It was their poorest display of the season, but even then they might have won it right at the end until they finally ran out of "get out of jail" cards. Seemingly looking like hanging on for a win, they managed to throw it away by allowing the hosts to score a try and then came back in the dying minutes before doing the same again.

With only three minutes left the Otley side tried to run the clock down, but were finally forced into giving away a penalty close to the halfway line. With the last act of the game Jamie Bloem stepped up to take the long range attempt and snatch victory. His kick had the distance, but drifted agonisingly wide of the left upright.

While both sides looked rusty the home team seemed to have more drive than Rishworthians, although it was the visitors who took the initial lead with an Aaron Canning penalty. The hosts levelled almost immediately and then went ahead with a further penalty before Canning in turn made it 6 - 6. Rishworthians then had their best spell of the game and constant pressure from the pack finally forced a penalty try, to which Canning added a conversion to give the visitors a 13 - 9 half-time lead.

Half time Otliensians 9 - 13 Rishworthians

The home side came out in a determined mood in the second half and the Rishworthian defence had to be strong with centre Chris Flanagan and wing Anthony Shoesmith putting in a number of good tackles. In a rare moment of pressure Bloem almost put Shoesmith in with a fine cross-kick, but Otliensians came straight back and from a melee near the visitors' line a player emerged with the ball and passed to the wing for a try in the corner.

Rishworthians looked dead and buried when a home drop goal extended the lead soon after and then fullback Joe Billing was sin binned after an innocuous looking fracas. Instead it spurred them on. A catch and drive from a lineout near the home line was pulled down for another penalty. Rishworthians opted for another lineout and repeated the move, with flanker Ben Robinson making another catch before being driven over by the pack. Number eight James Clarke got the touchdown and Canning added the conversion to give the visitors a three-point lead with only a few minutes left.

It was then that Rishworthians' defence finally let them down and ineffective tackling allowed a try in the corner. There seemed little chance of a result until the final penalty and Bloem was unable to snatch an unlikely victory.

Full time Otliensians 22 - 20 Rishworthians

Otliensians website

Team
	1. W Aldridge	2. Edmundson	3. Brook
6. Bakoso				7. Robinson
	4. Fox		5. Mc Donnell
		8. Clarke T
9. Morris
	10. Canning C2,P2
		12. C Flanagan
			13. Bloem
11. Shoesmith				14. Davidson
		15. Billing
Subs
	Prashad	Atkinson	Collins

Garforth 0 - 33 Old Rishworthians
Rishworthians make heavy weather to beat Garforth

Match Preview Friday 12th February
Rishworthians resume Yorkshire Three league action with a trip to lowly placed Garforth. They will be hoping to shake off the rustiness they showed in the defeat at Otliensians two weeks ago and select a strong side with only unavailable hooker Simon Edmundson missing from the regular line-up. Bob Collins comes in to deputise for him and Rishworthians have the added bonus of fit again prop Richard Turner on the bench after his return from long term injury. The only other change is a reshuffle in the backs, with fullback Joe Billing moving to centre. Aaron Canning switches to fullback and Jamie Bloem takes over the stand-off berth.

It means a strong line-up for the Copley men, who although they travel as favourites, must not be complacent. They know a win will reignite their push for promotion.

Match report Saturday 13th February Yorkshire 3
Rishworthians were happy with the result, but not necessarily satisfied with the performance. They made heavy weather of beating relegation fodder Garforth, with the lack of match practice being obvious. Despite that there were some good periods of play from the visitors, who scored four tries. Centre Chris Flanagan scored two of them, showing lightning pace and No 8 James Clarke the other in classic textbook style.

Basically it was all Rishworthians for most of the game and they might have have scored more, being brought back twice for forward passes. Playing down the slope they were straight on the attack, and, after several errors, centre Joe Billing put them ahead with a well taken drop goal.

Despite all their possession, the visitors were not as cohesive as usual and it took them some time to get into their stride. Flanagan almost got in with a great run, but he was soon on hand to finish off Rishworthians' first try. Fullback Aaron Canning jinked his way out of defence and kicked through. Right wing Anthony Shoesmith, who had another fine game, was quick to gather it. He linked with Billing and Flanagan took the final pass to race through and touch down. Canning added the conversion and soon after Canning kicked a penalty gained after a strong run by Clarke.

Shoesmith almost got in on the end of a crossfield kick by Jamie Bloem, but it gave the Copley men position for a scrum near the home line. Clarke was unstoppable as he picked up and drove over in the corner to give Rishworthians an 18-point half-time lead.

Half time Garforth 0 - 18 Rishworthians

The second half opened with a penalty by Canning and then the visitors became bogged down for several minutes before the forwards took charge and drove the ball upfield. Eventually the ball was fed out and Bloem worked a fine move with Flanagan for the centre to burst through under the posts. Canning converted. The last points came after some great play by the pack. First Clarke, lock Chris Fox and replacement prop Richard Turner linked well before the rest of the forwards came round and gained more than 25 yards in a rolling maul. It resulted in a scrum near the home line and Clarke was able to pick up and drive over the line in a repeat of his first half try to complete the scoring.

Full time Garforth 0 - 33 Rishworthians

Garforth website

Team
	1. W Aldridge	2. Collins	3. Brook
6. Bakoso				7. Robinson
	4. Fox		5. Mc Donnell
		8. Clarke T2
9. Morris
	10. Bloem
		12. C Flanagan T2
			13. Billing DG
11. Shoesmith				14. Davidson
		15. Canning C2,P2
Subs
	Rollings	Atkinson	Turner

Old Rishworthians 37 - 13 Halifax Vandals
Last quarter sees Rishworthians home against spirited Vandals

Match Preview Friday 19th February
Rishworthians go into the Yorkshire Three derby clash with Vandals as firm favourites. Lying in second spot their league form is far superior to Vandals, but derby games between the two sides are usually a great leveller. Home advantage is often the difference, although back in November, Rishworthians pulled off 26 - 16 win at Warley. There is added spice in the tie as the John Payne Trophy will be at stake for the winner.

In the victory at Warley, Rishworthians always had the edge, but could not grasp the tie until well into the second half, and know they cannot afford to take Vandals lightly in the return. The Copley men are eager for the win to keep their promotion drive on track, while towards the other end of the division Vandals are desperate not to slip into the relegation zone.

Rishworthians name a strong squad, although they are without unavailable hooker Simon Edmundson and left wing Nick Faulkner. Bob Collins again fills the front row berth and Lee Atkinson comes in on the wing. The only other change to the team which won at Garforth sees flankers Ben Robinson and Gerard Rollings swopping places between the back row and the bench.

Match report Saturday 20th February Yorkshire 3
Seventeen points in the last 10 minutes made this look like a convincing win for Rishworthians, but it was anything but. Vandals took the game to the home side and dominated large chunks of the match, while Rishworthians turned in one of their poorest performances of the season. It was not until the last quarter that they switched on to their normal game - until then it looked like Vandals were the team pushing for promotion, not the Copley Men.

While Vandals coach Chris Davies had been building his players up for the match, Rishworthians player-coach Jamie Bloem had been trying to erase the derby game feeling from his team. Davies praised the attitude of his team. "Our boys were really up for it and began to believe in their own ability. "But we could not turn our opportunities into points. Rishworthians' experience showed and they created their opportunities and took them well." Bloem meanwhile had given his players a firm dressing down for their first half display which brought out a much better performance in the second half, ending with their points spree.

With Aaron Canning unable to shake off an ankle injury sustained last week, Joe Billing dropped back to fullback, and later played a crucial role to score the best try of the game. Rishworthians started the game in style and soon gained a scrum near the Vandals' line after a fine movement in the backs. James Clarke drove on from No8 and was well supported by flanker Jioti Bakoso, before the ball was fed out. Anthony Shoesmith came round from his wing to take the pass and score. Bloem added the conversion.

It was a good beginning from Rishworthians, but everything changed from the restart. They gave away a penalty and Vandals took charge for most of the half. First, stand-off Paul Knapping landed the penalty after an infringement from the restart. Then right wing Shane Lewis, who proved difficult to handle throughout the game, almost got in from a Knapping kick, but Shoesmith was quick to cover. Then in a well worked move, Knapping switched inside for centre Jack Bradbury to burst through and touch down. Knapping added the conversion. Bloem levelled the score with a penalty. But just before the break Vandals scrum half Andrew Fox was high tackled and Knapping made no mistake to give Vandals a 13 - 10 half-time lead.

Half time Rishworthians 10 - 13 Halifax Vandals

Rishworthians were keen to throw the ball around in the second half, but seemed to be going nowhere until Clarke kicked through a loose ball at the back of a lineout. He kicked on again and won the race to touch down. Bloem added the conversion and then Bloem kicked a penalty to give Rishworthians a 20 - 13 lead.

Vandals came back strongly and put Rishworthians under pressure. The game was still up for grabs, but when Knapping missed a simple-looking penalty, it gave the home side a lift. Shoewsmith almost got in from a kick through and then seconds later he was used well as a decoy by Billing who popped up in the back line and darted through a seemingly non-existent gap to touch down. Bloem added the conversion, and soon after Bloem landed another penalty. In the final minute, Shoesmith picked up a loose ball and darted 50 yards to score. Bloem added the conversion.

Full time Rishworthians 37 - 13 Halifax Vandals

Vandals website

Team
	1. W Aldridge	2. Collins	3. Brook
6. Bakoso				7. Rollings
	4. Fox		5. Mc Donnell
		8. Clarke T
9. Morris
	10. Bloem C4, P3
		12. C Flanagan
			13. Davidson
11. Shoesmith T2				14. Atkinson
		15. Billing T
Subs
	Robinson	T Brian	Turner

Wath upon Dearne 15 - 3 Old Rishworthians
Rishworthians promotion drive suffers a set back

Match Preview Friday 27th February
Rishworthians face a difficult task in a rearranged game at Wath upon Dearne in Yorkshire Three. The South Yorkshire side gave Rishworthians a stern test at Copley in only the second game of the league campaign and last week convincingly beat Old Otliensians, one of only two sides to beat Rishworthians this season. But the visitors received a huge boost in confidence with a 37-13 win over local rivals Vandals last week and will be keen to keep the momentum going.>/p>

They are forced into one change with influential No 8 James Clarke unavailable. Tony Oxley returns from college duties to come into the second row, with Chris Fox dropping back to take his place in the back row. Nick Faulkner returns to the left wing after missing the victory over Vandals and Rishworthians will be hoping Aaron Canning has recovered from the injury which kept him out of that game.

With nearest challengers Bramley Phoenix in cup action, another win for the Copley men will help to cement their position in the second of the two promotion places.

Match report Saturday 28th February Yorkshire 3
Rishworthians suffered a setback to their promotion drive and never recovered from an opening 12-point salvo. The home side always had the edge and even the visitors' pack, which has been dominant all season was made to look ordinary. In-form Wath were on the attack down the slope from the start and only desperate defence kept the score down to 12 - 0 at half-time.

Rishworthians barely got out of their own half and were under constant pressure for the whole of the first period. They rallied in the second half and took the game to the home side. But it was stalemate with both sides only registering a penalty each. It was clear they missed unavailable No 8 James Clarke and hooker Simon Edmundson and were still without Aaron Canning, whose ankle injury had not cleared up.

The Copley men were unable to break through the Wath defence in the second half and once Jamie Bloem had missed the second of two very kickable penalties, they knew it was not to be their day. The game had hardly started before Wath scored their first try, with a home player slicing through a midfield gap to touch down wide out. From then it was all the home side, with desperate defence from Rishworthians. The fast-running Wath backs looked dangerous whenever they had the ball and the big heavy pack was in complete control.

There was almost a try in the corner by Wath, but the right wing stepped in touch only inches from the line. From the lineout a poor tap down resulted in a five-metre scrum and the home pack drove forward for a pushover try. The conversion made in an uphill task for Rishworthians and they did well to keep the home side at bay for the rest of the half, particularly holding off other pushover attempts. They saw little of the ball except in desperate defence. Young lock Tony Oxley drove well out of defence, but the visitors could make little headway and were soon back on their line again. They hung on until half-time and then came back strongly in the second half.

Half time Wath 12 - 0 Rishworthians

A good driving maul by the forwards gained them a penalty, which Bloem kicked, then winger Nick Faulkner, who barely touched the ball throughout the game had a strong run before Wath replied with a penalty. Rishworthians took charge of most of the rest of the game, but lacked any spark and were unable to break through. Two penalty chances might have got them back into the game, but Bloem was off form with the boot and the game petered out.

Full time Wath 15 - 3 Rishworthians

Wath website

Team
	1. W Aldridge	2. Collins	3. Brook
6. Bakoso				7. Rollings
	4. Oxley		5. Mc Donnell
		8. Fox
9. Morris
	10. Bloem P
		12. C Flanagan
			13. Davidson
11. Shoesmith				14. Faulkner
		15. Billing
Subs
	Atkinson	T Brian	Turner

Northallerton 12 - 18 Old Rishworthians
Northallerton make Rishworthians work hard for victory

Match Preview Friday 5th March
Rishworthians travel to lowly placed Northallerton in Yorkshire Three knowing they need a victory to keep promotion hopes on track. They need to show better form than they did at Wath Upon Dearne last week and hope Aaron Canning has fully recovered from injury and welcome back No 8 James Clarke, hooker Simon Edmundson and flanker Ben Robinson. Lock Ian Teasdale also comes into the squad for the first time this season with James McDonnell absent.

The absence of pack regulars last week was particularly noticeable at Wath where Rishworthians never really got into their stride. While they came back strongly in the second half, the damage was done in the first half when they were completely outplayed in the pack. Player coach Jamie Bloem and forwards coach John Clough will be keen for the team to regain the momentum they had built up before Christmas, which has not fully returned following the enforced lay-off due to the weather.

Match report Saturday 6th March Yorkshire 3
The steep slope proved a leveller, but Rishworthians came through despite a scare. Northallerton have always proved a tough proposition for Rishworthians and were the last team to beat them at Copley - last season. The lowly Yorkshire Three club have had a number of close results this season and showed how to use their home slope to great advantage in the second half. But boosted by the return of No 8 James Clarke, hooker Simon Edmundson, who had a fine game throughout, and fullback Aaron Canning coming back from injury, Rishworthians showed solid defence to keep the home side out in the last quarter.

The slope is worth about 10 points and Rishworthians duly obliged in the first half, but it ought to have been more. Wings Nick Faulkner and Fraser Davidson had chances and there was good running from centre Chris Flanagan and Canning. But both Canning and player/coach Jamie Bloem missed penalties, before Bloem put the visitors ahead with a kick.

There were strong runs from lock Tony Oxley and Clarke, who was held up over the line. But Clarke scored minutes later, touching down a pushover scrum. Bloem converted. There was plenty more pressure from Rishworthians, but good defence from Northallerton held them to a 10 - 0 lead at half-time.

Half time Northallerton 0 - 10 Rishworthians

Playing uphill in the second period, Rishworthians wondered if the 10 points would be enough. They soon found out it was not as the home side piled on the pressure in the opening minutes. Camped on the Rishworthian line they managed to tie in defenders and move the ball quickly wide for the inevitable try, which was converted. Things went from bad to worse a few minutes later when a charged down kick bounced kindly for the home right wing to touch down in the corner for an unconverted try.

Rishworthians were undeterred and hit back almost immediately to retake the lead with a long range Bloem penalty. It was the spur they needed and they had a sustained period of attack before increasing their lead. The ball went wide from a scrum and Flanagan almost got through. It was recycled and Bloem switched play with a clever crossfield kick, which was well gathered by Faulkner, who ran to touch down in the corner.

The home side threw everything at the visitors in the final minutes, but Rishworthians' defence was such, they did not so much as hang on, but merely snuffed out every move.

Full time Northallerton 12 - 18 Rishworthians

Northallerton website

Team
	1. Fox	2. Edmundson	3. Brook
6. Bakoso				7. Rollings
	4. Oxley		5. Teasdale
		8. Clarke T
9. Morris
	10. Bloem C,P2
		12. C Flanagan
			13. Billing
11. Davidson				14. Faulkner T
		15. Canning
Subs
	Atkinson		Turner

Old Rishworthians 29 - 9 Modernians
5 try haul for Rishworthians

Match Preview Friday 12th March
Rishworthians will field their strongest squad when they host lowly Old Modernians in Yorkshire Three. With a weaker squad back in November they travelled to the Leeds club and came away with a 36 - 17 victory and will be favourites to bag the points despite Mods' victory last week over fourth-placed Thornensians.

Back after injury for Rishworthians is in-form winger Anthony Shoesmith, while lock James McDonnell and flanker Ben Robinson return to the pack, with prop Richard Turner making his first start in a game after two games on the bench after long-term in jury.

The Copley men started to show a return to their best form with both good attacking and defensive rugby in last week's win at Northallerton and will be keen to step up another gear against Mods. They will also be keeping an eye on the game at league leaders Roundhegians, where the home side will take on Bramley Phoenix, the main challengers to Rishworthians in the push for promotion places.

Match report Saturday 13th March Yorkshire League 3
Rishworthians were always in control of this match and could have scored more with better finishing. But they created numerous chances and gained a five-try haul with some exciting rugby. Modernians' quick running backs looked dangerous with the ball, but the Copley men were on top in defence and had this Yorkshire Three game well in hand.

Rishworthians also showed their pace, with Aaron Canning coming into the line to great effect from fullback and in-form right wing Anthony Shoesmith grabbing another two tries. It was a good performance by Rishworthians, only slightly marred by a short spell around the break when they conceded three penalties in quick succession. But it did little to spoil a result, which looked inevitable from the start, especially after Shoesmith's early first try.

The home side began the offensive straight from the whistle and created several chances, the best coming from a Canning break. They were soon on the scoreboard. Flanker Ben Robinson did well to rescue and recycle a loose ball. It went along the line and a fine pass from centre Joe Billing put Shoesmith in at the corner.

Risworthians second try came when James Clarke picked up at the base of scrum and set off on a strong run. His pass was almost intercepted, but the ricochet was well read by Shoesmith, who gathered the ball and powered in for his second try. Jamie Bloem converted.

A third try just before half-time virtually sealed it for Rishworthians. Scrum half Gary Morris gave a crafty inside pass to hooker Simon Edmundson. He linked with teenage lock Tony Oxley, who gave the final offload to the supporting Morris for a well worked try. With the last act of the first half, the home men conceded the first of three penalties.

Half time Rishworthians 17 - 3 Modernians

Modernians started well in the second half forcing Rishworthians to give away two more penalties virtually from the restart which were both converted.

Undeterred Rishworthians hit back strongly. There was good linking play between flanker Chris Fox, Morris and Clarke before Jioti Bakoso, who had come on as lock at half-time took the ball over for a try, which Bloem converted. Prop Wes Aldridge was held up over the line and Rishworthians created several more chances before Canning again came into the line and burst through for a well deserved try.

Full time Rishworthians 29 - 9 Modernians

Modernians website

Rishworthians v Modernians Slideshow.
Click on arrows to view more photos, click on photo to enlarge.
View

Team
	1. Turner	2. Edmundson	3. Brook
6. Fox				7. Robinson
	4. McDonnell		5. Oxley
		8. Clarke
9. Morris T
	10. Bloem C2
		12. Billing
			13. Flanagan
11. Shoesmith T2				14. Faulkner
		15. Canning T
Subs
	Bakoso T	W Aldridge	Davidson

Old Rishworthians 48 - 0 Thornensians
Rampant Rishworthians in 7 try haul

Match Preview Friday 19th March
Renewed confidence and momentum mean Rishworthians will be favourites when they entertain Thornensians in Yorkshire Three. A convincing win over Old Moderians last week and a hard fought victory at Northallerton the week before have boosted the Copley men in their drive for promotion. The long lay-ff for bad weather did them no favours, but they seem to have managed to return to the fine form they showed before Christmas.

When they played at Thorne earlier in the season, they dominated the game, but only sneaked a win in the dying moments against a side who provided them with their record 104 - 7 win almost 10 years ago. So they will be keen to put in a fine performance at home. Although teenage lock Tony Oxley and prop Richard Turner are unavailable, they still field a strong squad and aim to strengthen their promotion push.

The only team who might spoil that aim is Bramley Phoenix, but theirs is a harder run-in than Rishworthians who have four home games in their last five and must meet Bramley at Copley in what seems likely to be their last league match of the season.

Match report Saturday 20th March Yorkshire League 3
Rishworthians oozed confidence to cruise to a seven-try victory and consolidate their drive for promotion from Yorkshire Three. The South Yorkshire visitors could not handle the Copley men and particularly No 8 James Clarke, who put in a towering performance to score a hat trick of tries and might have had even more.

Rishworthians had the confidence to try out a number of moves and their first try came in classic textbook style in the opening minutes. A forward drive led by flanker Jioti Bakoso took play into the Thorne half. The ball was fed out and fullback Aaron Canning burst into the line to take a long pass from stand-off Jamie Bloem and put left wing Nick Faulkner in at the corner.

Canning almost got through again minutes later and right wing Anthony Shoesmith could not quite make it from his own kick through. Rishworthians then went further ahead with Clarke getting his first try - touching down a forward drive after a good catch in the lineout by flanker Ben Robinson. Bloem added the conversion.

The powerful No 8 then had a couple of strong runs before getting his second try in style. Robinson again won the ball in the lineout, bringing it down for prop Wes Aldridge to slip it to Clarke who set off on 25-metre run, shrugging off tacklers to power over. Bloem added the conversion to give Rishworthians a 19 - 0 half-time lead.

Half time Rishworthians 19 - 0 Thornensians

Straight from the start of the second half Bloem added a penalty. Canning and centre Chris Flanagan combined in a flowing move, which almost brought a score, before Clarke got his third try touching down from a pushover scrum. Bloem added the conversion.

The No 8 was then instrumental in setting another try straight from the restart. He gathered the kick and set off on a powerful 50-metre run. When he was finally hauled down, the ball was quickly shipped out and centre Joe Billing made a half-break before slipping the ball out to the supporting Flanagan, who looped round and darted through on the wing to touch down wide out.

Rampant Rishworthians were throwing the ball about at every opportunity and after inter-passing between forwards and backs, Faulkner suddenly made space for himself and burst through to score his second try. Bloem again converted.

In the final minutes there was another fine move in the home backs before Clarke took the ball on near the line and slipped it to Bakoso for the flanker to touch down. Canning completed the final conversion to give Rishworthians another outstanding victory.

Full time Rishworthians 48 - 0 Thornensians

Thornensians website

Team
	1. Aldridge	2. Edmundson	3. Brook
6. Bakoso T				7. Robinson
	4. McDonnell		5. Fox
		8. Clarke T3
9. Morris
	10. Bloem C4,P
		12. Billing
			13. Flanagan T
11. Shoesmith				14. Faulkner T2
		15. Canning C
Subs
	Rollings	Collins	Davidson

Leodiensians 17 - 21 Old Rishworthians
Rishworthians leave it late to secure victory

Match Preview Friday 26th March
With no league fixture, Rishworthians take the opportunity to allow some of their senior players to take a week off. They field a youthful looking line-up in a game at Leodiensians, with teenager James Kidd coming in to take skipper Gary Morris's place at scrum half. Fraser Davidson takes on the stand-off berth and Lee Atkinson comes in on the wing. With prop Richard Turner returning after a week's absence, Martin Brook drops into the second row and Gerard Rollings starts in the back row.

Match report Saturday 27th March Friendly
A weakened Rishworthian team learned what life might be like after promotion. Leos' second string is classed as almost on a par with the first team, whom Rishworthians can expect to meet if they gain promotion to Yorkshire Two. With eight of their main players missing, including both halfbacks and the whole of the back row, and with several players playing out of position, it was always going to be difficult. But the fact the club was still able to field two teams, both playing away and both winning, shows that strength in depth is beginning.

Once again Rishworthians came strong at the end and forwards coach John Clough said: "It was a good lesson for us as to what a big step up promotion would be." Young Will Brian stepped adequately into skipper Gary Morris's role at scrum half and Joe Billing sampled his first attempt at stand-off. He started confidently and, although he struggled a little midway, proved to be a match winner in the end.

Rishworthians left it till late to take a game in which they always trailed, Billing snatching a try with the last act and then adding a conversion to gain a victory which at one point had seemed unlikely, especially as Brian had been denied what seemed a perfect try. The strong well-drilled Leos pack proved a constant threat, although the visitors might have scored first, but centre Chris Flanagan was just unable to hang on to an interception. Forward pressure told and Rishworthians could not prevent a try, which was converted. But they hit back almost straight from the restart.

Once the ball had been handed back to them Fraser Davidson set off on a powerful run. Nobody could handle the centre as he broke through several would-be tackles to power over. Billing converted. After a number of decisions failed to go their way, the visitors conceded a scrum near their line and the No8 pick-up from the base of the scrum led to an unconverted try to give the home side a 12 - 7 half-time lead.

Half time Leodiensians 12 - 7 Rishworthians

Rishworthians found themselves on the back foot for much of the second half, but their defence held until a catch and drive from a lineout brought another home try. As the game drew to a close, the Copley men began to dominate. Winger Nick Faulkner, who came on during the half, moved to No 8. He picked up at the base of the scrum and drove over for a try with five minutes left. Billing converted.

Rishworthians were now rampant. There was still time for Brian to be denied and the possibility of a penalty try, before the quick-thinking Billing took a tap penalty from five metres and touched down. Billing then added the conversion before the final whistle.

Full time Leodiensians 17 - 21 Rishworthians

Leodiensians website

Team
	1. W Aldridge	2. Collins	3. Edmundson
6. Turner				7. Rollings
	4. McDonnell		5. Teasdale
		8. Fox
9. W Brian
	10. Billing T, C3
		12. DavidsonT
			13. Flanagan
11. Atkinson				14. N Aldridge
		15. Shoesmith
Subs
		Faulkner T

Aireborough 19 - 37 Old Rishworthians
Rishworthians maintain their push for promotion

Match Preview Friday 9th April
Rishworthians travel to Aireborough knowing they cannot afford to slip up in the race for promotion from Yorkshire Three. They name a strong squad only missing unavailable No 8 James Clarke and will be keen to continue the momentum they had regained after the winter enforced break.

Rishworthians played Aireborough at Copley in the snow just before Christmas, when they were having their best spell of the season and registered a 35 - 5 victory. They will be hoping to continue where they left off and with wingers Anthony Shoesmith and Nick Faulkner in good form will be keen to get the ball wide. Aaron Canning missed the pre-Christmas game with injury, but will resume at fullback for the trip to fourth-placed Aireborough.

Only Bramley Phoenix can deny them promotion and the two clubs are scheduled to meet at Copley for the last game of the season.

Match Report Saturday 10th April - Yorkshire 3
At times Rishworthians were brilliant and at times they were own worst enemies, but they scored some superb tries and kept their promotion drive from Yorkshire Three on track. They made a tremendous start, and being an 80-minute team ended well. In between they had a number of wobbles and showed some rustiness from an enforced two-week lay-off. But in the end their class showed and they did not let the difficulties of the game get to them. Those difficulties started with the last minute hunt for a replacement referee which caused a 25-minute delay to kick-off.

It might have affected some teams, but Rishworthians rose above it and were on the scoresheet almost immediately. From Aireborough's kick-off there was a scrum. The visitors won the ball and stand-off Jamie Bloem set off on a run from within his own 22. His long pass missed out the centres and found fullback Aaron Canning. He made a fine break before feeding the ball to left wing Nick Faulkner, who went past his man and ran in under the posts for a fine try after just over a minute. Bloem added the conversion.

.

Four minutes later they went further ahead when centre Joe Billing picked up a ricochet and ran over. Bloem added the conversion. Just when it was looking so easy for Rishworthians, they went back into their shell. They ceased to go through the phases and started giving away penalties. While the home side never looked like breaching their defence, they clawed back the points with four successful penalty kicks. It was with some relief for the visitors that Bloem extended what had begun to look like a fragile lead with a penalty on the stroke of half-time to make it 12 - 17 at the break.

Half time Aireborough 12 - 17 Rishworthians

Rishworthians improved considerably in the second half and two further Bloem penalties restored their confidence before the try of the game. Canning and Bloem brought the ball almost from their own line, before player of the season, right wing Anthony Shoesmith cut in inside to take the ball and slice through the home defence. He was supported by replacement flanker Gerard Rollings who took a short pass and cruised under the posts. Bloem added the conversion. Aireborough did not lie down, however and the Rishworthian defence was caught flatfooted by a fine burst from the home stand-off for a converted try.

Undeterred the visitors hit back strongly and prop Richard Turner gathered a tap down from a lineout and drove for the line. He was stopped just short, but got the ball away to flanker Jioti Bakoso who powered over. Bloem added the conversion with the last act of the game.

Full time Aireborough 19 - 37 Rishworthians

Aireborough website

Team
	1. Turner	2. Edmundson	3. Brook
6. Bakoso T				7. Robinson
	4. Oxley		5. Mc Donnell
		8. Fox
9. Morris
	10. Bloem C4,P3
		12. C Flanagan
			13. Billing T
11. Shoesmith				14. Faulkner T
		15. Canning
Subs
	Rollings T	W Aldridge	Davidson

Old Rishworthians 47 - 13 Baildon
Rishworthians need another win for promotion

Match Preview Friday 16th April
Rishworthians field a full-strength squad as they entertain lowly Baildon in Yorkshire Three. With growing confidence in their play, they will hope to do the double over a side they defeated 10 - 6 away from home in the first league fixture of the season. After the boost of a fine win at Aireborough last week they welcome back influential No 8 James Clarke, who missed that game.

They take the opportunity to rotate their forwards, allowing Gerard Rollings to start in the back row, while centre Joe Billing drops to the bench after an injury knock in last week's game, with Fraser Davidson taking his place in the starting line-up.

Rishworthians are fighting for honours on two fronts. As well as the promotion drive, they have high hopes in the Yorkshire Silver Trophy and have scheduled their long delayed quarter final against Aireborough for next Wednesday (KO 6.30pm). It would be a fitting success for Rishworthians who won the trophy exactly 20 years ago and would crown a fine season.

Match Report Saturday 17th April - Yorkshire 3
Rishworthians cruised to victory in Yorkshire Three without ever hitting top form. They started well and finished brilliantly, but in between became frustrated as the dogged Baildon defence kept them out. The visitors were strong and competitive in the first half and might have scored a couple of tries but for the touchline and a last ditch tackle from lock Chris Fox. In the second half Rishworthians became dominant and ended by registering seven tries.

Within two minutes of the start, No 8 James Clarke had crossed at the back of a lineout only to be called back for an earlier infringement. A series of scrums followed before Clarke picked up and drove over. Jamie Bloem converted. Rishworthians then battered the visitors line and there were several strong runs by left wing Nick Faulkner, but Baildon held them out and came back strongly.

Rishworthian indiscretions allowed the visitors to get within one point through two penalties and sloppy tackling almost saw them score until the Copley men got the relieving try on the stroke of half-time. It came after good work on the blind side by Faulkner and hooker Simon Edmundson before the ball was switched and flanker Gerard Rollings took an inside pass from Bloem to touch down. Bloem converted with the last act of the half.

Half time Rishworthians 14 - 6 Baildon

Rishworthians started the second period on the attack and replacement Jioti Bakoso almost got over before the ball was recycled and Faulkner dived over in the corner. Aaron Canning converted with a fine touch line kick. Edmundson then went over to score in a well worked try after scrum half Gary Morris had been held up just short of the line. Canning converted.

Baildon got consolation points with a converted interception try before Rishworthians finished the game off with three more tries. First Rollings popped up to take the final pass and score his second try after a period of forward pressure. Then Morris almost got over from a quick tap penalty but Bakoso was on hand to take the ball and crash over for his fourth try in as many games. Canning added the conversion.

In the last minute right winger Anthony Shoesmith almost got in, but when the ball went loose centre Joe Billing, following up, gathered it and touched down. Canning who was in form with the boot added the touch line conversion with another fine kick to end the game.

Full time Rishworthians 47 - 13 Baildon

Baildon website

Team
	1. Turner	2. Edmundson T	3. Brook
6. Rollings T2				7. Robinson
	4. Oxley		5. Fox
		8. Clarke T
9. Morris
	10. Bloem C2
		12. C Flanagan
			13. Davidson
11. Shoesmith				14. Faulkner T
		15. Canning C4
Subs
	Mc Donnell	Billing T	Bakoso T

Old Rishworthians 46 - 17 Aireborough
Rishworthians cruise into Silver Trophy Semi Final

Match Preview Tuesday 20th April
Rishworthians will be fielding a full strength team for their long delayed Yorkshire Silver Trophy quarter-final game at Copley (6.30. They will be looking to defeat Aireborough for the third time this season, with the winners away at Old Otliensians on May 1 in the semi-final. Rishworthians will be hoping to repeat their feat of 20 years ago when they won the competition to register the first major success in their history.

Match report Wednesday 21st April Silver Trophy Qtr Final

Rishworthians cruised into the semi-final of the Yorkshire Silver Trophy beating Aireborough for the third time this season. The visitors proved tricky opposition as they have in the league, but again Rishworthians after a nervy first half gave a fine second half performance, inspired by fullback Aaron Canning and player coach Jamie Bloem. Canning kicked five conversions, while Bloem added two penalties and two tries. Centre Chris Flanagan also scored twice as the visitors failed to cope with the pace of the Rishworthian backs.

Bloem gave them an early lead with a penalty, but Aireborough then levelled the scores. Canning gathered his own chip kick and fed Flanagan for his first try. Bloem added a second penalty before sloppy tackling let the visitors in for an unconverted try followed by a second penalty to make it 11 points each. Just before the break Bloem ran through for a try converted by Canning and Aireborough still had time to register a drop goal.

Half time Rishworthians 18 - 14 Aireborough

While they added a penalty in the second half the visitors could not hold Rishworthians as they scored four more tries, all converted by Canning.

Centre Flanagan's pace took him in for a second and Bloem cruised over after good work by Canning and centre Joe Billing.

Flanker Gerard Rollings almost put Bloem in again, but hooker Simon Edmundson was there to gather and touch down. Finally Rollings emerged from a mass of players and raced through to score

Full time Rishworthians 46 - 17 Aireborough

Aireborough website

Team
	1. Turner	2. Edmundson T	3. Brook
6. Rollings T				7. Robinson
	4. Oxley		5. Bakoso
		8. Fox
9. Morris
	10. Bloem T2,P2
		12. C Flanagan T2
			13. Billing
11. Shoesmith				14. Faulkner
		15. Canning C5
Subs
	McDonnell	T Brian	P Henry-Jackson	Davidson

Old Rishworthians 26 - 25 Roundhegians
Last gasp try gives Rishworthians promotion

Match Report Saturday 24th April
Two tries in the last 10 minutes gained Rishworthians promotion to Yorkshire Two in dramatic style. They had to beat the previously undefeated league champions to ensure they went up with them. With Roundhegians keen to maintain their unbeaten status it proved an exciting and entertaining game. As in previous games Rishworthians started well and finished superbly, but had to come from behind to snatch victory in the final minutes.

It was the third promotion in a row for the Copley men and for club captain Gary Morris it was the sweetest. "We've really had to work harder this season than before. We've taken on board what coaches Jamie Bloem and John Clough have told us and we've done it. It's been a fantastic achievement." The Roundhegians game was always going to be the toughest for Rishworthians and they had to do it without two of their best players, No8 James Clarke and wing Nick Faulkner.

Although they started well and were the first to score, at one stage victory looked unlikely, especially when they trailed by 11 points. While both sides made mistakes, the visitors were always quick to pounce on home errors. But all season Rishworthians have shown that they play to the end and this game was no exception. Again they started well. Flanker Gerard Rollings put in a great run and linked with left wing Anthony Shoesmith. The ball was moved back inside and then Bloem switched play with a short kick, which was gathered by centre Joe Billing, who touched down in the corner.

The visitors hit back with a penalty and a mistake near their own line cost Rishworthians dear as Roundhegians forwards were quickly there and the ball was fed out for try in the corner by winger Adrian Hogg. As the visitors pressed, tricky stand-off Chris Pratt left the home defence trailing as he crossed for a try, which was converted.

Bloem reduced the arrears with two penalties in as many minutes, before Pratt again caught out Rishworthians to score his second converted try and make the half-time score 11 - 22.

Half time Rishworthians 11 - 22 Roundhegians

The home side came out strongly, Shoesmith catching the ball direct from the kick-off before it was fed along the line and Fraser Davidson was stopped just short on the other wing. Morris and No8 Chris Fox combined well, but the ball went loose as the line beckoned. Bloem kicked a penalty, which quickly cancelled out with one by Roundhegians.

Entering the last quarter Rishworthians had begun to take charge. They spurned a penalty chance for a kick to touch which paid dividends. Flanker Ben Robinson caught the ball and he was driven over by the pack with Rollings getting the touchdown.

With little time left Aaron Canning set off on a run on the right. He gave an inside pass to Bloem, who put in a long-raking, inch-perfect, crossfield kick. It was gathered perfectly by player of the year Shoesmith, who went past his man and ran round under the posts. Bloem converted to give Rishworthians a dramatic victory - and promotion.

The second team went down 39 - 14 at Old Brodleians, but there were tries for Tom Brian and Andy Sadler and two conversion by Josh Ferguson.

Full time Rishworthians 26 - 25 Roundhegians

Roundhegians website

Team
	1.Turner	2. Edmundson	3. Brook
6. Rollings T				7. Robinson
	4. Bakoso		5. Oxley
		8. Fox
9. Morris
	10. Bloem C,P3
		12. C Flanagan
			13. Billing T
11. Shoesmith T				14. Davidson
		15. Canning
Subs
	P Henry-Jackson	Atkinson	Teasdale

Old Otliensians 8 - 14 Old Rishworthians
Double still on as Rishworthians reach Trophy Final

Match Preview Tuesday 27th April
Old Rishworthians play their Yorkshire Silver Trophy semi-final on Thursday (KO 6.30pm) at Otley against Old Otliensians. It will be a revenge mission for the Copley club after losing 22 - 20 there in the league in January. After Saturday's excellent victory over Yorkshire Three champions Roundhegians to gain promotion, Rishworthians are brimming with confidence and would like to make it their most successful season ever by winning the Yorkshire Silver Trophy.

It was back in 1990 that the club won the trophy - the first major award in its history - and they must be favourites to repeat that success, especially in view of Otliensians recent poor form. The winners will meet Leeds Corinthians in the final.

Last weekend was probably the most successful in the club's history with with other successes as well as the promotion, which will now give the club its highest ever league position. At junior level, the under 16s won the Yorkshire Bowl - the club's first junior side to lift a county trophy - and at mini level, the under 11s won the Telford Festival, while the under 10s were runners up at the Scarborough Festival.

Match report Thursday 29th April - Silver Trophy Semi Final
Old Rishworthians kept alive their chance of league promotion and a cup double by defeating Otliensians 14 - 8 at Otley in the semi final of the Yorkshire Silver Trophy

The weather could not have been more unkind for the Copley men, as rain fell throughout the afternoon, which did not suite their style of play. Rishworthians again gave the opportunity for their young talent to show their paces with Paul Henry Jackson,at no.8 and replacements, Luke Flanagan, Chris Dyson and Matthew Hunt-Brown.

The Otliensians side attacked from the kick off and used their bigger forwards to gain valuable ground, but lapses in concentration and the wet ball meant that Rishworthian skipper Gary Morris and his half back partner Jamie Bloem kicked the ball away on several occasions. However after 15 minutes good support work between the home backs and forwards saw them crash over for a try which was unconverted. Gerard Rollings made a break in the middle of the field but Old Rishworthians lost the ball, only for Bloem to charge an attacking kick down on the 10 metre line. He kicked the ball on and won the race for the touchdown and converted his own try. Just before half time Bloem had the chance to increase the lead with a penalty, but the long grass and wet conditions meant that the kick fell short. At half time with the score at 7-5, it was still anyone`s game.

Half time Otliensians 5 - 7 Rishworthians

The second half showed why the Old Rishworthians have done so well this season. With limited ball they can defend superbly and time and time again they stopped the home side in their tracks. Martin Brook, Simon Edmundson and Richard Turner in the front row did not give up and the scrums were solid. Ben Robinson and Rollings were winning good lineout ball but from an attack by Otliensians. However Rishworthians conceded a penalty when the referee penalised the centres, the home team kicked the penalty to take a slender one point lead.

At 8-7 the light was beginning to fade, but Old Rishworthians still had the confidence to attack the home threequarters with Chris Flanagan and co centre Joe Billing making some telling breaks. Dyson then followed up a clever grubber kick by Bloem and touched down under the posts for a try converted by Bloem, The match swung to the other end and Rishworthians defended magnificently, with Chris Fox and Anthony Shoesmith making very important tackles. Eventually after 52 minutes of the second half the referee blew his whistle ending the game and the Copley men now play Leeds Corinthians in the final. This was an exceptional defensive effort and coaches Jamie Bloem and John Clough were delighted with the performance.

Full time Otliensians 8 - 14 Rishworthians

Otliensians website

Otliensians v Rishworthians Slideshow.
Click on arrows to view more photos, click on photo to enlarge.
View

Team
	1. Turner	2. Edmundson	3. Brook
6. Rollings				7. Robinson
	4. Fox		5. McDonnell
		8. Henry-Jackson
9. Morris
	10. Bloem T,C2
		12. C Flanagan
			13. Billing
11. Shoesmith				14. Davidson
		15. Canning
Subs
	L Flanagan	M Hunt-Brown	C Dyson T	B Collins