SATURDAY, MARCH 15, 2008AFTER victories over Northern Wanderers 40-0 and Percy Park II 36-3, the seconds were in confident mood going into this final.
They knew the task was a difficult one but set about it in a determined mood.
At the first scrum of the game, they shunted Tynedale, got the ball and set off down field with some determined running from Trevor Kirkup and Aiden Philipson.
But a penalty led to a line-out after 10 minutes. A catch and drive gave Tyndale a try (0-5).
Related stories:- Alnwick RFC 11 Horden RFC 25- Alnwick RFC fixtures, results, reports and league table- Cup glory for Alnwick IIIFrom the restart, Alnwick once again attacked via the direct route but turn-overs created problems as Tynedale were very willing to run the ball back through their three-quarters, although Alnwick's tackling was sharp.
After a period of stalemate in midfield a loose kick was gathered by the Tynedale hooker, who cleverly chipped and side-stepped his way to the line for a converted score (0-12).
Alnwick started the second half with 15 minutes of sustained pressure, keeping the ball tight and feeding Rich Ord at scrum-half.
The big lads in the pack put in some bullocking runs, but the score would not come and when a pass went to ground, Tynedale's quick backs pounced to go the length of the field for 0-17.
The seconds would not lie down and back they came but again turn-over ball resulted in a score to Tynedale which was converted (0-24).
Although Alnwick battled to the end Tyne got another score right on the whistle (0-31).
The best side won but well done to skipper John Spark who has led a team of youngsters mixed with old heads.
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