Burley V Knaresborough
9th February 2008
Burley 7 - 7 Bramley Phoenix
On a spring like afternoon Burley were hoping to continue with their Home successes. Now unbeaten since 20th Oct. this weeks opponents were our nearest neighbours third placed Bramley Phoenix.
Burley starting down the slope were chasing an early lead, Centre Andy Bissett going close.
An early injury to 2nd row Alex Short had Dan Johnson coming on to Flanker with V Capt. James Palfrey-Smith moving up to replace Short. The Home side were having much of the play but were unable to break down their higher placed opponents.
Burleys middle backs were nearly through on a number occasions, the final pass going astray.
A Half Time a score line of 0-0 made the second period an uphill battle in more ways than one.
Burley continued to attack and a kick into space by Scrum half Mark Walton put the Bramley Winger under pressure. The ball was won and spun out to Centre Henry Bisson, who with a clear overlap strolled in by the posts. Parrish converting.
There was further disruption to the Home scrum when Alex Williams replaced Polish international Milosz Grochowski who came off with an injured hand.
Bramley now sensing defeat through everything at the Home side and only a last ditch tackle by Bisson and new Full Back Jack Hill prevented the Winger scoring in the corner.
Great defence by Burley repelled the visitors, but with 10mins. remaining the Bramley Full Back scored a converted try to bring the scores level.
Not wanting to settle for a draw Burley pressed again and were awarded a penalty 40m out and wide of the posts. Parrish struck the ball well but just failed with his attempt, leaving Burley having to be satisfied with just the one League point.
Next week a trip to bottom placed Stocksbridge, difficult opponents on their Home ground.
J.Sanderson