NORTH Ribblesdale need only one point in their last game to secure the Yorkshire Two league title after an emphatic win against Bramley on Saturday, their fifteenth consecutive league win while setting a new club record that has stood for exactly 30 years.
Ribb started very brightly and were soon on the scoresheet when after impressive interplay, dynamic skipper Alex Dew finished off a fine move.
Shortly after that Ryan Sumner barged his way over following several forward drives. Both efforts were converted by Tom Davidson to give Ribb an early 14-0 lead.
Not to be outdone Bramley attacked and were awarded a couple of penalties which they chose to convert by dangerous full back Caine. This ended the scoring for the first half despite Ribb having most of the play and being in the ascendency, especially in the forwards where Harry Mathew, Adam Middleton and Sam Smith were to the fore.
Ribb played with a slight wind advantage and were soon on the attack. Keeping the ball alive at every opportunity they went close several times until Sam Smith finished off a series of forward drives for a popular score, which was followed by a penalty try to give Ribb a formidable 28-6 lead.
Making a couple of positional changes did nothing to dampen their spirit or the quality of their play, and a further two converted tries were scored. Firstly by irrepressible Simon Bolland on one wing, and then finally Michael Robinson on the right wing finished off yet another flowing backs move.
The last two were converted by Freddie Spensley. Bramley scored a late consolation converted try through Caine who took his personal tally to thirteen points.
This was a statement win (47-13) and showed everything that is good about rugby at North Ribblesdsale at the moment. An expansive style of play is proving a big hit with the public as the bumper crowd was testament to.
This all means that a single point in the away fixture at Ripon will secure the crown. This Ribblesdale side will not be settling for a point and will be going all out to finish off a fine centenary season in style.
A supporters coach will leave the clubhouse at 12.15 at a subsidised cost of £10pp. Anyone wishing to go contact Gavin Davidson 07711 028287. Seats will be allocated on a fist come first served basis and are going quickly .
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