THORNE GAME

Northallerton 1st team produced one of their best displays of the season to secure their 3rd league victory on the trot by beating Thornensians 29-13.
North were missing a couple of key players which meant a shuffle around of players, including young prop Phil Swall being moved to number 8. Swall continued his good form with yet another try, his 5th of the season! But it was Greg Aspin who stole the show with a devastating hat trick of tries, two of which were set up by Captain Dougie Mulholland's extravagant long, looping passing out wide. The third of Aspins tries was a solo effort that started from an interception in his own half, before showing blistering pace to run two thirds of the pitch to touch down. Norths final try came from utility player Tom Young who switches from hooker to centre to flanker with natural ability. Mulholland added two of the five conversions to cap a fine performance.
Thorne scored two breakaway tries but never seriously threatened to halt Norths fine run.
Northallerton also welcomed the return from injury of first team regular prop of nearly 30 years, Nicholas Bainbridge who managed a creditable 30 minute substitute appearance.
Next week Northallerton make the journey to Hemsworth hoping to continue on their winning streak.

With no 2nd team fixture this week, 3rds Captain Giles Drew was tempted to draft a few players in to search of a much needed win against Stocktonians. Thankfully though, he kept faith with his regular 3rd team players who rewarded him with a 22-0 win.
Norths tries came from the ever improving Matt Wheeler (2), Richard Ryder and a try and conversion for Christopher Lawrence Mulholland, who was celebrating his 60th birthday.
North could have scored more but sometimes over complicated proceedings. Winger Tim Pennington on another day could have easily had a hat trick but was foiled at the very last moment on numerous occasions.
Next Saturday Northallerton 2nd team are at home to West Hartlepool 3rd team whilst Northallerton 3rds are away against West Hartlepool 4th team, all kick offs are at 2.15pm.

H Johnson.