The University of York Rugby Union Football Club

University of York 2nd XV vs University of Sheffield 3rd XV

October 24th, 2009 by Reporter_2nd

University of York 2nd XV 20 vs 12 University of Sheffield 3rd XV

In a tightly contested game, it was substitute James Mortimer that proved the difference. A masterful display at fly-half was capped with a superb drop goal that gifted the home side the lead midway through the second half. Mortimer was only on the field due to an injury, but he showed characteristic class as he wrested control of the match from the visitors.
Despite wet conditions York went into the game still determined to display the attacking verve that typifies their style of rugby. However it was this loyalty to width combined with a greasy ball that saw them concede the first try. Poor handling amongst the backs saw the ball fall to the floor and a lucky fly hack from a Sheffield three quarter was pounced on over the line for the first score.
With a young and inexperienced pack led by the unflappable Phil Johnson, York struggled to find a rhythm. With the forwards ‘under the cosh’ it was left to Mortimer’s deft kicking game and some strong running from centre, Matt ‘Lucy’ Robinson, to provide the home team with valuable territory. Only small errors stopped York from drawing level. However, it was fine try line defence from debutant Jason Cross, that made sure the score was only 7-0 at half time.
The second half proved very different. With the York forwards finally gaining the ascendancy in the tight, it was time for the backs to cut loose. A superbly taken try from Rishi Bojangles cut the deficit, before a penalty and then a drop goal from Mortimer saw York take the lead. Sheffield tried to pin York back with their kicking game but it was to no avail. A final try from Gabriel Atediji, sealed the win in some style.

The second half proved very different. With the York forwards finally gaining the ascendancy in the tight, it was time for the backs to cut loose. A superbly taken try from Ollie Tilney cut the deficit, before a penalty and then a drop goal from Mortimer saw York take the lead. Sheffield tried to pin York back with their kicking game but it was to no avail. A final try from Gabriel Atediji, sealed the win in some style.