Rockliff result is a real Win bonus as they stay top of the table

ROCKCLIFF ran out convincing 43-0 winners in what could have been a tricky match at resurgent Winlaton.

In a competitive opening period it took 20 minutes for Rockcliff to break the deadlock when Henry Cotton turned the ball over and raced in to score under the posts - giving Rhys Johnstone a simple conversion to open a 7-0 lead.

From the restart Rockcliff kept up the pressure and four minutes later Jamie Fenwick broke down the blind side to score, converted by Johnstone for 14-0.

The game remained in the balance but on the stroke of half-time Fenwick was the provider as his crossfield kick gave winger Ryan Rapallo the chance to race in to touch down, again converted by Johnstone, for 21-0 at the break.

The crucial bonus-point score came on 49 minutes when Rob Hamilton fended off a Winlaton defender and powered through to score Rockcliff’s fourth try.

Johnstone added the extras for 28-0.

Thomas Dawson then extended the Red and Golds’ advantage when he took a crash ball to drive over the line and again Johnstone did the honours, taking Rockcliff clear at 35-0.

Rockcliff’s sixth and final try came when Harry Ramage powered over to score in the corner for 40-0.

With two minutes left Johnstone capped a fine game with the boot when he slotted home a penalty.

Rockcliff maintained top spot in Durham and Northumberand Division Two but have difficult matches at Gosforth this weekend and at home to North Shields on March 9.

TWO-PAGE PICTURE SPECIAL ON SPORT NEWCASTLE’S 2019 RISING STARS OF SPORT AWARD WINNERS IN TOMORROW’S GRASSROOTS