Fearn: That was our best of the season
A SCINTILLATING first-half display - coupled with a defensively solid second period ensured Northumbria University M1 secured a home bonus-point 35-19 win over Loughborough at Kingston Park, writes OSCAR MAUNG-HALEY.
The BUSC Super Rugby game began in lively fashion, both sides trading early scores – the score 21-19 in favour of the hosts at half-time.
While the first period was full of scoring, the second was more reserved with Northumbria unable to put the game to bed despite having several excellent chances.
Luckily for the hosts they were finally able to break through the stout Loughborough defence thanks to a sensational solo try from outside centre Lewis Berg, who battered his way through five defenders to extend Northumbria’s lead.
When the final whistle went, an elated head of rugby Darren Fearn could barely contain his delight - going as far as to call his side’s performance the most complete of the season so far.
He said: “I am delighted with the result – the lads put in a real dogged display.
“I am so proud of their effort and to keep Loughborough to no points in the second half was incredible – the defence was outstanding.
“We talked about some issues at half-time and said our defence and ill-discipline were letting us down.
“The lads took everything on board and fair play to them, I was delighted with their response.
“The backs looked really slick and they looked like they were all on the same page.
“I thought the forwards were also brilliant – it was a complete contrast to our last two games.”
With the match in the balance heading late into the second half, it was beginning to look like Northumbria would never cross over for their bonus-point try.
However, Fearn’s side showed their fight, character and resilience to eventually cross over for their fourth and fifth tries late on in the contest.
Fearn added: “I am delighted with how the guys responded.
“When we were two points up and beginning to squander chances, it was in my head this could come back to bite us.
“It was a real test of character for us and to defend a lead and then see it out is something I am extremely proud of.”