Injury-hit Houghton are no match for Rockcliff

RUGBY UNION

ROCKCLIFF eventually ran out comfortable 87-0 winners against an injury-hit Houghton side whose contribution to the game, particularly in the second half, is not reflected in the scoreline.

Ryan Rapallo got Rockcliff to a good start with an early try, converted by Rhys Johnstone, who then pitched in with the second try of the game.

Dan Rule and Johnstone added the next two tries, with Johnstone’s effort securing the valuable bonus point.

Both were converted by Johnstone and Rockcliff were looking good at 26 0.

Dean Harrison marked his return to Rockcliff colours with the fifth try of the game, followed by Rob Hamilton and Tom Reid also being on the scoresheet.

Johnstone converted all three and then added the final try of the first half, recording a hat-trick in the process.

The sides changed ends with the Red and Golds leading 52 0.

Doughty Houghton stuck at it in the second half, holding Rockcliff off and testing the Whitley Bay side’s defence when they had good possession.

However, further scores from Rockcliff were inevitable and Harry Ramage crossed the whitewash first, converted again by marksman Johnstone for 59 0.

Rapallo and Steven Pentland were the next to touch down - and again Johnstone added the extras.

As the game drew to a close Rapallo scored his hat-trick try and Rule notched his second, both converted by Johnstone to complete the scoring.

At the halfway stage in the season, Rockcliff hold on to top spot in Durham and Northumberland Division Two, with North Shields, Hartlepool and Sunderland close behind.

Their next two games are at Winlaton and Sedgefield before Rockcliff face Percy Park at home in the traditional Boxing Day fixture.