Doherty wins the battle of the boot for Gate

CHESTER’S talented backline was a potent force but it failed to make any inroads against an outstanding Harrogate defence in a tight game in Yorkshire.

The difference between the sides was two penalties to one as Harrogate’s forward superiority was in evidence throughout.

After an even opening, a scrum penalty was eventually awarded and David Doherty’s kick opened Harrogate’s account.

The home side also conceded several penalties during the half but Chester opted for attacking lineouts which were well-contained by Harrogate’s defence.

And more Harrogate attacks ended with an overly-ambitious drop-goal attempt but the pressure continued and, in the last move of the half, Chester went offside and Doherty’s kick made it 6-0.

An early Harrogate penalty attempt was missed, but the home pressure continued and minutes later Harrogate came in from the side at a maul, and Callum Bennett’s kick made it 6-3.

A sustained period of Harrogate pressure on the Chester line resulted in a succession of penalties and a yellow card for Chester’s Kyle Joseph.

Harrogate turned down the goal-kicking opportunities and continued to opt for scrums but the seemingly inevitable penalty try wasn’t awarded.

It was the home scrum which was eventually penalised, enabling Chester to clear their lines.