PENRITH RFC 53 v DMPRFC 21

Having lost the first half 27 – 0, Mowden were always fighting the preverbial losing battle, but when Robin EATOUGH crossed for a well worked try after four minutes of the restart, normal service appeared to be resumed. Gavin PAINTER added the extras, to confirm that it all was not just a dream and that Mowden could compete, despite the odds.

The effect of the first half immediately bit back at the restart, as Penrith took advantage and added to their tally, after some hesitation at the restart. The resulting try being added to leaving the score at 34 – 7.

Mowden continued to apply pressure, but were penalised for enterprise whilst trying to force the game, allowing a break out of the Penrith defence and a score against the run of play, which was again converted for a score of 41 – 7.

Mowden again rallied, with Robin EATOUGH adding to his unassailing try tally, crossing the whitewash after a flowing passage of play. Gavin PAINTER again added the extras, with the score now at 41 – 14.

Further pressure by Mowden and some mirrored forcing of the game allowed Penrith to score against the run of play, which compounded Mowden’s plight, as the score was again added to, to take the total to 48 – 14.

A penalty try followed for the visitors, converted by the legitimate try scorer Gavin PAINTER, closing the gap to 48 – 21.

But Penrith had the last laugh, scoring a try at the death, giving a 53 – 21 result.

Taking nothing away from Penrith, who were indeed the better side on the day, this result, being the worst of the season for Mowden was not all of their own making and that is where matters will remain.