The relatively short trip to the Station Road, Corbridge HQ of Tynedale RFC, proved a disappointing end to what had previously been a very encouraging first half foray into National League 2 (North) for Mowden.

Having now played all of this league’s opposition, our league position of fifth, is a credit to the new coaching, established players and a vast majority of new players, all of whom have moved the club on from our disastrous 2024/2035 season in National League One.

With the 12-try thriller back at the Darlington Arena in September, ultimately a closely contested affair, yesterday’s result at Corbridge was unexpected with Mowden failing to trouble the scoreboard in a one-sided affair.

Although the surface was very heavy, the half-time score with two converted tries to the home side (0 – 14) this gave no indication of what was to follow after the break, in total contrast to the previous game, where Mowden had dominated after oranges, just falling short of a deserved comeback.

In a closely contested first half, Tynedale were more clinical, scoring when opportunities arose. However, Mowden failed to show the same approach when creating their own opportunities and as a result had nothing to show for their endeavours.

The second half belonged to Tynedale, in a one-sided affair, scoring 3 further tries, two of which were converted, coupled with a penalty and a seldom see drop goal (0 – 39).

Conclusion
All in all, just a bad day at the office. But if anything is to be taken away from either side it is that over the last five years Tynedale have established and developed into a force to be reckoned with in National 2 North, so not a bad end to 2025 from a team pulled together over a number of months in pre-season. On the field, the story was far simpler: two committed sides, one taking their chances and the other falling short on the day. We’ll focus on the rugby, take the lessons, and move forward with the same honesty and work ethic that define this group.

On behalf of the whole club, a big thank you to all our member and supporters of Darlington Mowden Park.
Have A Very Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year
See You Back At The Darlington Arena In 2026!