Another hard-fought encounter with Tynedale, who are always difficult to beat on their own turf. However, the travelling Stour squad matched the hosts’ try tally, earning them a try-scoring bonus point. Twenty points from the boot of Tynedale’s Rob Parker proved the difference on the day.

It took just 2 minutes for Tynedale to open the scoring, with a converted try for flanker Joe Richards. Only 3 minutes later, Stour replied with Stefan Thorp crashing over the line for a try that was converted by Chris Scott. Tynedale crept in front again with a penalty and another converted try on the 30 minute mark by centre Jonny Burden. Stour hit back 7 minutes later with a brilliant break by winger Dan Rundle, putting full back Mark Harrison in for a converted try. On the stroke of half-time, Tynedale extended their lead again with another Rob Parker penalty making the score that the break 20-14.

Straight after the half-time, a five minute blitz from Tynedale saw them score 2 quick-fire converted tries from winger Guy Pike and second row Chris Wearmouth, which opened up a 20 point lead for the home team. Stour weren’t finished there though and it took a big effort in defence for the hosts to keep the visitors from scoring. The persistent pressure finally took its toll and centre Hal Riley went over for an unconverted try on the 60 minute mark. Tynedale kept the scoreboard ticking over with another penalty for Rob Parker, but Stour’s bonus point try came from flanker Nick Cairns on 76 minutes, with Rob Parker sealing the deal on 82 minutes with yet another penalty, making the final score 40-24.

Pics by Andy Cook