Sharks triumph with defences to the fore

Elland 10

A FINE display of covering and tackling deservedly earned the Sharks winning points against high-flying Elland in Conference Division Two at Leeds Road.

The man who led by example was skipper John Rourke whose defence was copybook throughout which brought him the man-of-the-match award.

It was a battle of defences, neither side was able to score until the 30th minute when the deadlock was broken by Sharks second row forward Matty Myers, who plunged over the line and Andy Tillotson goaled to put the Sharks 6-0 ahead at half-time.

It was another 30 minutes before the second score came and it was a try by Elland, but the missed conversion proved costly in the end.

The final 10 minutes exploded into a dramatic finish. Sharks centre Adam Masson made the vital breakthrough and galloped 40 yards upfield before sending the supporting Danny Smith over for the try which Tillotson goaled to make it 12-4.

It seemed the Sharks were safe but the visitors hit back almost immediately with a try and goal to narrow the gap to two points.

It brought a tense finish, but the Sharks defended stubbornly to gain victory.

Scrum-half Tillotson had a fine game and his accurate touch kicking was a big feature.

There was also a promising display from Aussie debut boy, Paul Adams at full-back, who only arrived in UK earlier in the week. The Sharks forwards worked hard throughout with strong play from Jonny Numa, Danny Annakin, Chris Jones and Steve Talbot.

On Saturday the Sharks visit West Bowling (2.30pm).