Rishworthians’ early try glut

After heavy early morning rain, the match kicked off in dry weather with the home side playing with the strong wind.

Rishworthians scored five tries in the first 25 minutes and their handling in the greasy conditions was impressive.

Ripon took the first scrum against the head but were penalised and fullback Mathew Hunt-Brown made a break and outpaced the defence to score in the corner, Joe Billing converting superbly.

Scrum half Billing was heavily involved in the early passages of play.

After 10 minutes a break by Taniela Bakoso resulted in the supporting Nick Faulkner diving over for an unconverted try.

The home forwards were winning the 50/50 balls and following a Damian Ball break the pacy Rhys Town scored a try which was converted by Billing.

The bonus point came when Billing kicked to the corner and Anthony Shoesmith scored an unconverted try.

Trailing 24-0 after 20 minutes, Ripon eventually put some phases together and moved into the home half.

A penalty relieved the pressure and Billing kicked long for the corner. Following a pick and drive at the lineout, Paul McCumiskey scored near the posts and Billing converted.

Just before half time Ripon were penalised on half way and Billing made it 34-0.

The home supporters were hoping for further scores but Ripon had other ideas. Their forwards started winning more ball and the home defence scrambled to cover on several occasions.

Ripon No 8 Mortimer scored wide out and when Ryan Mudd was yellow carded, a wheeling scrum brought the visitors another five-pointer.

As much as the Rishworthians tried, they could not score again but the bonus point win ensures they are seventh with games away to Roundhegians on April 11 and Sheffield Medicals on April 18 to come.