Upper Eden suffered their worst defeat since moving up into Regional 2 North.
They were beaten 32-3 at Pennine Park by the classy league leaders Percy Park.
From the kick-off Eden had a clear chance to apply some early points and pressure as the kick off was mishandled but unfortunately that was squandered somewhat with a lack of patience in attack.
Park recovered and then powered their way into the game with use of their big forwards in the middle of the pitch and then by utilising strong running backs.
Such a combination provided them with the first try down the left flank and it was converted.
The next period of the game was fairly even with both teams testing each other out in and around the middle of the field.
Eden had several breaks started in the main by John Blue at number eight but they tended to overplay the next phases and not capitalise to turn that pressure into points.
The final 10 minutes of the half saw two successful penalty kicks to Percy Park and one to Upper Eden which produced a half time score of 13-3 to the visitors.
The second half then saw Park pretty much take control of both territory and procession. By retaining the ball for long periods and stringing multi-phases together often in the Eden 22 they were able to secure another try fairly early in the half which was successfully converted.
Eden continued to show stout defence throughout the next period but again continued Park pressure saw them breach the line to race in for another converted try and a commanding 27-3 scoreline.
Eden continued to try and break out of being pinned down in their own half but Park returned any ball back with accuracy and clarity by using their big forwards and backs into the most effective areas.
In the final five minutes play Park were again able to string a skilful back line move together after good ball retention from the forwards and score, their fourth and bonus try, in the corner.
There can be no question of Eden’s efforts or quality in defence but they will need to learn quickly in this league that against good teams, which Park clearly are, they need to be clinical when in the right areas of the pitch and that just as importantly you have to find ways to get yourself out of your own half to put pressure back on your opponent.
Man of the Match was John Blue.
*A youthful Upper Eden Boars faced stiff opposition against an experienced Percy Park 2nds but came out winners 55-28.
The Boars were on the attack from the outset and were awarded a penalty try to open the
scoring. Percy Park showed their intentions and returned to the Boars half with a converted try to make it level.
The game was a competitive affair but the Boars ran out clear winners with tries from Will Simpson (2), Matthew Williamson
(2), Jordan Newitt (2), Will Robinson (2), Mark Tyson (2), Daz Birkbeck,
There were conversions from Brad Chapman (5) and George Edgar (1). Harrison Dargue made his debut for the Boars and it was great to see Tom Buckle, Mark Tyson and Harry Wharton returning to the squad.
Man of the Match was Will Robinson. Match day sponsor was Bainbridge Electrical, Fire and Security and Match Ball sponsor was EMT Plumbing.
