It was a tough day at the office for the Ambleside Centurions as they faced one of the bigger rugby clubs in the north, Kirkby Lonsdale.
Although fallen giants now, the visitors arrived with a young and enthusiastic squad and showed real quality throughout the match which they won 39-8.
Despite the scoreline not fully reflecting the contest, the Centurions put in a determined and spirited performance.
Coach Matty Kaye said he was proud of his side’s effort, noting that his side matched Kirkby Lonsdale physically and played some strong phases of rugby.
Kirkby Lonsdale managed to run in six tries, with Will Baines crossing for some impressive finishes and their attack was well led by Stu Storey.
Even so, Ambleside had their moment of magic, particularly a cheeky grubber slipped through the legs of a Kirby Lonsdale defender, allowing Greg Tebbutt to pounce and score a well-earned try.
Also, Cameron Penn kicked a 35 metre penalty from a tight angle to bring the score back to 8-19 with only nine minutes to go.
However, as lots of Ambleside forwards tired, Kirby brought on fresh legs in the pack that made a difference.
Three quick tries in those last few minutes flattered the guests on the scoreboard and both sides left the field with a mutual respect for each other brought about by 80 minutes of physical and intense Cumbrian rugby.
Several Centurions stood out across the park — Archie Carr along with Tadgh Butler and Tom Allday, all put in outstanding shifts.
Their work rate and commitment showed everyone exactly what it means to pull on the Ambleside shirt and play with pride.
An Ambleside spokesman said: “All in all, it was a brilliant day for rugby at the Ambleside club. A big thank you to Kirkby Lonsdale for the game and to the Ambleside boys for putting on a show.
“The result still leaves Ambleside Centurions in the top half of the league in seventh place, something no one in the county would have predicted at the start of the season.”
Next week Ambleside can look forward to a warm welcome on the west coast as they travel to Millom for league game number nine.
