Yorkshire Cup victory

First round Yorkshire Cup victory for the holders

Hull Ionians Under 16s v Sheffield

Ionians under 16s played host to Sheffield in the first leg of their campaign to retain their Yorkshire Cup title. Ionians fielded a strong squad although certain schools and outside bodies are seeking to prevent some players from representing one of the most successful teams the region has produced for many years.
Within 5 minutes of the kick off, a piercing attack was finished off by Joe Reynard who forced his way over the line from 5 meters . Injuring himself in doing so he was replaced by Alex Griffiths.
Several minutes later, Ben Twilly chased down his own chip from the half way line to put Simon Hammersley in to score try number 2.
Hammersley scored his second shortly after with a typical individual try of the kind Austin Healey and dance partner would be proud.
Full back Sam Wilson who had collected a number of clearances by Sheffield, eventually found enough space to turn on his speed and blasted 30 yards before linking in with Danny Casson who took the move almost to the line before off loading to scrum half Isaac Green to finish off.
Sheffield refused to give in and with a combination between forwards and backs,forced their way under the posts to make it 24 – 5 at the break.
The second half saw a number of changes, including Brad Willingham coming on as Scrum Half and Chris Skelly taking over at loose head prop. Henry Waine who took over at outside centre had a superb game in defence but also made several lightning streaks through the middle of the field in his new found niche.
Danny Casson opened the scoring from a rolling maul and Sam Wilson finished off a slick move across the back line.
Hooker, Dom Carty was replaced due to injury by Domhnall Talbot who was keen to impress in his first game for the club. Talbot although playing out of position had an excellent 20 minutes and demonstrated his strength in possession as well as his fierce tackling.
With 7 minutes to go, Brad Willingham placed a clever chip over the heads of the Sheffield defence and after some fancy footwork by No 8 Hodges who collected the kick, he unselfishly passed to Green who finished under the posts.
The second half also saw appearances from Alistair Wilde, Nathan Franklyn and Ryan Rodgers all of whom demonstrated the strength of the squad and the options for the team selectors.
Several conversions by Hammersley and Wilson took the final score to 45 – 5 and Ionians came away worthy winners.