Harrogate Pythons RUFC show 'discipline' and a 'clinical edge' during win over Goole RUFC
“Discipline” and “clinical” finishing were key to Harrogate Pythons RUFC’s home victory over Goole, according to John Liley.
The Starbeck-based club ran out 28-21 winners at the Jim Saynor Ground, registering their third league victory of the season in the process.
There was very little between the two sides throughout the contest, and with the scores locked at 21-21 heading into the closing stages, it took a late Rhys Cory try to settle matters.
And coach Liley was thrilled to see his players come out on top.
“This was a determined, disciplined and clinical performance against a very strong Goole outfit,” he said.
“We dug in deep when it mattered, and also capitalised on the majority of the scoring opportunities that we created, which is something that has been missing in previous weeks.
“We also remained patient when Goole were applying pressure on us, and that shows that we have grown in confidence over recent weeks.
“We showed on Saturday what we are capable of producing on the field. It was a complete team performance and we also know that we can get better, too.”
The Pythons took a fifth-minute lead against Goole thanks to Ben Pryor's penalty goal, but the visitors hit back with a converted try.
A second Pryor penalty narrowed the gap to 7-6 and they then edged back in front when Jack Whiting tapped and went himself from a penalty and dived over the line.
Pryor added a third penalty to move ‘Gate further ahead, however the sides went into the interval level after Goole crossed for a second time on the stroke of half-time.
Goole began the second period strongly and the Pythons were forced to dig in for a period.
Having eventually weathered the storm, they got themselves back on the front foot and Joel Misseldine spotted a gap and powered over from close range.
The resulting conversion was added to make the score 21-14, though with 10 minutes remaining, the away team grabbed their third try to restore parity once more.
‘Gate were not to be denied, however, and after a break by Hugh Tatlow, Whiting, Misseldine and Natsuki Barclay combined to set up Corry to finish with 77 minutes on the clock.
Next up for the Pythons is a trip to high-flying Wath Upon Dearne this Saturday.