Ripon RUFC climb to third in the table following fourth consecutive bonus-point victory
Blues continue impressive recent form with comprehensive win on the road at Ilkey Barbarians
Ripon RUFC climbed to third place in Yorkshire Two A after recording a fourth consecutive bonus-point victory when they travelled to Ilkley Barbarians.
The free-scoring Blues followed up recent wins over Malton & Norton 2nds, Driffield 2nds and Northallerton with a comprehensive 40-8 away success on Saturday afternoon.
Flanker Freddy Wharton was the star of the show, scoring his second hat-trick in as many weeks as the men from Mallorie Park crossed for six tries in what turned into another one-sided affair.
Head coach Adam Scott-Paul deployed himself in the front row at tight head prop, helping Ripon establish sustained scrum and line-out dominance.
And the pack’s driving maul produced the opening try for Adam Newcombe, converted by James Cooper for a 7-0 lead.
Ilkley responded with an unconverted try and then kicked a penalty to edge themselves in front at 8-7.
But, the Blues regained control through Wharton’s first score following a break by James Pearce.
Cooper then finished a flowing back-line move before Wharton added his second, securing the try bonus point and a 26-8 half-time advantage.
Ripon maintained their defensive organisation after the interval, preventing their hosts from adding to their total.
However, discipline remains an area for improvement as the visitors conceded 15 penalties, including 11 in the second period, disrupting their attacking continuity.
Allan Hudson, named player of the match, claimed the Blues’ fifth touchdown after strong carrying and a decisive contribution from replacement Tom Graham.
Wharton then completed his hat-trick following another sustained attack, with Clark converting both second-half scores.
Ripon host winless Harrogate RUFC Georgians at Mallorie Park this Saturday afternoon, seeking a fifth straight league victory (2.15pm).