Burley 2nds 21-24 Halifax Vandals 2nd XV

Halifax Vandals 2nds registered a hard-fought win over Burley at Kirkstall after a thrilling contest.

The game was played in the right spirit throughout and was a credit to grassroots rugby, with both the home and away sides bolstered by players from Bramley and Stanley Rodillians.

The Vandals ended up travelling with 11 players after three last-minute drop outs due to positive Covid tests. However two players from Rodillians and two from Bramley ensured that they had 15 players for kick-off.

The game started well for the Vandals as they went 12-0 up through tries from Ben Fleming and stand-in No 8 Richard from Stanley Rodillians and one conversion from Ben Simms.

Burley fought back to cross for a converted try and although Vandals had two tries chalked off for knock-ons, the score remained 12-7 at the break.

Burley was fastest out the blocks in the second half as they moved into a 14-12 lead, but the Vandals immediately fought back with impressive forward play.

Callum Gerrard and Chris Metcalfe both crossed for their first tries for the club, with some impressive yards made by former skipper Dave French setting them up. Simms added one conversion.

At late flourish from Burley saw them close the gap with a late converted try but the Vandals saw out the final two minutes to clinch the win.

Ultimately, the Vandals’ impressive defensive display through out the 80 minutes won them the game.