Newton Aycliffe Rugby Club were left wondering what might have been after losing out to league leaders Seaham in the last 10 minutes of a close game at Moore Lane.  Aycliffe were able to select a strong side with David Judge returning at full-back for the first time in a month.
Aycliffe began the game well and put plenty of pressure on the Seaham line, however the only points came from two Luke Tinkler penalty goals.  Seaham gradually fought their way back into the match, and two defensive lapses by Aycliffe in quick succession saw them concede two tries; one converted.
Aycliffe, despite struggling in the scrum and lineout, managed to get back into Seaham territory but Tinkler unfortunately missed his third penalty attempt.  A penalty awarded to Aycliffe saw the ball quickly fed wide to where James Thacker was able to break though the defensive line, he was tackled short, but Andrew Littlefair was on hand to cross the line for the score.  Tinkler’s conversion had reduced the deficit to two points as the teams turned around with the score 13 – 15.
Early in the second period, another Tinkler penalty gave Aycliffe a narrow lead and they held on to this for much of the half.  With ten minutes to go, Aycliffe’s tiring forwards were subjected to an onslaught by the visitors and finally the line was crossed to give Seaham the lead.
Another try followed soon after to give Seaham a bonus point for 4 tries and to cruelly cost Aycliffe the losing bonus point.  Aycliffe battled back in an effort to reduce the arrears, but they were unable to score.  The game ended 25 – 16 to Seaham and Aycliffe had lost their chance of going to the top of the league.
On 30th November, Aycliffe visit Richmondshire for a 2.15 kick-off.  Newton Aycliffe are sponsored by Boola Clothing Aycliffe and Hayward Home Appliances trading as Serviceforce.  Visit the website at www.pitchero.com/clubs/newtonaycliffe.