1st XV
L 30-41
League
07-09-2024
Bradford Salem
By Charlie Hopper
Matty Jones’ side found themselves under pressure in the early exchanges and crossed over inside the first 15 minutes. New recruit Ollie Carroll, who joined from Moortown, was called into action, kicking three consecutive penalties to give the home side a narrow 9-7 lead.
Salem then took full control of the game, with 3 unanswered tries to give them a commanding 24-9 lead at the break. Despite being down to 14 men straight after half-time, the visitors further extended their advantage to 31-9 before Jordan Holloway scored his sides first try of the season. Salem responded with their sixth try of the match before a penalty try and a try from Drew Govier reduced the deficit to 30-38 as the game headed into the final minutes. The final action of the first 80 minutes of the new season, came in the form of a penalty for the visitors, who further extended their lead to 41-30 at the final whistle.
Matty Jones’ side make the trip to The Gannock next weekend, to take on a Malton & Norton side who were beaten 43-29 at Rochdale.