MATCH REPORT // Rochdale Mayfield ARLFC 12 v 22 Newcastle Thunder

Thunder’s Challenge Cup run continues with away victory at Rochdale Mayfield ALRFC.

Newcastle Thunder travelled to Mayfield Sports Centre as they looked to continue their Challenge Cup run.

It wouldn’t be the best of starts for the Championship side as they went a score down after just seven minutes.

Community side Rochdale Mayfield ARLFC got off to a dream start gaining possession on half-way before some quick hands opened the field for Metcalfe to cross. With the conversion from Devlin successful, the hosts led 6-0.

A lead that would only last five minutes as Thunder would score their first of the afternoon through winger Jack Johnson, neatly assisted by stand off Alex Donaghy. Jack Miller converted, and the tie was now level after 11 minutes.

Moments later Thunder would take the lead. Following a mistake by Rochdale on the restart, Thunder took advantage as Donaghy, and loose forward Connor Bailey combined before playing in winger Alex Young to dot down. The conversion unsuccessful this time leaving the tie at 6-10 in favour of Thunder.

Thunder now piling on the pressure built a stronger lead after 20 minutes. Prop Ted Chapelhow barrelling over from close range after Bailey’s first attempt was held up. Miller added the extras and Thunder now had a comfortable 10-point lead midway through the first half, with the score now standing at 6-16.

Rochdale would not go down without a fight and came close to adding their second of the afternoon on 26 minutes. The community side had crossed to score but were pulled back for double-movement and Thunder were able to clear their lines.

Thunder would add their fourth of the afternoon just before the half-time break. After a great carry from Mitch Clark in the build-up allowed Hull KR loanee Connor Moore to dive over on a crash ball. Miller adding the extras took the score to 6-22 and this would be the final play of the half.

Thunder with the lead but the hosts giving a great account for themselves and bringing the game to the Championship outfit.

Little action took place in the second half with no score until the 76^th minute. The hosts crossed through Parr in the corner for their second of the afternoon after a prolonged period on the front foot. The conversion again successful from Delvin, left the score 12-22 and the amateur side were winning the second half 6-0.

This would be the final say of the Challenge Cup clash, Thunder taking the win and progressing to the next round but were pushed by a spirited Rochdale Mayfield ARLFC side, who certainly showed their worth. A great contest between the two sides.

Thunder will travel to the winners of York City Knights v Sheffield Eagles in the fifth round with the tie set to take place over the weekend of 22 and 23 April.

NEWCASTLE THUNDER SCORERS

TRIES: Jack Johnson, Alex Young, Ted Chapelhow, Connor Moore.

GOALS: Jack Miller 3.

ROCHDALE MAYFIELD ARLFC SCORERS

TRIES: Metcalfe, Parr.

GOALS: Delvin 2.