MATCH REPORT // Newcastle Thunder 6 v 20 York Knights

Newcastle Thunder fell to a third successive defeat in the Betfred Championship after a 20-6 loss to York Knights at Kingston Park.

The hosts trailed 6-0 at the break following a first half full of errors from both sides, with the conditions ultimately playing their part.

Connor Moore almost opened the fixture’s scoring with an interception and strong charging run in the first few minutes being dragged down just short of the line before York broke the deadlock.

York half-back Will Jubb crossed for the visitors from close range on nine minutes, with Liam Harris adding the extras.

Thunder had plenty of opportunities to draw level but were unable to make the most of their good positions and opportunities.

Connor Bailey went close but was held up over the line on the last tackle of a set and with litte to no further action taking place after, York went in at the break six points up.

Thunder very much in the fight at the start of the second half, responded with an outstanding try on 45 minutes.

Winger Gideon Boafo danced his way through several York defenders to run in from halfway, a score which could easily stake a claim for the league’s try of the season.

Nikau Williams was able to add the extras levelling the score a six-points apiece.

Despite Thunder looking strong and momentum in their favour, York would show their worth and why they’ve recorded six wins from their last seven league games.

The visitors tallied up 14 unanswered points in the last 28 minutes of the game to secure the 20-6 victory.

Myles Harrison grabbing himself a brace, first crossed on 52 minutes. The young scrum half was positioned well to take an offload before diving over from close range. Harris converted and with just under half an hour to play the visitors led 12-6.

The Knights would extend their lead to eight points through the boot of Harris, in the 62^nd minute. The 26-year-old slotted a simple penalty from in front and the score was now 14-6 to the visitors.

Thunder asked questions of the York defence, going close on several occasions. Young centre Mac Walsh had the pick of opportunities but was denied just before the line with less than 10 minutes to go.

Victory was all but sealed when Myles Harrison crossed for his second try of the night, just as the full-time hooter blast on the full-time hooter.

The 20-year-old was able to take control of a pass he nearly knocked on, opening up space in the defence to slide over the try-line, in front of a strong group of travelling away supporters.

Harris maintained his 100% record from the tee for the evening, adding the extras and York would take home the two points in a 20-6 victory on Tyneside. 

NEWCASTLE THUNDER SCORERS

TRIES: Gideon Boafo.

GOALS: Nikau Williams.

YORK KNIGHTS SCORERS

TRIES: William Jubb, Myles Harrison 2.

GOALS: Liam Harris 3.

PENALTY GOALS: Liam Harris.

Attendance: 788.