Match Report by PAUL LYON

I's travelled to Wharfedale on a bright but cold and windy day in the Dales. Playing with the wind behind in the first half, initially the game was a little static, with Wharfedale looking dominant in the many scrums.

A strong kick downfield from Adam Myers relieved some pressure after 10 minutes of play in the I's half. This led to some quick ball for I's to play with and at the breakdown Wharfedale were caught out and a penalty in front of the posts enabled Charlie to add the first points of the day. 3 to 0 to Ionians.

The two teams were well matched, with strong tackling and rucking seen from both sides. Toms was everywhere at flanker, disrupting Wharfedale ball, and captain James Malcolmson was leading by example with some strong carrying skills. After 18 minutes, following a sweeping Ionians attack, another penalty was given, this time I's decided to run. Marshall broke a tackle which enabled the ball to be passed to Jimbob who broke tackles to score over the line. Kirk converted, 10 to 0.

Another score before halftime showed how I's were now camping in the Wharfedale's half, and while passing through hands, they eventually scored in the corner, Harvey getting the final touch down. Adam kicking the conversion from the touch line 17 to 0 at half time.

The game was still on with Wharfedale having wind advantage in the second half, but I's immediately took the sting out of the game, when from the restart, a fumble by Wharfedale enabled Brad to pick up and scorch through the opposition defence. 22 to 0.

Wharfedale pressed but I's defence was resolute for the next 10 minutes, however, the penalty count was hurting I's and eventually Wharfedale found a way through I's defences. 22 to 5.

supporters from both sides appreciating the effort, commitment and skill from both sides, the injury count rising showing the physical ness of the game.

A chargedown enabled I's to pick the ball up in Wharefdales half, and again Brad ran through the defence to take the score to 27 to 5, though at personal cost of a pulled hamstring.

5 minutes left, both teams remained committed to their respective cause, and fierce defence by I's, stemmed the tide of Wharfedale's continued attacks, and the final whistle was blown and I's were through to the semi final.

Well played both teams, a really competitive and skilful game.

Try Scorers : James Malcolmson, Harvey Kay Gibson, brad Clarkson 2.
Charlie Kirk 2 conversions and 1 penalty
Adam Myers 1 conversion

Men of match
Archie Smeaton
Toms Vicops