TS4 Longlands and Easterside bloggers

Tell your tale about Middlesbrough libraries

2012-01-17T10:48:40Z

TO celebrate National Libraries Day Middlesbrough Council wants to know what your library means to you in no more than 500 words.

Hand your entry, with your contact details, into your local branch or email Jessica_Christie@middlesbrough.gov.uk by Monday, January 30. You and a friend could become a library VIP for the day, which would include a tour of Central Library, Middlesbrough, access to the non-public historic collection, tea, cake and a goody bag.

Match of the Day 2

2011-11-01T15:47:54Z

Special Educational Needs schools and Pupil Referral Units from Middlesbrough, Hartlepool, North Yorkshire, Stockton and Redcar and Cleveland recently competed in the second Annual football tournament organised by Middlesbrough Supply Teaching Agency Vision for Education. The event took place at The Southlands Centre in Middlesbrough.

The eight teams contested in a mini Europa league style competition, with all teams playing each other and resulting in the top two teams having a final play off for the Vision Cup. The final was closely contested by Hartlepool PRU and Eston Centre EOTAS, with Hartlepool PRU eventually coming out as worthy winners. The proud Hartlepool team received a Nintendo Wii for the unit. Each team involved displayed excellent sportsmanship and all were given their own individual coloured strip from Vision for Education to compete in the tournament.

Chris Martin of Vision for Education said: " Vision is delighted to give something back to the alternative education provision of Middlesbrough. We work closely with many schools across the area, giving back to schools is part of our ethos, but the opportunity of inputting here whilst hopefully increasing pupil esteem and self worth was an opportunity we were delighted to embrace"

Wish is back for 2011!

2011-09-14T07:57:48Z

Wish is back for 2011! We are once again giving not for the profit organisations in Teesside the chance to receive a share of an amazing £50,000. Plus if you register by midnight, this Friday, September 16 you will automatically be entered into a prize draw to win a fundraising night at Sporting Lodge. Log on to www.gazettelive.co.uk/wish to register now. Terms & conditions apply.

Acklam Rugby Club August Newsletter

2011-07-26T14:25:05Z

NEWSLETTER AUGUST 2011

• The new season is on the horizon and everyone at the club is looking forward to this with confidence which is how it should be. However, it is worth looking back and reminding ourselves how successful last season was throughout the club. The 1st team gained promotion to Durham and Northumberland Division 1 having lost only one game all season and scoring in excess of 1000 points. Congratulations to Lee Richardson and Tom McGrath with their coaching methods and captain Andy Bailes and his team for playing such attractive and effective rugby. The Talbots and the Hustlers played in their respective Tees Valley leagues for the first time and they both exceeded expectations. The Talbots finished runners up in the Merit League and won the North Yorkshire Merit league. Congratulations to Steve Elsworth and Mark Collins for their efforts in ensuring the success of the Talbots and Hustlers. Thank-you to the club's ex President Mike McLoughlin, who successfully manages the Tees Valley leagues. The junior teams enjoyed their season which was badly affected at times by the severe weather. The highlight was the Under 16's winning the Yorkshire Bowl which is no mean feat considering how competitive Yorkshire County is.

• Everyone visiting the club this coming season will be impressed by the improvement work that has been carried out during the close season. The drainage work (£100,000) is now complete and the pitches will be ready for the new season. There is a new extended path installed and a new barrier for the top pitch.There is even tables and chairs to sit out on when the weather allows. We can now boast that we have a fifth pitch behind the clubhouse which will be designated for the mini/midis games. Congratulations to the volunteers who have worked at the club over the summer months, especially Mark Collins, Phil and Dan Burns.

• The club is expecting to be able to put out a fourth team at senior level on occasions during the forthcoming season. The junior section should have teams at Under 18's, U17's, U16's, U15's, U14's, U12's, U11's and U8's. This is no mean achievement so we are always seeking volunteers to coach and manage these teams. The club's success is dependant on a successful junior section. I am looking to start an Under 10's this season if we can get a team coach.

• Reminder that the club can be booked for functions at no cost, so if you have a birthday, funeral, works night etc. please see Sheila behind the bar. It is the bar takings that the club depends upon and every penny goes back into the playing side.

• Acklam Wheelers are doing their annual C2C charity ride on the 22nd July. This year the money raised will go towards the Meningitis Trust, last year we raised £3,000 for the Heart Foundation. This is the sixth consecutive year that we have completed the various C2C rides and we have raised already a total of over £15,000 for various charities. This year's ride starts at Morcambe and finishes at Saltburn via Pately Bridge and York which is 180 miles in three days. I now can add that we have completed the ride and the general census of opinion is that it was the hardest ride so far. No doubt we will hit the £20,000 mark.

• Look out for the new ultra modern clubhouse lighting system which will be installed in the next week or two.

• The new road to Trinity College will be under construction very soon which will mean better and legal access to the club from Ladgate Lane. We intend to ensure good signage is installed at Ladgate Lane so that the general public knows where we are.

• Subs, Subs, Subs......ensure that all members pay their dues at the beginning of the season, the club needs the money to pay for the improvements and thereby enhancing your experience.

• We all should be looking for sponsorship opportunities. Andy Dunn has written a great letter explaining the various options for sponsorship. Let's all get it 'round businesses and people we know. Paul Appleton who will coach next season's Under 12's has drawn in sponsorship from eight different companies that he deals with; Armstrong Integrated Ltd. being one of these companies has sponsored the Under 18's new strip. Parent John Green who runs the Huntsman in Hemlington is sponsoring a new strip for the Under 11's.

• The Year 7 tournaments that are held on Saturday mornings at our club which are essential for us starting our new Under 12's team each season will be organized by myself as stalwart John Haddon is retiring from the role. I will need as many volunteers from the club to help me as possible, the dates are Sept. 24th, Oct.15th, Nov. 5th and Nov. 26th, meet 9.30 a.m. starts at 10 a.m. until 11.30 a.m.

• Referees are in short supply, we will need them for both Saturday and Sunday games as the Society will not be able to meet the demand. Ideally if we have a pool of volunteers, then we could rotate when Society referees are not available. I could organize a referee course which last 3 hours at the club if sufficient interest is shown.

Middlesbrough Literary Festival 2011

2011-05-25T09:22:12Z

Acklam junior results Sunday November 14

2010-11-16T09:19:52Z

Acklam Under 16's 19 points v Mowden Park 12 points

This was a disappointing game in which Acklam failed to find any rhythm to their play. The pitch was heavy which didn't help with regards to the number of mistakes that were being made. It was 30 minutes before the first score when Mowden scored their first try. On the 35 minute mark Acklam made a move which split the defence and Josh Abraham scored his first try of the day. Half-time 5-5.
Acklam started very bright in the second half and went into a 19-5 lead, Josh Abraham getting his hat-trick. The game then became even and some weak tackling by Acklam allowed Mowden to score their second try.

Mowden Park Under 15's 32 points v Acklam 5 points

With 5 players out due to injury or ill health it did not start as it should have done.
The game started as it finished with our forwards against Mowden's backs.
Mowden scored first with a great run from a free kick and well converted. Dom Ayre ran thru and scored a perfect try however was judged to be held up.
However once the Acklam forwards got to work we drove well
from a ruck, Sam Macdonad broke thru the Mowden line scoring his first try. Acklam made too many unforced errors which Mowden capitalised on.
Dom Ayre played outstanding as did Benson. Frustration along with inexperience was our disadvantage however the players today never gave in and showed good Acklam spirit.

Acklam Under 14's 0 points v Otley 19 points

Acklam put up a brave display as they went out of the Yorkshire Shield. Otley have only lost one game all season so Acklam should take something from this game when playing such good opposition.

Middlesbrough u13s 50 Acklam u13s 0

Acklam started well and for the the first five minutes pressurised Boro, keeping them in their own half
However a break by the big Boro right wing from well inside his own half combined with poor cover by Acklam resulted
in Boro taking the lead
This was quickly followed by two similar tries from distance by the same player and Acklam after their promising start
found themselves 21 points down
The three quick tries seemed to demoralise the less experienced Acklam side and as Boro took control of the game
the good rugby which they had played in the early stage was forgotten
Boro scored steadily as Acklam's tackling deteriorated
Boro eased off in the last ten minutes and Acklam came back into the game only for a consolation try in the corner
to be disallowed for a prior line transgression
In a game in which Acklam were nearly always on the back foot No8 Lewis Steele in his attempts to get the team going forward
and Ryan Naylor No7 who was 100 percent committed throughout the game set an example for others to follow

18th Annual Lealholm to Marske walk for the local Take Heart Support Group

2010-11-10T09:14:38Z

Sent in by Take Heart Support Group

The walk attracts walkers of all ages; proving walking is one of the best ways to keep young, fit and your heart healthy, pictured below all the walkers at Lealholm before setting off on the walk.

The oldest 73yrs young, down to the youngest walker, 5 year old William, Barbara's (one of the organisers and back-up team leader) grandson who amazingly walked as far as Birk Brow (roughly half way) ready with plasters in his haversack for anyone with cuts or blisters. WELL DONE William!!

It was an ideal day for the walk, sunny not too hot with a slight breeze. There are various 'drop out points' for those not wishing to complete the full walk and Barbara and her team on hand to keep everyone supplied with drinks and snacks along the way.

It is a beautiful walk starting at the lovely village of Lealholm, across to Danby, then down into Castleton. Next are the wide-open spaces of Stanghow Moor, across the Quakers Causeway, treading the ancient stone slabs, known as the "Monks Trod", built by the monks in the Middle Ages. Over to Birk Brow, then down to Margrove Heritage Centre for a welcome "pit stop". On past the bird sanctuary, maybe catch a glimpse of the rare birds, which migrate here from the Arctic Circle, before coming across the quaint little church at Upleatham (thought to be the smallest in the country). At last, the final stretch down to the coast ending at Marske Cricket Club. A chance to quench your thirst before heading home for a hot bath and well earned rest.

The presentation evening was held on November 2, at the Marske Cricket Club and entertainment was provided by Vocalist Janie St John.

Pictured above Barbara Brown handing over cheque for ÃÂ£1670 to Take Heart Support Group Chairman Malcolm Griffiths.

A raffle on the evening raised a further ÃÂ£100 bringing the total to ÃÂ£1770

Heartfelt thanks from the Take Heart Support Group to: The organisers Steve Askins and Barbara Brown, Barbara's back-up team, which includes her mum, a sprightly 93 years young, her sister Brenda, cousin Jean and friends; who make sure everyone is fed and watered, by supplying the endless drinks and snacks at each 'check point', to keep the walkers going. Jim Lessels and Ray Webb the car back-up team on hand should anyone wish to drop out at any stage. John Rochford, Depot Manager, Arriva North East who generously makes a coach available each year, to transport the walkers from Marske to Lealholm. Jimmy Moore who year after year gives his time freely to drive the bus.
John Rawley, Manager, Marske Cricket Club, for use of the lounge for the Presentation Evening

Last but not least, to all the walkers for giving their time, effort and for their 'endurance' in taking part and to the generosity of all their sponsors.

Like cogs in a wheel everyone has a part to play in making the walk a financial success.
THANK YOU

Visit our website www.takeheartsupportgroupteesside.co.uk

Acklam Junior Results Sunday November 7

2010-11-09T10:38:56Z

Acklam Under 16's 14 points v Wharfdale 20 points

This Yorkshire Plate game turned out to be a very close encounter. Wharfdale took all their early chances whereas Acklam failed to take advantage of their scoring opportunities. At half-time Acklam trailed 0-15 and wondered how they trailed by this score line. In the second half Acklam went further behind when Wharfdale scored their third try and now trailed 0-20 although they had pressurised the Wharfdale defence for long periods.
Michael Lipton kicked through and retrieved the ball which set up Acklam's first try with ten minutes to go. Josh Abraham broke the stubborn Wharfdale defence and scored his second try under the posts. The final stage of the game saw Wharfdale hanging onto their lead as Acklam pressed for the winner.
Disappointing result but their was aspects of Acklam's play which bodes well for the future.

Acklam Under 15's 17 points v West Hartlepool 29 points

Acklam started very well, controlling the forward play, however West have some very fast backs and it didn't take long for West to score from a penalty kick. However our forwards were well up for driving and Keiran Scanlin smashed through with lads hanging off him to score a try. Dom Ayre ran through breaking tackles to score our second try.
Just after this it all went wrong conceding 12 free kicks and gifting the ball to West making it very easy for West to put us on the back foot.
Second half saw Acklam suffer from fitness hence the free kicks,
however Rob Maxwell scored a great try running down the line.
Final score Acklam 17 v West 29...it still is a huge improvement.

Westhartlepool Under 14's 26 points v Acklam 12 points

Although the under 14s were beaten this week this was a much welcome return to form. In a very competitive game against a strong West Hartlepool team who have only lost one fixture all season they held there own with some strong defence and hard work by the pack.

All eighteen squad players played their part with a special mention to double try scorer Ben Cope. Hartlepool did take a convincing lead into the half time break (26-0) but where made to work hard for their points and Acklam with a bit more luck could have had a couple of tries of their own. In defence Tom Dawson made some crucial tackles and big ball carries by Tom Fixter in the second row and Tom Nicholson ensured Acklam kept their confidence for the second half.

Acklam gave the home side a shock in the second half and as the West coach said after the game the forwards "mullered" there counterparts. Connor Haslock at blindside combined well with his fellow backrow players Cormac Farrell and Ben Cope and with good offloads ensured Acklam took the second half honours by 12 to nil. Unfortunately time did not allow for Acklam to close the gap sufficiently but all credit must go to the whole squad for such a great effort, well done to all.

Acklam U13s 32 points v West Hartlepool U13s 10 points

Acklam started slowly and West scored an early try after strong rucking and good inter passing.
This spurred Acklam into greater effort and apart from the securing of the loose ball they began to dominate all aspects of the game.
Strong tackling by the back row and centres upset West's rhythm and they had no answer to the surging runs of Lewis Steel who scored three first half tries and Acklam turned round 15-3 in the lead.
Acklam continued to dominate in the second half with strong runs and good support putting West under constant pressure, the tackling was impressive and West were given little scope.
Acklam added further tries from Nick Moore, Dom Hammond and Lewis Steel.
Acklam relaxed at the death and allowed West to score after a period of impressive mauling by the home side.
An excellent team performance with the outstanding Lewis Steel ably supported by back row colleagues Ryan Naylor and Dom Hammond with a very impressive debut by fullback Curtis Rathbone, who covered across well in defence and had a number of surging forward runs.

Acklam's Under 12's and 10's were training to-day.

Acklam junior results Sunday October 31

2010-11-03T08:41:38Z

Acklam Under 16's 52 points v Whitby 5 points

Acklam proved to be too strong for Whitby this morning. Acklam were trying to play to their new pattern of play which meant they got confused at times, however there was signs of improvement as some of the coaching begins to sink in.
In the first half, tries came from Lewis Catterick, Josh Abraham scored two, Tom Driscoll and Richard Martin. Half time score 26-5.
In the second half further tries came from Alex McKay, Josh Cook and Lewis Catterick scored his second try.
Lineout play was probably the best so far since the team has been allowed to lift. The scrum was strong, considering we had to play uncontested scrums in France as per the French laws which dictate uncontested scrums up to Under 18's.
Man of the match was Tom Driscoll and the 'baguette' man of the match was Matty McClure. Ricky Scott converted 6 out of 8 conversions.

Acklam Under 15's 22 points v Guisborough 8 points

Four years ago we were beat by more than 60 points off Guisborough but to-day the boot was well and truly on the other foot. Acklam's rugby was strong and aggressive and very dominant.
From a scrum Benson broke the Guisborough line scoring our first try. Guisborough replied straight afterwards by scoring a try. However Acklam did not let up, and were winning most rucks and mauls. Dra Waddington smashed thru scoring the second try. Then from kick off Benson ran the length of the pitch only to be tackled too high and awarded a free kick.
From the scrum Key Scanlin broke away and showed Guisborough a clean pair of heals by scoring a great try.
Dom Air ran through scoring a great try under the posts and then converted the kick.
This was by far the best and strongest team performance I have seen and its
taken 4 years in the making, scrums, rucks and mauls were all fantastic and great to watch. Mention to Hadligh Dee running the length of the pitch to put us in try scoring position. Beating Guisborough was a big feather in our hat as they are a very good outfit. Well done lads, fantastic result.

Guisborough Under 14's 42 points v Acklam 17 points

A disappointing performance by Acklam but they rallied in the second half and scored 17 points.

Acklam Under 13's 17 points v Guisborough 29 points

Last season when the two teams met Acklam was newly formed and they were beaten by 60 points so this game indicates the good progress the team is making.

ACKLAM Under 12's 7 points v BILLINGHAM 43 points

AS A NEWLY FORMED TEAM ACKLAM HAVE RELIED ON USING THEIR POWERFUL FORWARDS TO DOMINATE THE OTHER SIDE BUT TODAY WE CAME UNSTUCK AGAINST A VERY COMPETENT BUNCH OF LADS ALSO WITH A BIG SET OF FORWARDS WHO DOMINATED FROM THE OUTSET. ACKLAM WERE A BIT OVERWHELMED IN THE FIRST HALF AS IT HASN'T BEEN TO OFTEN THIS SEASON THEY HAVE BEEN MATCH FOR STRENGTH AND POWER BUT BILLINGHAM REALLY DROVE HARD AND IT SHOWED ON THE SCOREBOARD GOING IN 27 POINTS TO NIL FOR THE BREAK. THE SECOND HALF ACKLAM STARTED TO SHOW THE PROMISE THAT THE COACHES AND PARENTS KNOW THAT THEY HAVE AND PUT THE FIRST POINTS ON THE BOARD IN THE SECOND HALF FROM A STRONG RUN FROM MIKEY TAYLOR GOING FROM HIS OWN HALF BREAKING THROUGH AT LEAST 5 TACKLE AND GOING OVER FOR THE TRY THIS WAS COMPETENTLY CONVERTED BY FULL BACK C J MCLEOD. BILLINGHAM HAVE A GREAT COACHING TEAM AND IT FILLED ME WITH PRIDE WHEN THEIR MANAGER SPOKE TO ME AFTER THE GAME AND CONGRATULATED THE LADS FOR NEVER LETTING THE SCORE LINE AFFECT THEIR ATTITUDE TOWARDS THE MATCH AND COMPLIMENTED SOME OF THE TACKLING TECHNIQUE OF WINGER STEVEN DAVIES AND HOOKER JOE WARRIOR AND THE DETERMINATION OF JOSH CURRY WHO PLAYED OUT OF HIS SKIN WITH AT LEAST 10 GOOD BALL CARRIES AND NEVER TOOK A BACKWARDS STEP. EVERYONE WAS IN AGREEMENT THAT ACKLAMS MAN OF THE MATCH WAS WINGER JAKE GREET FOR PUTTING HIS BODY ON THE LINE NUMEROUS TIME WITH SOME FANTASTIC TACKLES ON LADS WAY LARGER THAN HE IS WHICH CONTRIBUTE IN KEEPING THE SCORE LINE FROM BEEN ABOUT ANOTHER 30 POINTS FOR BILLINGHAM.
ACKLAM NEED TO COME AWAY FROM THIS WITH THE POSITIVES WHICH ARE THAT THE LADS HAVE A BRILLIANT ATTITUDE TOWARDS THE GAME REGARDLESS OF THE SCORE AND SOME OF THE TACKLING WAS JUST AS GOOD AS ANYONE IN ANY LEVEL.

Acklam junior results Sunday October 24

2010-10-25T13:44:40Z

ACKLAM JUNIOR RESULTS SUNDAY 24 OCTOBER

Acklam Under 16's and 14's

No games to-day.

Acklam Under 15's 34 points V Stockton Under 15's 3 points

Weather was cold and bright and both teams were down to their bear minimum. The game started with Acklam on the back foot with a few Acklam players missing.
However we switched on as a unit and our forwards were too strong and powerful.
Jake Parkin from the a scrum ran thru and scored a great try who by the way played his best game so far. Acklam were on fire, Rob Hatfield scored next when he supported Rob Carabine who made the initial break.Benson was on fire running thru Stockton to score a great try. Second half came and Acklam started to relax a little.The Stockton lads who never gave up started pressing hard forcing Acklam to make many mistakes. However from a scrum Key Scanlin broke thru the Stockton backs to score a great try .
The best was yet to come when Benson from his own 20 yard decided to take everyone on running thru at least 5 tackles and scored a great try. To make things better he did it again 5 minutes later. Two conversions by Rob Carabine and Hadligh Dee sealed the win. Stockton scored 3 points from a penalty kick.

Acklam Under 13's 0 points v Doncaster Under 13's 40 points

This was the first round of the Yorkshire Cup and Acklam came up against a strong and experienced team who had been playing since they were minis. Acklam players are made up of lads who either started to play a year ago or the players who have just started this season. This was treated as a learning match to show the lads want they should be aiming to aspire to. Acklam lads never gave up, so well done to all the players.

REDCAR Under 12's - 0 ACKLAM Under 12's - 29

THIS WAS A FANTASTIC RESULT FOR ACKLAM AFTER THEIR DEFEATS LAST WEEK,THE HEAD COACH BARRY BASTOW MUST HAVE HAD THE LADS WORKING HARD TO RECTIFY THE LITTLE PROBLEMS WE HAD . THE FIRST 5 MINUTES OF THE GAME WAS EVENLY CONTESTED, BOTH SIDES STRUGGLING WITH THE HEAVY RAIN. THEN THE BIG FORWARD UNIT STARTED TO DOMINATE MAKING GOOD YARDAGE THEN MOVED THE BALL OUT WIDE FOR THE FIRST TRY SCORED BY STEVEN DAVIES. THE BIG LADS CONTINUED TO PRESSURE THEIR OPPOSITION TO SCORE A SECOND TRY BY FRONT ROW JASON ROBERTS JUST BEFORE HALF TIME. THE SECOND HALF WAS PRETTY MUCH THE SAME, AGGRESSIVE FORWARD PLAY THEN A GREAT DARTING RUN FROM FULLBACK CJ McLeod TO GO OVER FOR ANOTHER TRY AND GOING ON TO KICK OVER 2 CONVERSIONS TO CONTRIBUTE 9 POINTS TO THE TOTAL SCORE. I WOULD JUST LIKE TO SAY A BIG WELL DONE TO ALL THE TEAM ESPECIALLY THE FORWARDS WITH SOME REALLY POWERFUL RUNS FROM (yet again) JOE WARRIOR AND HARRY CAREY AND WINGER JOE FORCETT . THE MAN OF THE MATCH WAS A YOUNG LAD WHO HAD HIS FIRST GAME FOR ACKLAM TODAY, HIS NAME IS MIKEY TAYLOR AND RECEIVED THE HONOUR FOR CONTRIBUTING 2 TRIES HAVING BROKEN THROUGH SEVERAL TACKLES. ALL IN ALL THIS WAS A BRILLIANT TEAM PERFORMANCE SHOWING THAT IF THE FORWARDS LAY A GOOD FOUNDATION AND TACKLE AGGRESSIVELY THEY WEAR DOWN THE OPPOSITION AND PREVENT THEM SCORING OPPORTUNITIES.

Acklam Junior results Sunday October 17

2010-10-18T09:28:34Z

Acklam Under 15's 17 points v Driffield 17 points (Yorkshire Cup)

The weather was sunny and dry and Driffield came down well prepared. I must admit before this game started on hearing the name Driffield, Plate winner last season, I knew we were in for a hard game. However Acklam were up for a tough game of rugby and when Driffield scored a try in the first 5 minutes, the lads head stayed up and got angry. It seemed Driffield had the pace in the backs however our forwards were much stronger and from a big drive Benson broke off breaking the Driffield line and scored under the posts, converted by Rob Carabine. Then from a maul Key Scanlin who played strong today smashed through to score a very good try .
Half time and Driffield figured they had to use their backs, however they struggled as our forwards were not letting them get the ball. On one long run from the Driffield number 14, he was tackled by John Longstaff at full back.
Driffield did get a try, backs running through which levelled the game up.
As our backs were getting the ball they were feeding to our forwards who were rucking and mauling all the way up the pitch, from a third ruck Dra Waddington smashed through the entire Driffield line to score a great try. The second half we upped our game however 2 minutes to go Driffied got a free kick and ran through. Hence the game was a draw, possibly the best game we have played. Driffield came with the intention of playing rugby and we did not disappoint them, seems unfair, however we need to build on this. We need to build on this performance by taking confidence into our next game.
Well done to all the lads!

Acklam Under 14's 60 points v Thirsk 5 points

The under 14s had a welcome return to form this weekend after several hard games in previous weeks. In a home game against Thirsk they competed well and showed some strong running and physical presence to overpower their opponents.

Although the score line reflected a one sided game Thirsk stuck to their task well and it was ten minutes before the home side managed to break the defence when Tom Fixter used his power to break the gain line and to cross the line. Thirsk however came back with a try of their own immediately after the restart which was disappointing after Acklam had seemed to improved their defence.

Acklam did regroup and after Ben Cope came just short of the line with a drive Tom Nicholson picked up the loose ball and the reward of the second try. The home side continued to dominate and with second row Alex Scorer playing as a crash ball centre it was outside centre Tom Dawson who benefited with his first of three tries.

Further tries where added by Joe Crocket, Bradley Gator, Alex Scorer and Connor Haslock with Tom Fixter also getting his second try of the game. A good all round performance with a special mention to several new players who have been addedto the squad and showed their potential.

Acklam Under 13's v Barnard Castle

Acklam lost this game by 5 tries to 2 tries. Acklam showed plenty of potential but Barnard Castle team is made up from the local boarding school and their experience showed. The difference between the two teams was their uderstanding of rucking the ball

RICHMOND under 12s 12 points v ACKLAM 0 points

THIRSK under 12s 14 points v ACKLAM 0 points

Both of these score lines do not reflect on how well the newly formed Acklam under 12s played .Both games were a very close affair and the times the other teams scored where the only few times they broke through a very solid and aggressive Acklam defence. Acklam had about 70% of possession in these game but due to a lack of game knowledge were running sideway and not forward but this is an easy problem to rectify . Acklam had a fantastic turnout of 15 lads this is brilliant for so early in the season the problem was 10 of them were forwards and on this point I would like to give a well done to OWEN KIDD who changed position from loose head prop to number 8 and made some strong driving runs. As mentioned we did not score but our defence were solid with some devastating powerful tackles coming from CJ McLEOD, JOE WARRIOR, BRANDON JORDEN, HARRY CAREY and topped off with the player of the day JOSH CROCKET saving a try with an unexpected diving ankle tap to bring the Thrisk player to the ground. All the coaches were in agreement that Acklam's man of the matches was JAKE HASLOCK for his play around the ruck the referee commented he hill be a good flanker when we step up to 8 man scrums next season.

Acklam juniors match reports Sunday September 26

2010-09-27T15:33:18Z

Acklam Under 16's 45 points v Durham City 38 points

The game kicked off with a strong cross wind which made play difficult. Acklam's first ten minutes was text book rugby which had real structure to their game. However against the run of play, Acklam found themselves down by 10 points due to the pace of the City's wingers.

Acklam came back strong and Josh Abraham opened the scoring for Acklam. What happened next was to be the norm for the game, Acklam scoring followed by quick replies from City. This was the result of poor tackling by Acklam who were too easily deceived by swerving runners. Josh Abraham scored again before half time but Acklam trailed 14-17 at half-time.

In the second half the tread continued with City scoring three more tries but Acklam scored five tries as the Acklam pack started to dominate in the tight play. Josh Abraham scored a magnificent four tries, Ashley Gibson scored with a very determined run, Danny Moss burst through the defence and ran in for a try from 20 meters and finally Michael Lipton got the winning try on the death. Ricky Scott converted five of the seven tries.

Matthew Dunning was outstanding at scrum -half throughout the game. Lewis Catterick sparked the rival with some very determined runs which got Acklam on the front foot. Acklam trailed all during the game but their sheer determination and will to win got them to the line first. Well done to debutant Michael McClure who has joined the club. Well done lads but do not make a habit of this, not good for the health of coaches and parents.

Acklam Under 15's v Durham City

Today we played a very strong team who are County Cup winners.

Sadly we had a lot of players missing and we struggled with pace at the back and it showed as soon as Durham wingers started to run. Things and luck just weren't going our way, our tackling today was no were near as good as last week, however when we got the ball our forwards did what they do best and drove well.

Tries from Benson, Dom Air and a first try for Andy Smith kept us in the game, however the pace of the Durham backs and us having no reserves took over giving Durham City a well earned victory.

Acklam Under 13's 10 points v Durham City 27 points

Acklam travelled to Durham to meet a strong Durham City side who had played together since the mini stage.

Nevertheless the less experienced Acklam team matched Durham in all phases for the first fifteen minutes only loosing out in securing loose ball.

In the second period of the first half Durham ran in one well worked try and two tries from distance through strong running individuals and Acklam turned round 17-0 down at half time.

Acklam came back strongly in the second half and were stopped just short of the line on two occasions by strong Durham defence,

The pressure resulted in excellent tries from Ryan Heighton and Lewis Steel which brought the score back to 17-10.

Acklam then relaxed and Durham scored two tries in the final two minutes.

The final score of 27-10 was not a fair reflection of Acklams contribution to a pretty even game.

Acklams man of the match was Tom Briggs who had some strong runs,was brought down twice just short of the line and put in some excellent cover tackles.

This was a good test for the Acklam side who are improving week by week whilst turning up in numbers for mid week training.

The lads are looking forward to the return fixture later in the season.

Acklam juniors match reports Sunday September 19

2010-09-20T15:07:40Z

Acklam Under 16's 12 v Ripon 26

Acklam Under 16's hosted Ripon who are a strong team with several representative players in the team. Acklam were caught napping in the opening minute when the Ripon fly half burst through to score under the posts. Acklam hit back from a lineout after 7 minutes, good play by Danny Moss allowed Ashley Gibson to score a try. The game was being played with width and Ripon exploited the overlap out wide to score their second try. Acklam were making some unnecessary mistakes which meant Ripon were able to keep the upper hand, they scored their third try before the break. H.T. score 19-7.
The second half, Acklam scrummaging improved and they won some good lineout ball. Acklam went down to 14 men for ten minutes after 45 minutes and Ripon took advantage with their fourth try of the game. Acklam started to pressurise the Ripon defence and Michael Lipton scored a try in the corner. The second half was even with only one score each.

Acklam Under 15's 7 v Harrogate Development 21

On a breezy drizzly day Acklam started the game against Harrogate Devopment with 4 key players missing, Danial Phillips, Key Scanlin, Haddligh Dee and Jorden Usher.
However the team stepped up to the mark. Harrogate is a fast outfit, but Acklam held them out until a minute before half time. However Acklam's tackling and defence was strong as the Harrogate team were pressuring for 15 minutes.
Second half and Harrogate scored another try from an Acklam missed pass gifting the try.
The game in the second half was very messy and aggressive with both teams getting frustrated, however from a huge drive from Acklam, Dom Air broke and passed the ball to John Longstaff who ran through the Harrogate line to score his first try. Acklam were under sustained pressure on our own goal line which we absorbed for some time with big tackles from the Acklam lads. To-day was a massive display of defence with key players missing the lads stepped up to a very strong Harrogate team. Injuries to Sam Macdolald and Dra Wadding didn't go help our game.

Harrogate Under 14's 5 v Acklam 22
Huddersfield Under 14's 22 v Acklam 5

The under 14s travelled with 13 men to Harrogate this week to take on the home sides development team and Huddersfield in two 40 minute games. In the first game against Harrogate the team played some of the best rugby seen in long time and the forwards working on drives close to the base of the ruck won quality ball for the backs. Huddersfield had kindly leant two strong players who complemented the work of the Acklam team. Connor Haslock at 8 had a great game as did both second rows Alex Scorer and Patrick McCann. The backs inpressed with some flowing moves and good handling and tries came from Tom Dawson and Adam Harrison with both Huddersfield players getting on the score sheet to the delight of there own team who had been well beaten by Harrogate in the first game. Final score Harrogate 5, Acklam 22.
The second game however was a different story with the players running out of steam and some sloppy defence the team lost it shape conceding several early tries. However Acklam did battle back with there own score after some good forward drives and a neat passing interchange. All in all it was a splendid performance and shows how much the team has developed in the last twelve months. Final score Huddersfield 22 Acklam 5.

Acklam U13s 66 Seaton U13s 0

Acklam started strongly and scored early tries through Lewis Steele and Ryan Naylor
The players had trained hard during the close season and this showed against a Seaton side who were playing their first game without the benefits of pre season training, Acklam were running, tackling, passing and securing the ball much better than the Seaton side.
Furthe tries by Lewis Steele (2) and Tom Briggs completed the first half scoring

Acklam dominated the second half and scored further tries through Lewis Steele (2) Callum Fixter, Ryan Naylor, Jake Whitfield and Tom Briggs.

Lewis Steele was man of the match with Ryan Naylor playing only his second game showing strong potential. Special mention to Jordan Conya who stepped in as hooker and had an excellent game.

A good all round performance with all players contributing to an encouraging team display.

Acklam Under 16's 27 points v Hartlepool Rovers 12 points

2010-09-15T10:04:20Z

Acklam hosted the game under the club's floodlights which always adds to the atmosphere when local opponents play each other.

The evening was mild and clear but there was a blustery wind which always affects a game of rugby.

The opening contest was evenly matched but it became clear that if Acklam played an open game they looked more likely to score.

Acklam opened the scoring when Josh Abraham scored when he was allowed too much space.

Rovers pulled back a try to level the scores at 5-5. Ricky Scott at fly half was distributing the ball well and Josh Abraham scored two further tries to make his hat trick.

H.T. score 17-5.

The second half was keenly contested with Rovers showing plenty of determination but the Acklam defence was equal to what Rovers could muster.

Josh Cook scored a good try which showed off his pace.

Rovers scored a try which was through a lapse in concentration by the Acklam defence, when several tackles were missed.

Ricky Scott had the last say when he added 3 points in front of the posts towards the end of the game.

Obviously Josh Abraham had an excellent game with his three tries, but Matthew Dunning at scrum half had an outstanding game.

Acklam forwards to every man was very strong and the backs showed a great deal of promise.

Well done lads to the victory as this was a strong Rovers team.

Acklam junior match reports September 5, 2010

2010-09-08T09:06:30Z

Hartlepool Under 16's 10 points v Acklam Under 16's 41 points

Acklam visited Hartlepool for their first game of the season. Within 5 minutes Jordan Weston (prop) on his debut game scored the opening try and he continued to make his presence felt as the game progressed. Hartlepool competed well in the first 15 minutes and they rewarded themselves with a try. In the last ten minutes of the first half Acklam scored two tries, first Lee Lewis (No 8) and then Ricky Scott (No 10). H.T. score Acklam led 5-19.
At the restart Peter Martin (2/R) scored a good try after some good pressure from the Acklam players. Five minutes later Lee Lewis deservedly scored his second try. Acklam were showing the signs of being rusty but they were always in well control of the game. Ashley Cooper (No 6) and Josh Cook (O/C) scored further tries. Ricky Scott converted 3 of the 7 tries.
Opposition coach and players voted Peter Martin player of the game, although he is sporting a beard. Acklam should have had several other tries, Alex McKay was unlucky as was Michael Lipton when advantage was not played and the line was begging. Well done lads!

Billingham Under 14's 17 points v Acklam Under 14's 31 points

Acklam under 14s travelled to Billingham this week for there first game of the season and showed that the hard work put in during pre-season had paid off. They where quick of the mark as Tom Dawson opened the scoring when out sprinting the home defence on the blind side to round several players and touch down under the post. This lead to an easy conversion by Joe Crocket.
The early try settled any pre-season nerves and the forwards through good work by Alex Scorer, Patrick McCann and Connor Haslock started to dominate the loose play and this lead to a further try when Tom Fixter burst through the oppositions defence to score under the post again and with Joe Crocket adding the conversion to make the score 14 points to nil.
Billingham did start to find their feet and got back into the game after sloppy ball retention lead to turnover ball and a break away converted try. Billingham continued to push hard but good defensive work by Adam Harrison and Alex Hood ensured the Acklam lead was maintained. Acklams forwards continued to win good ball for their backs and once again this good ball was turned into points when Tom Dawson once again broke clear to score his second try. Half Time Acklam 19 Billingham 7.

It was agreed as the second half got under way that the next score would be decisive and although Billingham looked as if they where going to get the break a last ditch tackle by full back Bradley Gator lead to loose ball being picked up by Acklam and after several good interchanges it was Tom Fixter that benefited and increased Acklams Lead. Although Acklam had scored this try Billingham never gave up and only some excellent tackling by man of the match Adam Harrison kept them at bay. Eventually however a mistake from a long kick down field by Billingham brought them back into the game when they scored a further try in the right hand corner. This seemed to give the Billingham team increased confidence however Acklams Sam Warrior and his fellow forwards continued to work hard and when fly half Andrew Stewart released centre Jack Grabham he jinked he way over the line to finish off a nice move. With the match coming to an end Billingham scored a well deserved consolation try but it was Acklams day as they finished victors by 31 points to 17.