After a quick dash up the A1 to rescue Leo from car troubles, we got to Gateshead with team of 12 players. Unfortunately the Gateshead players were unwilling to make up our numbers and we played 12 a side which was a shame as we've been really strong in our pack and this meant we were reduced to playing uncontested scrums.

But we adapted in true Bishop style with Nicky and Riley H stepping up into the front row, and the two Jacobs playing second row.
Gateshead are a strong team, but we fought really hard and defended for our lives in the first half. There was some excellent defensive tackles and rucking, and up until half time we were very much in the game. All was even at half time after a lovely chip through by Riley G was finished by Ben to go into the break at 5-5.

We again started strong in the second half, but Gateshead got a grip of the game by being able to rotate their team and keep players fresh.
Our heads went down a little, but you couldn't fault the players commitment. In truth, if a few passes had gone to hand, we may have had a few tries of our own in the second period so the score didn't really reflect the game.

Lots of great tackles put in today, but Finley got player of the match for a superb tackle which stopped a certain try. Finley is a rock at full back, great under a high ball and can attack really well. His confidence in the tackle should grow today after a superb defensive display which typified the effort shown by all players today in the heat.