Report by Theo Bowyer
Port named a rejigged forward line with Matt Blackman, Dom Sheratte and Kieran Hibbs starting. There was a debut for colt Joe Rushton and Dudley Southern came in at full back.
Port were straight out of the blocks and a cracking run from Rory Austin gave the home side an attacking line-out after a high tackle.
Cleckheaton couldn’t cope with Port’s destructive driving maul and a penalty try was awarded for collapsing. The ideal start. 7-0 (try conv).
After such a bright start the next period didn’t follow suit, especially as Port had a man advantage too, following the penalty try. Cleckheaton waltzed through Port’s defence for two tries. 7-12. The away side had an opportunity to extend their lead but Tom Eaton intercepted and released Jack Martin, who ran from the halfway line to record a cheeky score. 14-12 (try conv).
Port were now controlling the game and some lovely passing and offloads were occurring.
Nearing the 30 minute mark, after several phases, Port had a line-out deep into Cleckheaton’s 22. A beautiful line from Rory Austin close in and a comfortable score. 21-12 (try conv).
There were a few unsavoury moments. An all too familiar tale for Cleckheaton who are known for their dark arts and rough approach. A cheap shot on Austin was greeted with boos from the home supporters. The referee gathered the two captains but by that time it had the potential to boil over. Fortunately the rest of the game contained no further incidents.
Joe Rushton was on and a debut to remember for the colt as his ball carrying was first class.
The second half kicked off and it was an opportunity to kick on. Port obliged. A second try of the game for Austin as quick hands meant he was over on the left wing. 28-12 (try conv). Port were home and hosed but also keen to supply the knockout blow.
Rory Atwill is seemingly having a ‘try of the season’ against himself as once again he collected the ball just outside the 22 and sidestepped the opposition dizzy, for another super solo effort. 35-12 (try conv).
Cleckheaton were down and out. Port were in no mood for sympathy and kept their heads to record another two tries.
The first on the hour mark, for Callum Hibbs after more good work from the forwards. The second wasn't dissimilar. Quality ball from the line-out and a reward for an excellent performance by Alex Pantechis. A good way all round to celebrate his call up for Cyprus to play Bulgaria. Special mention for Dudley Southern for his 100% conversation rate.
The stand out player was Rory Austin who was everywhere on the pitch. A simply outstanding performance from the centre. Final Score… Port 49 Cleckheaton 12.
Overall another fantastic win for Port and they take all the momentum into a mouth watering clash against local rivals Macclesfield. You don’t want to miss this one at home this coming Saturday!