Tykes show promise in territory-dominant display
Leeds Tykes made a bright start in Greater Manchester. They opened the scoring after 4 minutes. The ball exited the line-out and the team went through the phases, although crabbing sideways rather than forwards. Seremaia Bai Turagabeci charged through a gap and passed to Henry Macnab, who finished in the corner. Sale hit back quickly, though, as Toby Wilson’s powerful break set up former Tyke Harry Davey for the first of his two tries, converted by Joe Green.
The home side grew into the contest and went ahead when Jon O’Donnell crossed after a strong run from Pete Vickers. The Tykes responded with an Edward Crossland penalty, but Sale maintained their momentum. Just before half-time, Davey added his second try, giving the hosts a 24–8 lead at the break.
Leeds came out determined in the second half and spent time camped in front of their opponents’ goal line. There was a loud intake of breath from the travelling supporters as they thought the ball had been knocked on again. However, the referee signalled a try had been scored: Jonny Teague had forced his way over. Crossland added the conversion to reduce the deficit.. At 24–15, the visitors were firmly in the contest and enjoyed territory and pressure, but handling errors in the red zone rather than Sale’s defence kept them out.
The home side’s forwards then took charge, with Alfie Longstaff driving over from close range. Mark Dixon added the conversion from out wide to stretch the advantage. The final word went to O’Donnell, who broke down the wing before releasing Fergus Mulchrone for his side’s sixth try of the afternoon.
Although the final scoreline of 38–15 was comfortably in Sale’s favour, the Tykes can take encouragement from their periods of pressure and attacking intent. The difference on the day was Sale’s ability to recycle quickly, stopping Leeds from getting to the ball and making the most of their opportunities.
After the match, Director of Rugby Pete Seabourne said: “There were a lot of positives to take out of that game. The scoreline doesn’t reflect the hard work the players have put in during the week. I thought for large parts of the game we were competing with Sale. We looked good, we looked organised, we put them under pressure, but it’s just that final little bit.
“The result is disappointing, but the performances are coming and we can see them coming. We can see there’s improvement in the team week on week. As I said, the result is disappointing, but as coaches we’re pleased with the performance. We’ll get there.”
