A tale of Two Cities

Sunderland still missing a number of key players went behind early after a Durham player out-muscled Sunderland to score 0-5

They were quickly back though, after a brilliant move from the line out was moved first by Matthew Sanderson onto Ben Hutchinson and then on to Fletcher Jackson who sidestepped the first tackler then accelerated into the corner to score 5-5.

The lads were flying and a superb run from Farai Chickumbirike from his own half put the lads further ahead, converted by Ben Hutchinson 12-5.

Then a try saving tackle from Fletcher kept Durham at bay. They kept going and again the big lad for them made a number of hand-offs to score 12-10. More tackles of note came from Kye Horn, Devrim Koca and Matthew Sanderson but Durham went in front after a strong solo run 12-15.

Next, a swift run from Ben was stopped illegally so he stepped up to kick the pen 15-15 half time, a pulsating game!

Second half the lads started well and almost scored twice through strong solo runs from Ben but he was halted just short by excellent tackles. Sunderland looked to have scored again through Reece Thompson but a pile of bodies over Durham's line meant a 5 metre scrum. Durham seemed unable to get out of their own half and Tye Hanlon made a number of tackles to keep them pinned in but Durham must be commended for being able to halt three strong attacks from Sunderland. They then stepped up a gear and moved the ball across the pitch well to go in front 15-22.

Great work from Matthew Sanderson to relieve pressure, but Durhams big lad proved to be a real thorn in Sunderlands side and off he went again to score 15-29. Durham added another to make it 15-36 then they made an interception to score again 15- 43 despite a great chase from Louis Deathe, whose last ditch tackle almost saved a try.

A disappointing end to a good game for Sunderland but a lot more positives than negatives. Hopefully they can take that forward and can sustain their first half efforts for the full game next week away to Gateshead in the county cup.

Match report by Gary Jackson.