Unlucky at the Durham Festival

Sunderland were drawn in a pool against Northern and Alnwick and were expected to be challenged from the off.

Sunderland won their first game against Northern 1-0 with a brilliant solo try from Dean Edmundson. They had to withstand some huge pressure from Northern but Luke Newby, Ky Horn and Michael Holder kept them in their own half with strong tackles. Adam Armstrong also contributed with great defence.

Sunderland lost out in the second game 3-1 v Alnwick with Dev Kocas persistence earning a try. Matthew Sanderson worked well with some great tackling, as did Aidan Wayman, and Adam Armstrong. Sunderland’s scrums were somehow lost as the Alnwick scrum half leapt on the ball at every opportunity. An enjoyable match, however, not the result we deserved.

Sunderland then played Durham in the Cup Quarter Final in what was a pulsating game. Huge credit to both sides for their total commitment. A great tackle by Reece Thompson kept the scoreboard clear but Sunderland’s recent bad luck struck once again as they went down 2-0. Determination paid off as the boys tackled and defended like lions. At last a chance to score was made when Sunderland eventually made a break and Michael Holder scored. Now down to a squad of ten they gave their all and were praised for their efforts by everyone who watched. A great match but luck just wasn’t on our side today. Final score Durham 2, Sunderland 1.