Leeds Tykes vs Sale FC

Recap

Late, late show for Sale FC at Leeds

A trip over the Pennines on a cold Friday evening saw 4th placed Sale FC take on a Leeds side looking to add to their impressive win over Rotherham in their pre-Christmas game.

The hosts were in front after only 4 minutes, Ben Dixon getting his name on the scoresheet after a good break from Charlie Venables; Seremaia Bai Turagabeci made no mistake with the conversion. 7-0

A few minutes later, the blue and whites were level. After winning a 5m lineout, Sale bombarded the try line before Josh Brown dived over; Joe Green added the two. 7-7

Sale had opportunities to go in front but had to wait until the 31st minute when another catch and drive propelled Brown over for his second, again converted by Green. HT 7-14

The second half saw the hosts with plenty of territory and only strong defence from the Dogs and the width of a post prevented Tykes from getting back in the game.

However, Leeds’ kicking game was on point and, following a superb 50/22 (one of three in the half), Sebi Krippner scored in the corner and Eddie Crossland converted to level the scores with 12 minutes left to play. 14-14

Somehow, Sale survived a further onslaught before heading downfield and scoring what proved to be the winning try through Alfie Longstaff. FT 14-19

An attritional game of rugby with Tykes belying their low league position to push Sale all the way, but the Dogs showed immense character to secure an important victory.