A cold blustery day on the east coast saw Sandal RUFC take on Scarborough in a fixture where historically they have tended to come out on top.

They were in much need of a win to reboot their season, but Scarborough’s new multi-million pound strategic investment plan has also spurred them on and they ran out 43-17 winners, writes Justin English.

Sandal enjoyed good possession early on, but suffered a blow when scrum-half Max Rowntree had to limp off after seven minutes with an injury that could see him out for some time.

This changed the shape of Sandal's attacking line-up and against the run of play Scarborough drew first blood with a penalty goal.

Henry West goes over for a try for Sandal at Scarborough. Picture: Ned McCann

placeholder image — Henry West goes over for a try for Sandal at Scarborough. Picture: Ned McCann

However, the visitors continued to play good rugby and promptly marched back up field. From the home 22 they ran the ball through the backs to give winger Henry West plenty of time and space to beat his opposite winger to score the first try.

Hali Joannou kicked the conversation and Sandal were in the driving seat, more so when Joannou added a penalty in the 12th minute.

Scarborough eased their way into the contest and broke through twice as the clock ticked down the first half.

But Sandal scored their second try as quick hands saw them use the width of the field with West rounding his opposite number again to dot down. With Joannou adding the extras, they went into the break 17-15 to the good and were deserving of their lead.

Scarborough started the second half with intent, however, and went back ahead 13 minutes in.

Sandal showed grit and determination in their defence and the second half was a well fought battle which could have tipped either way.

Good line breaks from Karolis Navickas showed what he was capable of and Ibrahim Shamchiyev ran probing lines to try and break the deadlock.

The game was in the balance, but in the final 10 minutes Scarborough cut through, scoring multiple tries to run away with the win.

The scoreline did not reflect the application and effort that went into this game. Sandal’s game management was much improved and had they played in this way against York and Northern in their previous matches, those results could have been victories and the team would have a different standing.

Sandal are back on home soil this Saturday as they take on Scunthorpe.