Hard Work in the Heat

On a scorching hot day at Davidson Park Keswick started brightly controlling the early game with strong forward play. After a patient build-up the ball was released to the back line who created a great opportunity. Unfortunately the final pass was skilfully intercepted by the Durham winger who sprinted 80 metres unopposed to score a try under the posts, which was converted to give Durham a 7 0 lead.

This took its toll on the Keswick team and for the next 20 minutes they struggled in the heat against an experienced Durham side who managed the game and starved Keswick of possession. A further converted try by Durham extended their lead to 14 0 and a further period of indiscipline by Keswick allowed pressure from a string of Durham penalties to yield a further unconverted try by Durham to take the score to 19 0 after 35 minutes.

Keswick responded well and were rewarded with a Steve Holloway penalty to take the score to 19 3, unfortunately Durham hit back at the close of the half with a penalty kick to take the half time score to 22 3.

Keswick came out rejuvenated in the second half and exerted real pressure on the Durham line, Ryan Weir looking really dangerous in open play.

A great catch and drive by the Keswick forwards maintained good field position and Durham were reduced to 14 men with yellow card.

Working hard in the incessant heat Keswick pressure paid off with a well worked try taken by Stephen Moss, unconverted it took the score to 22 8.

Keswick continued to press and had a really positive spell, which was shattered by a further Durham try against the run of play to take the score to 27 8.

Undeterred Keswick fought back and took the game to Durham. Further indiscipline by Durham gave Keswick a string of penalties which resulted in a second yellow card for a Durham player which was converted to a red.

Keswick capitalised on this and Ryan Weir was rewarded for his efforts with a well taken try under the posts with Olly Macpherson converting to take the score to Durham 27 Keswick 15.

Keswick finished the game strongly but were unable to change the score line with both teams looking jaded in the heat at the final whistle.

An improved performance by the Keswick squad in the most unseasonable " Keswick " weather.