Hornsea 53
Nestle Rowntrees 24
Hornsea secured the league title with a comprehensive victory over second-placed Rowntrees.
Both teams have battled it out over the past couple of seasons or so and who would be crowned champions was down to this fixture alone.
The game started with a five-point difference between first and second and there were five ways that Hornsea could obtain the silverware, however in the end the easiest option of simply winning was taken.
That said, within 20 minutes or so, the title was won via a fourth try and the bonus point – the rest, while enjoyable to watch with good rugby played, was simply academic.
The start was bright and tries were scored early. At first, any observer could be forgiven for thinking that a cricket score, with no reply, was coming. Hornsea in past times would perhaps have relaxed and taken their foot off the gas but this is now not the Hornsea way, and attack was attempted at almost every opportunity.
Nestlé of course more than played their part and were able to score four tries of their own – one through Hornsea being asleep, one through individual effort, and two on the back of constant penalties in the Hornsea five-metre area.
Hornsea’s season and success has been about a number of things.
The squad and the willingness on most occasions to travel, some depth in key positions, and a backline that has the absolute ability to attack from anywhere on the pitch.
The mix of experienced wise heads and the youth that is now coming through, whilst not sustainable in the long term, has certainly been useful in the last two seasons or so.
When this back line fires, it does so at pace and with purpose.
That said, whereas the Hollismen backs have been a key feature of this season’s success, it is also accurate to say that as a team Hornsea’s defence has been immense all season.
This was evident again on Saturday, with numerous attacks not only stopped close to the try line but pushed back by some distance at times.
In summary, a great day. Promotion secured on VP’s Day in front of perhaps the largest crowd in some years.
Two tries from Brandon Leggett, Andy Finch and Dave Asbridge with one apiece, and an outstanding four from Liam Tudor Bateman gave the East Yorkshire side a fitting and well-deserved end to the 2024/25 campaign.
Yorkshire Three now awaits, and should this group remain together and complement itself with the obvious talent from the 2023-25 Colts team, there is little reason for Hornsea to fear anything in the league above.