Tigers, Terriers and Tornadoes (the final match)

17.3.24

The Terriers headed off to the John Charles Centre for their final match against West Yorkshire B. They knew that to overhaul Derbyshire and finish in 2nd place they would need 32 points from this match. Their county colleagues in the Tigers had scored 33 in their away match so hopes were high that they could do it as well. It could not have been closer with only 2 mats dropped in both morning and afternoon sessions the scores were 24-8 to the Terriers. A full set of bonus points would have done the trick but the scoresheet shows that they were only able to claim these from 3 of the 4 disciplines giving a final result of 30-10 (193-141). Very close but still an excellent end to a good season with 6 match wins overall.

The Tigers took a trip to “Geordieland” to play Durham for their final match. Their hard work throughout the season had got them into a virtually unassailable position meaning that they travelled in the sure knowledge that just 2 points would secure them the Division2 title. Such a result was not really in doubt and although the 15-25 (179-220) score-line was their 3rd defeat of the year, the team can now look forward pitching their skills next year against the “big boys” in Division 1. They have been there 5 times in the past (last time in 2018/19) but have always been relegated the following year. Now, with many new players and a new captain at the helm they will be very much up for the challenges to come in 2024-25.
For the Tornados their final match was always going to be their toughest. Although they had been undefeated throughout the season they now had to face Staffordshire on their own territory. In the last 9 years Staffs had won Division 1 five times and been runners 4 times. Although the Tornadoes only needed 9 points, the home side were now looking for a 4th title in a row and were taking no prisoners. And so it was…..32-8 (228-131) to Martin Simcock’s lads and disappointment for Rodders and his crew in spite of trying their hardest. Looking back, it is a sobering fact that the points needed to secure the Cup could have come from any of the 160 games played along the way. But one thing is certain, the Tornados will aiming for the top once again next year.