The opening period featured a series of line-outs down West’s left-hand side, and it was from one of these that Doncaster took an early lead. Although West won the line-out, the Doncaster flanker (who played well all afternoon) closed down West and, in seeking to intercept, knocked on but was missed by the ref. A kick and chase for the ball followed, with the Yorkshire side eventually going over in the corner. West responded strongly, and threatened the Doncaster line, but when Tom Barker appeared to go over the ref was unsighted and, uncertain that the ball was grounded, called West back for a 5 metre scrum. The rest of the half continued with both sides threatening without creating clear opportunities until, in the last play of the half, West were again caught in possession from their line-out, and the Yorkshiremen scored a second try to go in for a 10-0 halftime lead that seemed a trifle unjust, but which proved that at this level losing possession close to your line is asking for trouble.

Both sides were clearly motivated for the second half, with Doncaster starting strongly, but west withstanding them and then creating their own spell of sustained pressure. Chances were created but not taken, with some decision-making appearing rushed, the usual calmness in attacking situations not being apparent as Doncaster defended with skill and determination. The point of the old adage that you should always score during a period of pressure was then proved when a good Doncaster clearance led to a break-away try. Another West line-out was won, but the clearing kick was charged down, and Doncaster scored under the posts, converting for a 17-0 lead.

The final 15 minutes were dominated by the Yorkshire side, as they brought on fresh legs to run against a West defence which had now lost Stephen Short through injury and had fellow centre Peter Dewhirst limping. A clever final try, following a lofted kick over the top to the corner, sealed the Doncaster victory. 22-0 didn’t seem a true reflection of the game, but nevertheless it would be fair to say that Doncaster deserved to win, despite West playing some excellent rugby at times. As West tired and took injuries, the absence of enough replacements became important. As I said earlier in the campaign, this league looks likely to be won by the team that manages its resources the most effectively, and that still looks likely to be the case. For West a glorious run of wins is over; now they’ve just got to start again. Next week it’s Sunderland away in the County Cup, then a return to League action at home to Harrogate.