Phoenix make a bright start

Rotherham Phoenix got their Yorkshire 3 league campaign off to a flying start, dispatching new boys Leeds Medics 32-9 on Herringthorpe. Phoenix dominated territory and possession throughout culminating in a resounding victory.

Phoenix ran in five tries to none against a talented Leeds outfit, who were full of confidence coming into the fixture, after gaining promotion last term. However, the Rotherham pack was outstanding throughout and set the platform for much of the good work, particularly so in the second half.

Trailing 8-9 at the break, Rotherham stepped up their intensity in the second half and on the back of some powerful forward play and nippy work from the backs; they eventually ran out comfortable, worthy winners. Two tries apiece from Palethorpe and White, one from Barrett and Jenkinson with two conversions and a penalty did the damage for Phoenix.

Collecting the try-bonus point sees Rotherham joint top of Yorkshire 3 after the first round of matches. Next week as they attempt to consolidate their fine start, they travel to Aireborough, who lost at the weekend to Thornensians.

Rotherham Phoenix: 1 Robinson, 2 Pitcher, 3 Bunting, 4 Palethorpe, 5 Ward, 6 Coy, 7 Dynan, 8 White (Capt.), 9 Bird, 10 Jenkinson, 11 Bunclarke, 12 Allott, 13 Jarvis, 14 Saddington, 15 Barrett.

Replacements: Banks, Mallender, Crookes, Parker.

Scorers: Palethorpe (2T), White (2T), Barrett (1T), Jenkinson (2C, 1P).

Man of the Match: Olly Dynan