DMP launch a second-half revival as Hull collapse

By RICHARD PRICE-PIERCE

Hull……………………….22

Darlington MP…….29

Hull ultimately lost a game they were in complete control of for 39 minutes because they turned over the ball too often to their opponents.

Leading 19-0 as the first half drew to a close, Hull conceded a late try and found it difficult to re-assert their superiority.

After the kick-off, Hull were quickly into their stride and having driven upfield a penalty award saw Hull kick for touch and then advance to the try line. When the ball was released, Joe Carlisle made space for Keane Naylor to touch down – Reece Dean converting.

Both had opportunities to score, but Hull were able to increase their lead when a breakout saw winger Mike Adlard held back as he and Darlington centre, Liam Checksfield, raced for the touchdown resulting in a yellow card for Checksfield and a penalty try for Hull after 25 minutes.

With Hull bringing on fresh props Charlie Beech and Ben Bootham, their scrummage dominance continued. It came as no surprise, too, when they were awarded another penalty and when the resulting lineout possession arrived with Carlisle's chip through saw Reece Dean race in to score an unconverted try.

However, with Hull still struggling with their lineout, Darlington were able to make use of the extra possession and a late try by Garry Law gave them a chance at 19-5 at the half-time interval.

The second period saw Hull again dominate the scrums, but Darlington grew in confidence and tries from Morgan Passman after 45 minutes, second-row man David Fisher after 60 minutes and a penalty try after 73 minutes saw the visitors edge into the lead 24-19 with ten minutes left.

A further try by Yaree Fantini saw Darlington seal their win, but Hull never gave up and a late penalty by Reece Dean saw Hull earn a bonus point to open their account in this division.