Cleck gain revenge in first away win

3:01pm Sunday 30th November 2008

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Darlington 13, Cleckheaton 23

Cleckheaton finally laid their away-day hoodoo to rest by beating a competitive Darlington team, scoring three tries in the process.

Ross Hayden rewarded their early enterprise with an eighth-minute penalty. Two yellow cards in the space of two minutes severely depleted the visitors and an heroic defensive effort almost kept Darlington at bay.

Just prior to the return of back row David Malton and prop Tom Denton, the home side took advantage when second row Chris Paleschi sprinted over from 25 metres.The conversion was missed but the score gave Darlington the advantage at the interval.

Cleckheaton made personnel changes at half time and gambled on an all-out attacking approach.

It paid off as winger Marlon Miller restored their lead with a try before Darlington levelled matters with a penalty from full back Alex Lineton.

In the 56th minute, Hayden eased Cleck back in front with a penalty before further tries from centre Thinus Venter and the combative Ben Wade.

With four minutes to go, Dave Tunstead smashed through the Cleckheaton defence for a good try but the visitors gained deserved revenge for their Intermediate Cup exit.