FOLLOWING a run of below-par performances, Barnsley RUFC First XV returned to winning ways with an 18-6 home victory over North Ribblesdale. It was only their second League Two victory of the season but they turned on the style despite a much changed line-up, which saw captain Paul Matthews pull out due to a knee injury. This meant number eight Nic Ruddlesdin was to lead a youthful team into battle and he duly relished the challenge, producing his best performance of the season and deserving his man of the match award. Barnsley experienced line-out problems early on and this allowed the visitors to strike and open up a 3-0 lead with an early penalty by Jonathan Richards. This acted as a wake-up call to the home side and with speedy wingers Gray and Cheetham coming more in to the game, it was a matter of time before Barnsley were on the scoresheet. Scott Hinchcliffe kicked two penalties leaving the score 6-3 at half-time.

The second half would bring plenty of fortune for the Shaw Lane men, after rock solid defending gave the team the platform to attack. Barnsley took possession and through some excellent pick-and-drives from the forwards and clear runs out wide, Barnsley were back playing their rugby in the Ribb 22. Ribb were awarded a scrum on their own five metre line and the Barnsley tight five showed their strength for Ruddlesdin to smash his way to the line for a well-earned try. Barnsley were now at full tilt and tested the Ribb defence with more astute ball carrying. It was Daryl Cheetham who was next to cross the line with a trademark try using his pace to out strip a tiring defence. Hinchcliffe added the extras. With 10 minutes to go and leading 18-3 the game was all but over. To be fair to the visitors, Ribb continued to attack but the Barnsley backs defended stoutly, with a late penalty proving nothing more than a consolation. Callum Wogan also caught the eye, putting his body on the line at scrum half and stole some excellent ball in open play. Barnsley are in cup action this weekend and will be looking to continue their good form at Pocklington, in the next round of the EDF Vase.