YORK Lokomotive ARLC boss Paul McDermott has warned against complacency after they began their RL Conference Yorkshire East campaign by thrashing Barnsley Broncos 62-0.
A similarly good start last season was followed by a dire result and McDermott does not want a repeat of that downturn when the Lokos visit Walton Warriors on Saturday (bus leaves Corner Pin at noon).
However, he has praised the character in the new-look squad – there were nine debutants – as they target a return to the play-offs. The former York RL favourite said: “There’s no need to get carried away with the result. We had a similar one in the first game last season, and got soundly thrashed in the next game.
“But I doubt history will repeat itself as this group of players are of terrific character. They clearly want to play for the Lokos, and not just have a game in the summer as a few did last season.”
The victory was marred by a broken arm to newcomer Linley McLean, but McDermott added: “I’m happy with the win, and thrilled with the attitude shown by all.”
McDermott was also delighted his team put into practice what they had been doing in training, including a new defensive system.
He added: “The result didn’t reflect Barnsley’s effort and skill. They were unlucky to play us when everything we did clicked.”
Things began to click early on when Matt Turner raced in for the first of his hat-trick of tries.
Other touchdowns came from Tom Storey (2), Gareth Howell (2), when gathering a kick from former Heworth player Liam Watling, who has returned to rugby league after a spell with York RUFC, Zak Hardy, Gary Watkinson and Arran Thompson (2). Watkinson (7), Storey and John Hough added conversions.
The moment of the match, though, came at the other end with a thunderous try-saving tackle from man-of-the-match Turner.
New Earswick have no match in the Pennine League championship but their ‘A’ team finish their division four season by replaying their game against promotion-seeking Ovenden ‘A’, the original fixture having been abandoned late on after a brawl. All Blacks, who led 18-16 at the time, need a win to make sure of staying up.
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