Back-to-back try bonus-point victories for Goole, as a blistering, high-octane start proved too much for a lively West Leeds side—who had won the reverse fixture earlier in the season by a similar margin.
The occasion was further boosted by the welcome return to first-team action of Josh Malcolmson, Sam Thurlow and Adam Wileman. In near-perfect conditions, spectators were treated to a thrilling afternoon as Goole secured their four-try bonus point in record time, racing into a 26–0 lead after just 16 minutes.
West Leeds kicked off but were immediately put under intense pressure, barely seeing possession during the opening spell as Goole produced rugby of the highest quality. Waves of attack, with players taking turns to break the line and support runners flooding through at pace, overwhelmed the visitors.
The opening try arrived inside 30 seconds, with James Chantry crossing, and it wasn’t long before Luke Cooper added a second after five minutes. Both were converted by Rhys Moore to make it 14–0.
Goole had to work harder for their third, after being held up over the line, but Raymond Coates eventually forced his way over from close range. A fourth score looked inevitable, and after repeated West Leeds infringements at a 5-metre scrum—resulting in a yellow card—Moore picked up from the base and strolled over for the bonus-point try, converting his own score to extend the lead to 26–0.
West Leeds responded well when they finally gained possession, scoring two quick, converted tries from their first visits into Goole’s 22 to reduce the deficit to 26–14.
However, Goole quickly reasserted control. Sam Smith powered through a retreating defence for the fifth try, before Cooper grabbed his second of the afternoon to cap an extraordinary first half. Half-time: 36–14.
After a breathless opening period—widely regarded as some of the best rugby Goole have played this season—the second half began at a more measured pace. Goole continued to move the ball ambitiously, but were punished when a loose pass near the West Leeds line was intercepted, allowing the visitors to run the length of the field and narrow the gap to 36–21.
Goole responded positively and were unlucky not to score from a well-executed catch-and-drive, only to be held up over the line. From the resulting dropout, they soon regained control, with Josh Malcolmson marking his return with a try in the corner to make it 41–21.
A late error from Goole, however, gifted West Leeds one final opportunity. A goal-line dropout that went directly into touch handed the visitors a 5-metre scrum, from which they scored to secure their own try bonus point.
Final score: 41–28.
Another impressive and highly entertaining performance from Goole, who looked dangerous every time they had the ball. The back three of Smith, Malcolmson and Cooper were particularly influential throughout.
While there may still be a desire to tighten up defensively, Goole’s attacking firepower continues to shine. Attention now turns to next week’s challenge against Hullensians—a fixture that promises more exciting rugby.