Goole's 2nd XV travelled to Hallamshire on Saturday looking to continue their impressive start to the league campaign, but came up against a tough, competent and well-organised home side who proved worthy winners.

Having enjoyed a positive opening to the season, including successive home victories over Barton & District and Wortley, Goole arrived with confidence. However, Hallamshire provided a stern examination, demonstrating the quality and experience that will make them formidable opponents in Counties 4 Yorkshire C this season.

Despite the challenge, Goole continued to compete and showed determination to get themselves on the scoreboard, registering 12 points against strong opposition. Ultimately, though, Hallamshire's attacking threat proved too much, with the hosts running out 45–12 winners.

While the result was disappointing, there will be valuable lessons for Goole to take from the afternoon. The 2nds have made an encouraging start to the campaign, and one difficult away fixture should not overshadow the progress being made by the squad.

Attention now turns to next Saturday, 24 October, when Goole welcome Maltby II to Westfield Banks. The opportunity to return to home soil provides the perfect chance to respond positively and get their league campaign back on track.