Bishop Auckland

Unbeaten in the league, Seaham started the game with a flurry of attacking moves. Bishops, with former player Paul Brookes guesting in the front row, enjoyed a more solid scrum than in previous weeks. The Auckland backs revelled in a constant supply of possession as half backs Colwell and Dufton got them running at every opportunity.

While the Seaham pack held their own for long spells, and were briefly in the lead with an early try, they had no answer to the pace of Bishops' back play. Twice Atkinson ran from deep in his own half to score, and twice Rowell touched down in the corner to round off combined team efforts.

The Auckland forwards set up a number of scoring chances, but it was left to Gallone and Robinson to add the final touches as the ball was moved wide and clear of the Seaham defence. Seaham never gave up trying and their commitment was rewarded with two late tries.

In the absence of Ian Campbell, Steve Caldwell converted two of Bishops' six tries. Seaham scored three tries, one converted.

Bishops seconds went down 29-10 to Billingham thirds in the Tees Valley Social League, despite having plenty of possession and controlling much of the game. Too often Bishops were caught in possession when a quicker passing game would have brought a much greater reward. Kevin Watson scored their points with two tries.

The firsts return to league action tomorrow with a home fixture against Yarm in Durham and Northumberland division three. Kick-off at West Mills is at 2.15pm.