Darlington traveled to Bullock Steads the home of Gosforth RFC with their smallest squad for some time and lost 32-0. On what was originally scheduled as a free weekend the unavailable list was extensive. The lack of experienced backs proved costly and Darlington Under-13s suffered their first defeat of the year.

The outcome may have been different had Darlington taken their early chances. From the kick-off. Gosforth were caught cold but survived two attacks close to their try line. Almost immediately however, Gosforth responded with an attack of their own with an individual try ran in from centre field.

Despite an obviously bigger opposition pack Darlington forwards secured all their own ball in the scrum and won at least five against the head. Even though the scrummaging produced good ball to number 10, Rory Clegg, his options were limited and Gosforth flankers put him under pressure on several occasions.

When the ball did get to the wing Dexter Bogle impressed with strong elusive running but failed to cross the line coming very close on two occasions. Unfortunately Dexter had to leave the field injured on half time having just witnessed a hopeful kick to open field that exposed the Darlington defence Gosforth collecting the ball and running in under the posts.

The second half proved equally disappointing for Darlington. As a team there was very little of their usual determination and commitment to tackles. Gosforth exploited this poor tackling and ran in four more tries.