Bridlington RUFC 22 v 3 Bramley Phoenix
By Alexander Fynn at Dukes Park
Bridlington RUFC rounded off 2025 with a superb defensive display and will sit at the top of the tree over the festive period following a battling 22–3 win against Bramley Phoenix.
As Callam Sanderson previously said: “We’re going to have a target on our backs if we’re going to go into 2026 at the summit.”
Blake Hereora opened the scoring from a rolling maul, although Jack Lee was unable to convert and extend the home side’s lead.
With heavy conditions underfoot, both sides played for possession. Although Bramley threatened at times, the hosts grabbed their second try of the game when Callam Sanderson took a quick penalty and produced a clever pass to Oliver Stephenson, who charged over the line. Lee made no mistake with the extras.
Bridlington’s Gary Heeley was sent to the sin bin for backchat to the official, but it did not affect the hosts, who managed the game well with 14 men. Just before half-time, however, Bramley were awarded a penalty to reduce the deficit to 12–3.
With the second period under way, Bridlington scored their third try of the afternoon. Hereora delivered a sublime pass to Jamie Martin, who did the rest by crossing for a simple try, although Lee was again unable to add the extras.
The home side were reduced to 14 men once more as Oliver Stephenson was sent to the sin bin for a late tackle.
Jamie Martin thought he had scored another try, but it was brought back by the official for a knock-on.
Zane Fenton scored his first try of the season, with Hereora once again instrumental in the move. Stephenson finished well in the corner, although Lee was unable to convert.
Bridlington’s defence held firm as they finished the year as 22–3 victors.
Head Coach Sanderson said after the final game of 2025:
“A really good result. We probably didn’t play our best like we usually do, but you can’t argue with five points at home. Bramley Phoenix were a tough, abrasive side.
“Honestly, I’m surprised by their league position — they’re very physical. It’s good to be top of the table and we can reflect on the first part of the season; there’s a lot to be happy about. Our focus now is continuing that into 2026.
I thought Jamie Martin was brilliant today in the back row, and I also thought 17-year-old Zane Fenton played really well on the wing.
“He brought some real attacking intent to the squad. Preparation for Ripon will be tough because it’s straight after the New Year break, and they haven’t lost at home yet, so they’ll be a tough opponent.”
