Northumbria University M1 Rugby Union got their BUCS Super Rugby campaign off to the perfect start coming from behind to claim a bonus point win against a strong Bath University side.
Heading into halftime, Northumbria found themselves staring down the barrel of a 17-7 deficit.
But a try from Josh Rudling and a conversion from scrum-half James Elliot right before the whistle meant that Northumbria managed to cut Bath’s lead to three.
What followed in the second half was a vintage attacking performance from Darren Fearn’s men, with Northumbria eventually running out 29-23 victors over their South West counterparts.
And speaking afterwards, it was clear that Fearn could not contain his delight at the result.
“I was really chuffed with our performance,” said an enthusiastic Fearn.
“The first half was a little disjointed with injuries and yellow cards which can happen after a seven-hour coach journey.
“I knew that if we kept Bath in touching distance that we’d be able to come out all guns blazing in the second half which we did.
“So overall I’m absolutely delighted because it was such a mature performance by the lads.”
And Fearn was keen to single out the performances of both scrum-half James Elliot and flanker Yaree Fantini.
“James had a really good game,” said Fearn.
“I thought he did really well controlling and managing the game.
“With us receiving a couple of injuries, he had to play a big role for us.
“He’s transferred to Northumbria from Leeds Beckett because he wanted an opportunity and he really stood out.
“Yaree’s performance was outstanding.
“He was dogged in defence all night and really stood up for us when we needed him because there were spells where our defence was really under pressure.
“If I’m honest, it’s probably one of the best performances I’ve seen here during my three years with Northumbria.”
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