PLYMOUTH Albion’s director of rugby Graham Dawe admitted it was ‘sweet’ to claim a win at Wharfedale on Saturday.
However, Dawe admitted he didn’t think his young side were doing to do it after missing four second half kicks at goal, including one from 22 metres out in the 78th minute, to trail 9-7 going into the 80th minute.
But, with time almost up and the Wharfeside Avenue pitch almost in darkness, Matt Shepherd sneaked over the try line to secure Albion a 12-9 National One victory in tough conditions.
Dawe had been in charge when Albion made their only previous visit to the Yorkshire Dales club. That day in December 2001, Albion were beaten 28-20, which ended a record-breaking 41 consecutive National League wins for Plymouth.
“Getting a win in Wharfedale does not make up for the past, but it is a very sweet moment for a Plymouth Albion supporter,” said Dawe.
“We left it late and when we missed that penalty late on I thought it might be all over. But we got field position with a scrum from a great kick by Cam Setter and pressure from our wingers and we got there in the end.
“I was very pleased the win came in the end as it was something we wanted.”
Dawe admitted his team found it really tough against a fired up Wharfedale side and battling Storm Desmond, which brought driving rain and gale-force winds to North Yorkshire.
“Fair play to Wharfedale, they denied us a lot of possession,” said Dawe.
“Wharfedale played extremely well in the conditions. I have not seen all their games but I would imagine that is one of their better performances. They really stepped up.”
Dawe, whose team struggled more with the wind than against it, added: “It is as tough playing with the wind as it is against it when it is as strong as that.
“Our penalty count was high and we never really got a foothold in the game.
“But the most pleasing thing was the first half – getting that try under the sticks which proved so important at the end of the match.”