The first ten minutes were played at a cracking pace with both sides throwing the ball about. Pythons came off best with an unconverted try after 5 minutes despite good work from Jack Kaye and debutant fly half Matt Hodkinson, who had a good all round game.

The next score was made by a fine long cut out pass by the Pythons which resulted in a score in the corner. Along with 2 further penalty goals this put the visitors 16 points ahead.

The Reds tried to respond and exerted some pressure and despite 3 penalties they were unable to make headway being frequently robbed of the ball in the mauls and in the tackle.

The second half started in much the same vein with Wetherby’s scrum coming under pressure despite the efforts of Frank Pitchford though they did convert a penalty.

After 70 minutes Harrogate launched a driving maul which led to a further try.Wetherby now enjoyed their best period and were rewarded when a chip kick by Nick Oates behind the Pythons defence caused panic .

They tried to work their winger away but Andy Trotman intercepted the pass and dotted the ball down for an unconverted try. Pythons got their revenge following a Wetherby mistake and the Pythons winger finished off a flowing handling move to give them a decisive victory.

The Reds will need to obtain more possession and keep it against the high scoring league leaders Leeds Medics who are at Grange Park next Saturday, Kick off 3 pm