Dungog trailed by six with less than 10 minutes to go but a brain explosion from a Gateshead player saw him sin binned and Dungog given prime field position to produce a swift set move to score.

Jackson Bell converted and with minutes to go the score was locked at 20 each.

The following set Dungog was able to march down field on the back of several quick play the balls to position themselves for the one pointer. Dave Henderson obliged and Dungog survived a few nervous minutes to hold on to their perfect record at home this season.

Dungog jumped out of the blocks quickly and lead 10 nil following tries to Fletcher Celand and Chris Evans.

However there would be no run away victory as Gateshead constantly matched Dungog in the physical confrontation and were able to get themselves back into the game. It seemed apparent at times that Dungog may have been a little flat for this game.

Gateshead was eventually able to narrow the gap to four points at half time for a 10-6 score-line.

It was evident in the second half that this one would be won in the back end of the game. Dungog was able to score first in the second half through this weeks players’ player Chris Nevin, who is playing in his first season of all age.

Before now it has been widely assumed that the two main contenders for rookie of the year were Mark Johnston and Jackson Bell but if Chris keeps up this form he will certainly be in the running.

Gateshead was able to score the next two tries to set up the thrilling finish.

Best on the day for Dungog in the backs were both wingers Jackson Bell and Chris Nevin who consistently defused Gateshead impressive kicking game, while best back went to Fletcher Celand who was at his usual probing best.

The forwards once again including the reserves consistently put their hand up despite the absence of key forwards Ashley Evans and Kieran Hinton.

Players’ player: Chris Nevin. RSL best back Fletcher Celand, RSL best forward Dan Rumbel and Ray’s reserve Dan Foot.