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Saturday
2nd September
GOOLE 15
KEIGHLEY 7 (Yorkshire Shield)
A
Keighley side weakened by cricketing duties, holidays, injuries and
suspensions failed at the first hurdle in the Yorkshire Shield
competition at soggy windswept Goole.
It
was a game the visitors should have had in the bag by half time,
such was the early domininance. Only for brief spells did Goole even
set foot in Keighley territory before the interval, but the Utley men
were unable to convert their superiority into points.
A
well taken try by Matthew Cox, which he also converted, after 18
minutes play, proved to be the sum total of Keighley's success.
It came from a rare backs' move from a tapped penalty, a well timed
pass by stand off Liam McGee providing the opening for the full back
to burst through the defence.
Goole's
increasing frustration at the stranglehold maintained by the
Keighley pack led to the sin-binning in rapid succession of
prop Hague and hooker Moore, but even then Keighley were unable
to penetrate a determined defence, despite some clever work by backs
McGee & Balderstone and some determined work by forwards Pullen,
Clarke & Sugden.
The
appearance in the second half of Chris Meehan at full back, with Cox
moving to the wing for Scott Amos, showed immediate promise even
though Keighley persistantly failed to exploit the wind, strangely
seeking to make progress with the ball in hand when judicious kicking
must surely have been a better option.
The
withdrawal of heavyweight forwards Paul Sinfield & Richard
Leach, however, enabled Goole to compete on more equal terms up
front, but the most significant impact on the game was the
introduction by the home side of the experienced James Ruhman at
stand off. His accurate & shrewd kicking re-vitalised his
team forcing Keighley onto the defence. With 20 minutes remaining the
first real enterprise by Goole backs led to wingman Chris Wood
crossing in the corner after Keighley's defence was caught in two
minds. Suddenly the structure of the game had altered &
Keighley were soon under pressure again. From a throw-in 10
metres out they were unable to check a relentless rolling maul to
the line resulting in a try for hooker Darren Moore which gave
Goole the lead.
There
was no way back for the Utley men and their problems were compounded
when a loose clearance kick was fielded by full back Phil Neal who
provided the pass for brother Chris to complete the scoring.
For
Saturday's League opener at Pontefract Tim Marlow is at centre
and Mark Lister & Lee Gordon come into the back row.
Saturday
9th September
PONTEFRACT
53 KEIGHLEY 6
In
recent seasons Keighley have regularly opened their league campaign
at Pontefract with a defeat, but seldom have they been beaten so
comprehensively as on Saturday.
On
a glorious late summer afternoon they were outplayed for most of the
match by a fitter, more skilful & faster side, which displayed
the form which will surely see them in the mix for promotion at the
end of the season.
It
would be easy, if unconstructive, to point to excuses for Keighley's
disappointing showing, but the selected side lacked a handful of key
players & was further weakened by two late withdrawals through injury.
The
loss at half time of centre Nigel Curr with a leg injury then
deprived the side of one of its best defenders, after Keighley's
first half performance had shown glimpses of promise. Their
attacking chances were few but they defended bravely enough. It was a
pity that the referee summarily awarded yellow cards to forwards
Richard Leach & Mark Lister for technical offences whilst later
appearing to overlook indiscretions from the home side. Nonetheless
poor discipline is a problem the side must learn to overcome.
Lacking
a forward for half of the first period severely hampered the
visitor's efforts, well as the pack contested & they fell behind
to a try by wingman Matthew Hargreaves following a scrum close to the
line. Further pressure brought a try for centre Tommy Archer
converted by Andy Dean, but Keighley kept in touch with two penalty
goals by Matthew Cox.
The
ageless Kevin Bottomley briefly rallied Keighley with a sniping run
from the base of the scrum but on the stroke of half time Archer's
pace again proved too much to handle and he crossed for his second try.
An
early second half try by wingman Michael Bateman, converted by Dean,
set the pattern for the second half. Keighley were starved of
possession and lacked the pace, and sometimes the application, to
defend against the slick work of the home backs. Further tries came
relentlessly for Hargreaves, Archer, Dean and Bateman, man of the
match Archer completing his hat-trick in the final minute of play.
Coach
Jeff Inman and his staff must now rally the side, which at better
strength is easily capable of significant improvement.
Hooker
Dave Pullan and No: 8 Leigh Sugden were the pick of a hardworking
pack & there was an encouraging show by the young replacement
Scott Dyson who set an example to some senior players with his
robust tackling and keenness in open play. Bottomley and Cox
were the best of the back division, in a generally sub-standard performance.
For
Saturday's home League encounter with Sandal (K.O. 3 pm) backs Danny
Horne and Asa Firth make a welcome return and Scott Dyson & Lee
Gordon start in the back row.
KEIGHLEY
14 SANDAL 25
A
home defeat by Wakefield side Sandal leaves a still depleted Keighey
side searching for their first win of the season. In many
respects it was an improved performance but a much more controlled
and disciplined approach is essential if real progress is to be made.
Far too many penalties were conceded and this, combined with an
inclination to kick away hard won possession, enabled the visitors
easily to clear danger in defence and to exploit attacking opportunities.
Sandal
drew first blood with a penalty goal after five minutes by their
efficient stand off Tom Smith, but two successful strikes by full
back Matthew Cox edged Keighley ahead. The lead was short lived. A
pick up and drive by no: 8 Sean Maguire from a five metre scrum
brought the game's first try after 22 minutes play and another
penalty goal by Smith further extended the advantage.
Keighley
struck back with a spectacular 60 metre breakaway by centre Mark
Beckett, following good turnover ball by hooker Dave Pullen at a ruck
close to the Keighley try line. Wingman Richard Cavender supported
well to collect a difficult try-scoring pass to equal the
scores. Keighley struggled to contain Sandal's well controlled
rolling mauls which several times allowed the visitors to make good
progress, but half time saw the home side ahead by 14 points to 11
after other penalty goals by Cox and Smith.
What
should have been a platform for victory collapsed abruptly from the
re-start. An accurate kick by Smith set up an attacking base and prop
Rob Norbury trundled to the line virtually unopposed for a
try. As time ebbed away Keighley remained unable to win enough
possession to create scoring chances. A penalty attempt by Cox
rebounded off a post but rarely, if at all, did they threaten the try line.
It
was left to Sandal to complete the scoring when late in the game
Norbury forced his way over the line from close range, leaving Smith
with a simple conversion.
KEIGHLEY
20 WHEATLEY HILLS 5
Keighley's
revival continued with a well earned win over an uncompromising
Wheatley Hills side. Victory was never seriously in doubt, with
the visitors penned in their own half for long periods, but Keighey's
lack of discipline robbed them of try scoring chances, London Society
referee Rob Tahuri regularly punishing their indiscretions and
allowing the Doncaster side temporary relief.
Ten
minutes of almost constant pressure finally paid dividends for
Keighley. A strong run by centre Nigel Curr set up a ruck midfield 25
metres from the try line. Hooker Dave Pullen appeared out wide,
making good progress before flanker Lee Gordon dived over from well
won possession close to the line. Stand off Chris Meehan added a
splendid conversion from near touch. He was later unfortunate to
strike the post with a penalty goal attempt before adding a
successful effort to give Keighley a 10 point half time lead.
In
spite of their overall supremacy Keighley were under pressure in the
scrums and consequently unable to supply quick possession to their
backs. There were, however, passages of exciting and skillful play as
Meehan and full back Mark Beckett ran strongly assisted by some
creative play by centres Liam McGee and Curr.
Upfront
No: 8 Leigh Sugden was back to his finest form, his bullocking runs
causing all sorts of problems for the visitors defence. He was well
supported by younger brother Ollie who enjoyed his best game to date
in the senior side. It was a break from defence by Leigh Sugden
which set up Keighley's second try. The attack was continued at pace
by the backs, culminating with Chris Meehan darting over between the
posts before converting.
Another
penalty goal by Meehan put Keighley into the comfort zone. They
should have moved on to take full advantage with more points, but in
a disappointing finale conceded a try by replacement wingman Brad
Christian as Wheatley Hills pressed home the bonus of the home side's
replacement scrum half Kevin Botomley's spell in the sin bin.
If the season is to be a success it is essential tha the side keeps
all its players on the field and concedes fewer penalty awards,
situations it shows a worrying inability at the moment to achieve.
BRADFORD
SALEM 23 KEIGHLEY 20
It
was a pity one side had to lose in this pulsating derby at Shay
Lane. It was always an absorbing & often thrilling
encounter, with the result in doubt until the final whistle.
Sadly once again Keighley contributed to their own downfall by
conceding too many penalties & leaked a crucial first half try
whilst second row forward Richard Leach languished in the sin bin for
persistantly killing the ball at rucks. They were, however, for
much of the game the more constructive & skillful side, even
though they struggled at times in the set pieces.
Playing
into a stiff wind Keighley fell behind to a second minute penalty by
home stand off Matt Booth for over robust work by the visitor's
forwards at a ruck in front of the posts. They were fortunate
not to suffer a similar fate a few minutes later when Booth
squandered a similar chance. He was successful with his third attempt
after 18 minutes play when centre Liam McGee failed to release the
ball after a tackle, but Keighley were still contesting well in all
phases of the game.
A
thrilling 40 metre break by stand off Chris Meehan took play to the
home 22 metre line but he was unable to find support. Keighley
maintained the initiative,however,forcing a penalty which was well
converted by Meehan. For a time they dominated play and a weaving run
by full back Mark Beckett deserved better reward. As half time
approached,and with the Keighley pack by then one man short, Salem
piled on the pressure from a 5 metre lineout. A long relieving
kick by Meehan eased the danger but the home side soon drove play
back again and grabbed the game's first try when flanker Steve Cowman
touched down after a powerful maul to the line. Undeterred Keighley
forced their way back into contention, a second penalty goal by
Meehan restoring their spirits by half time.
From
the restart Keighley quickly took play to the opposition. The back
row combination of Rob Ellis, Leigh Sugden and Lee Gordon was in
outstanding form, ever alert on attack & devastating in defence
and Salem were stunned by a great try by Gordon who burst onto the
ball from a set piece lineout move to cross in style. Meehan's
conversion edged the Utley men ahead for the first time.
Salem
struck back immediately, a skillful raid by their backs opening the
way for full back Richard Langhorn to restore their lead with a fine try.
Mark
Beckett, Keighley's outstanding player on the day, again split the
defence with a strong run,setting up play close to the home side try
line, but in the defining moment of the match prop Paul Sinfield lost
control of the ball with the try line beckoning. It was snapped
up by the home side who released their speedy wingman Chris Sav va
who made 80 metres before delivering a try scoring pass to fellow
wingman Chris Luxton with Booth converting.
Keighley's
resolve was undiminished & they reduced the home side's lead to
3 points when Backett's skill & pace brought him an excellent try
improved by Meehan. In a desparate finale the Salem defence
held out against a determined assault and Keighley were denied the
victory their efforts deserved.
KEIGHLEY
9 BRIDLINGTON 10
Keighley's
topsy-turvey season continued with the narrowest of defeats.
Whilst the visitors just about deserved their success, it was a game
which Keighley could easily have won. Once again,however, the
injury jinx struck home with the pre-match news of influential full
back Mark Becketts's broken hand, coupled with the loss of centre
Nigel Curr and wingman James Tillotson with flu. The further
loss of play-maker Chris Meehan after 15 minutes with a badly torn
muscle suffered when he slipped attempting a kick at goal, was a
bridge too far for the Utley men.
Up
to then Keighley were in full control, good play by backs &
forwards penning Bridlington in their own half. A well executed drop
goal by Meehan after 4 minutes play opened the scoring and shortly
after his departure from the field full back Matthew Cox
increased the lead with a penalty goal.
Gradually,
however, the visitors eased into contention. Keighley's
re-constructed back division, whilst sound in defence, stuttered in
attack and Bridlington pegged back the score with a penalty goal by
Jamie Muru. The Utley men were fortunate that the usually
accurate stand off was off form with the boot, missing three further
penalty goal chances before half time.
Another
penalty goal by Cox early in the second half boosted Keighley, but
they were forced to survive a torrid 10 minutes of relentless
pressure on their line from a series of scrums, mauls and lineouts.
The defence was superb, with scrum half Kevin Bottomley, flanker Rob
Ellis and Lee Gordon setting the example, but almost inevitably their
keenness and desperation culminated in Bottomley's banishment to the
sin bin for persistant offside.
Keighley
continued to hold out against the relentless assault of the
Bridlington forwards, who might on occasions have been better advised
to release the ball to their under used backs. Persistance
prevailed when finally scrum half Adam Thomas dummied over from close
range with Muru's simple conversion giving his side the lead for the
first time.
Keighley
fought back with commendable spirit, but without creating real
chances until the last minute of the game when a potential match
winning penalty goal attempt by Cox drifted agonisingly and narrowly
past the post.
Problems
abound for coach Jeff Inman who looks certain to be without the
services of Chris Meehan & Mark Beckett for a few weeks. On
the credit side wingman Asa Firth came through unscathed after along
lay-off following knee surgery.
HUDDERSFIELD
YMCA 26 KEIGHLEY 24
For
the third week in a row Keighley suffered the agony of a narrow
defeat, the disappointment all the more acute since the home side
snatched victory with a converted try in the third minute of extra
time when the Utley men appeared to have the points in the bag.
Their
re-arranged side performed magnificently after a shakey start when
the powerful and speedy Huddersfield backs threatened to run amok. In
spite of some brave tackling the home side swept into a 12 point lead
after full back David Rees had crossed twice with winger David Holmes
adding a conversion.
Gradually,
however, the Keighley pack began to restrict Huddersfield's
possession and good work by prop Paul Sinfield set up an attacking
base close to the line from where flanker Lee Gordon picked up from a
ruck and forced his way over. Johnny Harrison, standing in for
the injured Chris Meehan added the conversion and Keighley were back
in contention. They continued to take play to the opposition, a
fine jinking run by Liam McGee stretching the defence, but were
unable to add to their tally before half time.
A
penalty goal miss by Harrison, who otherwise had a sound game,
failed to deter Keighley. Whilst their lineout play was often scrappy
the forwards were increasingly impressive in the scrums and loose
play and it was from a turnover of possession close to the line that
No. 8 Leigh Sugden drove over for the equalising try.
Huddersfield
struck back decisively, a break by centre Mavaega Iosefa setting up
a second well taken try for Rees converted by Holmes. Once
again superb work by the pack kept Keighley in the game and a well
won scrum close to the line allowed the irrepressible Leigh Sugden to
grab his second try, this time well converted by Harrison.
The
Keighley No. 8 was at his best form, his powerful run once more
taking play deep into the home half but it was just reward for the
efforts of the whole team when quick possession from a ruck and neat
handling enabled Sugden to complete an excellent hat trick and push
Keighley into the lead for the first time.
As
minutes ebbed away Keighley appeared to be in control. Full back Asa
Firth's pace and neat work by centres Tim Marlow and Adam Balderstone
combined with the continued determination of the forwards, saw them
seemingly edging towards a deserved victory.
It
was not to be. A clearance kick was deflected into the hands of
wingman Holmes who crossed unopposed before touching down between the
posts. His simple match-winning conversion was a formality.
In
an all round top class performance the chief plaudits must go to
Leigh Sugden, but there were many other noteable efforts, in
particular by forwards Paul Sinfield, Lee Gordon and Ollie
Sugden. In the backs it was good to see Asa Firth showing
regular glimpses of his old form alongside a typically chirpy
contribution from Johnny Harrison and a tidy and solid display by Tim
Marlow, both in their first senior games of the season.
KEIGHLEY
17 HEATH 35
A
lifeless Keighley side crashed out of the National Senior Vase
competition in what was possibly their worst display of the season
Wet
slippery conditions hampered both sides, but at half time Keighley
appeared to have the game reasonably under control, turning round
with a lead of 10 points to 3.
They
had been fortunate that visiting stand off Ryan Piper had been
unable to hit the target with penalty goal attempts on three
occasions, but were themselves unlucky to be denied tries, once when
winger Nigel Curr was tacked close to the line and later when No. 8
Leigh Sugden crossed the line but was unable to ground the ball.
Keighley's
early dominance, however, earned them a penalty try, converted by
Matthew Cox, when an attempt at a pushover try was only thwarted by
the visitors deliberately collapsing the scrum.
A
penalty goal by Piper seemed little more than a temporary setback as
Keighley continued to look the better of two unimpressive sides.
Flanker Morgan Bailey's break stretched the defence and Heath were
forced to concede a penalty converted by Cox.
The
visitors declared their intentions early in the second half. Their
hard hitting defenders knocked back Keighley's attempts to dominate
round the scrums, rucks and mauls and the Utley side's form and
spirit deteriorated noticeably. A spell of scrappy, messy play
allowed Heath winger Darren Fermoyle to cross in the corner and
perhaps for the first time the visitors sensed victory.
In
a game changing moment, from a Keighley attack which should have
produced a try, Heath full back Giles Hetherington intercepted no
more than 3 metres from his line, showing clean pair of heels as he
raced the length of the pitch to touch down leaving Piper with the
simplest of conversions.
Keighley
lost further heart. Piper added another penalty goal and woeful
tackling in mid field allowed flanker Eddie Blackmore to stroll over
for a try again inproved by Piper. Briefly Keighley rallied, a
good run by wingman Asa Firth providing the opening for centre Mark
Beckett to run in a well taken try converted by Cox.
Any
lingering thoughts of a meaningful comeback were dispelled,however,
when Bailey, one of the few member of the side to retain any real
enthusiasm for the cause, was harshly sin-binned for over vigorous
use of the boot in a ruck. Heath took full advantage, a Piper penalty
goal being followed in injury time by a final try for man of the
match Hetherington, converted by Piper, the score again owing as much
to Keighley's feeble defence as it did to the full back's pace and determination.
KEIGHLEY
13 ILKLEY 11
A
close call it may have been, but the joy and relief that Keighley's
largely unmerited run of defeats was over was clearly palpable on the
pitch and on the touchline when the final whistle sounded. The
side had endured over five nailbiting minutes of added time
during which the spectre of previous late reversals was always there
to haunt players and spectators alike.
It
was a hard earned but merited success in a tough and tense
encounter. Crucially Keighey's collective resolve to win and team
spirit prevailed, but there were some noteable individual
contributions from backs Mark Beckett, Matthew Cox and Asa Firth and
forwards Leigh Sugden, Dave Pullen and Lee Gordon.
The
Ilkley side was packed with obvious potential, particularly in the
backs, where in the early stages centres Frost & Shanks regularly
tore holes in the Keighley defence. Only a brave last ditch
tackle by full back Mark Beckett on Ilkley wingman Adiero prevented a
score after 5 minutes play, but Keighley were unable to stem the tide
for long before slick passing engineered a well taken try for Shanks.
Gradually
the Keighley pack came into the game, the back row trio looking
increasingly effective. Leigh Sugden & Michael Feather were sound
in the line outs, benefitting from Dave Pullen's accurate throwing
in, and Keighley were able to enjoy a good supply of possession.
A
brilliant run by Matthew Cox saw him round his opposing wingman and
wrongfoot the full back on a 50 metre run to the line, but he was
denied a try when referee John Clayton adjudged ( from some
distance) that he had spilled the ball at the line. Undaunted
Keighley struck back, taking the lead when Asa Firth intercepted in
his own half and outpaced his pursuers for a try converted by Cox.
The
game ebbed and flowed at pace before Keighley extended their lead
after a barging run by Leigh Sugden had set up play in the visitors
22 metre area. The defenders crept offside and Cox obliged with a
well struck penalty goal.
As
half time approached the Ilkley backs again cut loose and for a
second time Beckett saved the day with another great tackle on Adiero
at the corner, before Shanks dragged a penalty goal attempt across
the post from a straightforward position.
Cox
and Shanks added penalty goals early in the second half, but neither
side was able to take control. The Keighley breakaway forwards
continued to contain the threat of the Ilkley halfbacks, but the
visitors extra share of possession stifled the home side's attacking ambitions.
Nonetheless.
a spectacular run by Firth was only checked by an equally
spectacular tackle by Shanks as the wingman dived for the line.
A
penalty goal by Shanks 15 minutes from time set up a dramatic
finale. Both sides reacted nervously, each kicking away hard won
possession, but Keighley's spirit and luck held out to secure two
vital league points.
YORK
3 KEIGHLEY 10
Keighley
produced their best display of the season in overcoming second place
York at Clifton Park. It was the host's first home defeat of
the campaign and the visitors success was thoroughly merited in an
entertaining game.
A
near gale force wind hampered both sides in the first half, Keighley
making the best of a slight advantage in this respect. Stand
off Johnny Harrison's kicking from hand regularly forced York onto
the back foot but both defences were on top and, whilst the clearer
scoring chances fell to Keighley, there was no score at half time.
Keighley's
pack had coped well with the early threat of the home forwards,
brothers Leigh and Ollie Sugden showing up well and flankers Rob
Ellis and Lee Gordon at their best . In mid- field Tim Marlow and
Morgan Bailey were solid in the tackle and wingman Matthew Cox and
Asa Firth looked sharp and effective, Cox being denied a try by a
crunching tackle by York full back Neil McClure.
York's
scoring chances were rare, Keighley full back Mark Beckett's tackle
on winger Mike Westwood snuffing out their best effort, but
Keighley's ambitions were dented early in the second half when
stand off Carl Patterson's well struck penalty goal edged York ahead.
After
resisting a brief spell of pressure by the home forwards, Keighley
settled and re-took the initiative, hard work by Evan Griffin, Leigh
Sugden & Lee Gordon forcing play to the home 22 metre area. It
was no more than they deserved when a blind side move from a scrum
led to Matthew Cox darting over for try which put the visitors ahead.
With
only 2 points separating the sides the result remained in balance,
but Keighley's forward effort led to ever increasing control of the
game as the home pack tired. York's attacks became fewer
and less potent and with 10 minutes play remaining Keighley delivered
the knock out punch. The ever resourceful Johnny Harrison's
kick to the flank was caught at pace by Asa Firth who raced over in
the corner. Only the stand-off knows whether it was a kick of
brilliant pin point accuracy or a misdirected fluke, but it took
little imagination to guess how the story unfolded over a post match beer.
Keighley's
second successive win moves them up only a single place in the
league, in which 5 points separates fourth placed Bridlington from
bottom placed Malton & Norton. It is interesting to speculate on
how things might have been if earlier close results had gone in their favour.
KEIGHLEY
24 OTLEY SARACENS 7
A
break from league rugby gave coach Jeff Inman the chance to observe
at first team level some of the brightest talent from the club's
highly successful junior ranks. He must have been delighted
with what he saw.
Stand
off Alex Brown gave a polished and confident display and whilst not
entirely new to senior rugby, centres Ben Atkinson and Liam McGee
combined well, McGee in particular handling crisply and tackling fearlessly.
Winger
James Waterhouse, another product of the colts XV, touched down for
a try within 5 minutes of coming on as a replacement and flanker
Craig Spencer's brief contribution confirmed his growing reputation.
Keighley's
pack soon gained the upper hand, but that superiority was tempered
when an Otley prop withdrew from the fray and lack of an adequate
replacement led to uncontested scrums. It is a sad reflection
of the state of the game in some quarters that a National League One
club should be so lacking at second team level.
Nonetheless
a powerful maul to the line produced a try for hooker Dave Pullen to
open Keighley's account after 10 minutes play.
A
bitingly cold wind and relentless rain made handling difficult but
the visitors' lively backs continued to play an attacking game which
was well contained by the Keighley defenders. The home try line
was, however, seldom threatened and close to half time the lead was
increased when Otley failed to clear a raking kick to the line by
Matthew Cox and wingman Asa Firth was quickly up to secure the touch down.
A
slick raid by full back Mark Beckett and Matthew Cox early in the
second half was brought back for a forward pass with the line
beckoning, but Keighley were well on top and a series of well
controlled hacks ahead by Cox produced for him the third try, which
he also converted.
A
long kick ahead once more caused confusion in the Otley defence
leading to debutant James Waterhouse following up smartly for his try
with almost his first contact with the ball, Cox adding the conversion.
With
the game effectively won Keighley's thoughts were increasingly on
the warmth and comforts of the changing room. They allowed
Otley to force play to the line, a spell of forward pressure
producing a converted consolation try for Guy Ford.
Saturday's
league fixture at Malton and Norton will be a sterner test and
with all players emerging unscathed the selectors' unusual but
difficult task will be who to omit from the line-up.
MALTON
& NORTON 17 KEIGHLEY 10
It
was a pity that this hard fought and entertaining encounter had to
be decided by a penalty try awarded by referee Nick Masheder early in
the second half after Keighley allegedly collapsed the scrum as the
home pack drove for a pushover.
Up
to this point the sides were evenly matched, although there were
increasing signs that Keighley had the ability to take the honours.
Their backs looked to have the advantage and after a shakey start the
forwards were beginning to inflluence matters, hooker Dave Pullen
taking two strikes on Malton & Norton's put in at scrums.
With
prop Ollie Sugden in the sin bin for an offside offence and captain
Rob Ellis also off the pitch, the Keighley pack was put under severe
pressure, as it was on occasions throughout the game in set pieces
and there was an air of inevitability surrounding the penalty try decision.
In
the opening minutes Keighley were shunted backwards three times
close to their line and were lucky not to concede points before they
broke out to score a try of the highest quality to take the lead
after 7 minutes play. From possession close to their line young
stand off Alex Brown had the vision and confidence to move the ball
inside. A sweeping high speed attack involving backs and forwards,
with notable contributions from scrum half Adam Balderstone and
centre Liam McGee, was checked on the home 22 metre line. The
forwards won quick possession and crisp handling allowed Ben Atkinson
to cross in the corner.
The
home side fought back strongly, taking the lead with two well
constructed tries. Firstly an overlap was created for wingman Tom
Pateman and then full back Ian Cooke crossed after a timely incursion
into the line.
Keighley's
equalising try came on the stroke of half time when a well
controlled maul to the line secured a try for second row man Michael
Feather. It was just the boost the side needed and they began the
second half strongly. The forwards had the measure of the home
pack and centres Tim Marlow & Liam McGee benefitted from the
clever distribution of stand off Alex Brown.
They
were knocked back by the penalty try award and with skipper Rob
Ellis joining Ollie Sugden in the sin bin for dangerous use of the
knee they were once more forced onto the back foot. Keighley's
spirit and guts prevailed, however, and the depleted side refused to
concede any more points.
Nonetheless
time was running out. In a desperate attempt to save the game
Keighey sought to attack from over-ambitious positions but were
checked by a determined defence. They ended the game as they had
started it, stubbornly resisting Malton & Norton's forward
assault on their line.
There
was disappointment in the Keighley ranks, but the home side just
about deserved its success. Forwards Dave Pullen, Evan Griffiths and
Leigh Sugden were the pick of the hard working pack, whilst in the
backs Alex Brown, Tim Marlow and Liam McGee all showed plenty of good
touches. All in all however, it was a sound team effort which must be
carried forward for Saturday's home meeting with Old Brodleians.
KEIGHLEY
15 OLD BRODLEIANS 9
Keighley
earned two vital league points in an undistinguished messy contest
at Utley. But such is the congestion at the foot of the table
that the manner of the victory seemed unimportant.
The
side never approached achieving the quality of rugby of which it is
capable, even allowing for a brisk wind and slippery surface.
Late enforced changes led to an unfamiliar backs line up, but even so
Keighley generally looked to have the edge on the visitors. The
forwards stamped their mark on proceedings straight from the kick
off, the Brodleians pack struggling to cope with the aggressive
Keighley scrummaging where prop Paul Sinfield in particular was in
excellent form.
Once
again stand off Alex Brown confirmed his fine potential with some
accurate line kicking and Keighley crept into an early six point lead
with two penalty goals by Matthew Cox.
They
did not, however, have things entirely their own way. Wrong option
choices and unforced errors, added to the conceding of too many
penalties, allowed Brodleians back into the game and a spell of
pressure on the Keighley line eventually led to a penalty goal by
full back Aaron Fowler.
A
good run by Matthew Cox soon regained Keighley's territorial
advantage before he extended the lead with another penalty goal.
The Utley men seemed t be edging towards a position of safety until
a snap long range drop goal by centre Andy Clay restored Brodleians
self belief. Just before half time Fowler tied the scores with a
penlty goal setting the scene for a tense second half.
The
visitors' scoring chances were few as the game continued its largely
unremarkable course, referee Foulger being the most influential
figure on the pitch. Cox's pace on the wing almost brought him a
brace of tries, one after a long touchline run and later when he
hacked on to the line but was beaten to the touchdown.
Keighley's
forwards continued to trouble the Brodleians pack but even with the
visitors second row forward Willis in the sin bin they were unable to
turn pressure into tries and had to settle for another Matthew Cox
penalty. His fifth successful kick out of six attempts sealed victory
and was fair reward for a fine personal contribution.
Apart
from Cox there were noticeable efforts by Paul Sinfield, Lee Gordon
and Alex Brown on a day when, with a little extra concentration and
luck, a more convincing victory would have been achieved from the
sides undeniable efforts.
KEIGHLEY
6 YORK 7
Keighley's
attempt to achieve the double over second placed York failed by the
narrowest of margins. Once again they were unsettled by a
mounting list of injuries, particularly in the backs, and with the
season now at the halfway stage coach Jeff Inman has still been
unable, even once, to field his strongest team.
After
a fine win at York barely a month ago Keighley started in confident
style. Their forwards initially had the edge and an early
strike against the head at a scrum enabled wingman Matthew Cox to
make good progress before being tackled 15 metres from the line.
The
challenge of the home pack subsided as the match progressed
however. They regularly surrendered possession at the rucks and
the heavier York forwards began to string together a series of
rolling mauls which the Utley men struggled to contain. After
30 minutes play a solid forward drive forced Keighley into their 22
metre area and centre Sam Arkle benefitted from quick ball to burst
through the tackle for a try converted by stand off Chris Patterson.
A
sweetly taken drop goal by 17 years old stand off Alex Brown kept
Keighley in touch by half time and they opened the second half in a
more confident mood. With skipper Rob Ellis showing glimpses of
his best form both in attack and defence, and with the forwards as a
unit regaining the initiative, running chances began to appear for
the previously under used back division.
On
another day they might easily have crossed for two or three tries,
but a combination of bad luck, a keen defence and sometimes
indifferent finishing conspired against them.
Full
back Mark Beckett's penetrating run from his own half was only
checked by a last ditch ankle tap and Matthew Cox was denied a try by
a cruel bounce after a hack and chase.
A
penalty goal by Cox reduced York's lead to single point as the game
entered into extra time and the visitors forwards were visibly tired
as Keighley pressed for the winning score. A drop goal attempt
by Alex Brown was agonisingly close and his cleverly flighted cross
kick almost created a last minute try for Asa Firth on the wing.
It
was not to be Keighley's day. Few would deny that their
efforts deserved victory and special mention should be made of
forwards Rob Ellis, Dave Pullen and Oliver Sugden and backs Mark
Beckett, Liam McGee and Alex Brown who all had fine games,
With
a gap in league rugby until a visit to Ilkley on January 6th there
is hope that some of the absentees might be restored to fitness in
readiness for for second half of the season. There is much to
play for with only 4 points separating the bottom 9 clubs in the league.
BAILDON
0 KEIGHLEY 19
Keighley
eased to a comfortable victory in their re-scheduled fixture at a
gloomy wet and windswept Baildon. They were just the conditions
in which to overcome Christmas excesses, but neither side was able to
generate sufficient passion or appetite to excite the bedraggled
spectators for more than brief moments.
From
the start there was evidence that the visitors' backs had too much
pace and know-how for the home set, but the Baildon pack often belied
its lower league ranking with some solid line out effort and sturdy
work in the loose.
It
took Keighley 25 minutes to breach the stubborn Baildon defence,
during which time Nick Lister had missed a golden opportunity to put
the home side ahead when he fluffed a straightforward penalty
attempt. A blind side move led to Keighley second row forward
Andy Bennett hitting the ball at pace for a well taken try wide out
on the right.
With
the benefit of the slope and with stand off Alex Brown pinning the
home side back with his accurate line kicking, Keighley always looked
the more likely scorers. Will Armitage impressed in the back
row on his senior side debut, with his enthusiasm and high work rate
and the forwards benefitted from the accurate line out throwing of
stand in hooker Nathan Thornton.
Pressure
eventually brought a try for wingman Asa Firth converted by Matthew
Cox after a good build up instigated by skipper Rob Ellis and shortly
before half time Ellis slipped through the defence after receiving
the ball wide out in the most unpromising of positions to grab a fine
solo try again improved by Cox.
Keighley's
interval lead of 19 points effectively ended the host's ambitions,
but they continued to harrass Keighley up front forcing them to
defend desparately for several minutes.
Whilst
their attack has struggled in recent weeks, Keighley's defence has
always been well marshalled and firm and they survived the onslought
to finish strongly in the deteriorating conditions.
Prop
Paul Sinfield's 20 metre touchline rumble from a set piece line out
was halted 1 metre out and wingman James Tillotson had some noteable
movements which deserved better reward.
Generally,
however, there was little sign of any break in the second half
stalemate and full time arrived without any further score and to the
relief of players and spectators alike.
It
had been a worthwhile exercise for both sides in preparation for
much more meaningful games at the weekend.
ILKLEY
19 KEIGHLEY 0
Ilkley
avenged a defeat at Utley in November with a well deserved victory
on home soil.
The
game lacked none of the committment and passion traditionally
associated with this local derby, even though by half time there was
an increasing sense of inevitability over the result.
The
Ilkley success was built around a dominant effort by its pack.
The Keighley forwards, missing three key players, were never allowed
to settle, even though they displayed an abundance of honest hard
work. Second row man Rob Clark enjoyed his best outing of the
season both in defence and with ball in hand and was ably supported
by Ollie Sugden, Evan Griffin and Lee Gordon. They were as a
unit, however, unable to match the power of the Ilkley eight for whom
hooker Mark Luffman and second row David Wright provided a solid and
competative platform.
Not
that Keighley did not have their chances. They could easily have
been ahead at half time. Wingman Matthew Cox fluffed a simple penalty
goal chance in the 3rd minute and a stunning break from halfway by
full back Mark Beckett was halted almost at the line. Soon
afterwards hooker Nathan Thornton was hauled down just short.
In
the meantime Ilkley had claimed the only points of the first half
when Luffman was bundled over for a try, converted by Jack Shaylor,
from a 5 metre line out whilst Keighley flanker Lee Gordon was
sitting out a 10 minute spell in the sin bin.
Keighley's
second half chances were few as Ilkley tightened their grip.
They increased the lead when the ball was worked to wingman Simon
Smith whose strength and pace allowed him to cross for a try and they
eventually sealed victory with a try by replacement Tim Rawlings who
took advantage of a confused Keighley defence to score wide on the
right with Shaylor converting.
The
defeat pushes Keighley deeper into the relegation dog fight, but
with several injured players close to returning and spirits remaining
high, there is every prospect of a better run of results in the near future.
BRIDLINGTON
6 KEIGHLEY 17
After
an early season success at Scarborough, Keighley returned to the
East coast to record a vital win over Bridlington.
Initially
the omens were not good when the side, lacking three or four key
players, quickly conceded two penalty goals by New Zealander and
skipper Jamie Muru to give Bridlington a 6 point lead. In
amongst Keighley full back Matthew Cox had failed with two difficult
attempts, but from the start Keighley's young backs looked sharp and
eager and soon put the home side's rather pedestrian three quarters
under pressure.
With
back row men Nathan Thornton, skipper Rob Ellis and Leigh Sugden in
aggressive form potential match winner Muru was virtually eliminated
from the game as an attacking force although he regularly made good
ground with some raking touch finding kicks. By contrast
Keighley half backs Kevin Bottomley and Alex Brown were precise and
creative, allowing centres Chris Meehan and Liam McGee to operate
smoothly and confidently in midfield.
A
sweeping attack by the backs should have brought the first try after
15 minutes play, but a moments hesitation by young winger Ben
Atkinson was enough for the cover defence to snuff out the chance.
Keighley were not to be denied,however, and when Meehan was
obstructed in pursuit of his own chip through, London referee Jones
had no hesitation in awarding a penalty try, converted by Meehan, and
at the same time ordering the perpetrator to the sin bin.
It
was just the boost that Keighley needed. The backs continued to run
and pass with style before a 40 metre crossfield dash by flanker
Ellis brought the best out of a stretched defence. The ball was
quickly re-cycled and another slick attack led to Cox slipping into
the line and wrong footing home full back Robinson for a fine try
again converted by Meehan. A penalty goal by Meehan gave
Keighley a comfortable half time lead of 17 points to 6 which they
were determined not to squander.
For
a time, however, the home forwards began to threaten with some
powerful rolling mauls, but without ever seriously challenging the
visitor's try line. The Keighley forwards dug deep into their
reserves, with Rob Ellis, Nathan Thornton and Andy Bennett in
particular continuing their impressive form, and with Rob
Clarke and Leigh Sugden excelling in the line outs.
As
the game wore on it develloped increasingly into a war of attrition
with defences on top. The introduction of Paul Sinfield & Peter
Schofield added bulk to the pack & sapped the strength of the
Bridlington forwards. Keighley's stubborn defence was turned into
attack with Schofield being held close to the line. Generally,
however, Keighley were content to sit on their lead to record perhaps
their best win of the season and to ease their relegation worries.
In
an all round team performance special mention should be made of
forwards Rob Ellis & Andy Bennett whilst the pick of an
impressive back line was Chris Meehan, Alex Brown and Liam
McGee. The team will now be in good heart for the visit to
Utley on Saturday of Bradford Salem who are enjoying an extremely
successful season but will remember how lucky they were to claim the
points at Heaton in October.
KEIGHLEY
21 BRADFORD SALEM 15
Two
brilliantly taken second half tries by wingman Matthew Cox secured
vital league points against high flying Bradford Salem.
Keighley's
backs always had the edge. Scrum half Kevin Bottomley shrugged off
the years with a vintage display, constantly alert around the scrum
in attack and tenacious in defence. His experience and that of
inside centre Chris Meehan were the defining influences on an
absorbing match, notwthstanding the invaluable contribution of
Matthew Cox and the courage and flair of full back Mark Beckett.
In
the forwards skipper Rob Ellis again led by example and was well
supported by prop Evan Griffin and second row man Rob Clarke.
Crucially, however, it was the whole side's team spirit and
commitment which prevailed. There is currently a collective will to
win and stubbornness which almost inevitably on its day heralds success.
The
clearest first half chances fell to Keighley, but they had to be
content at the break with single point lead by courtesy of a brace of
penalty goals by Chris Meehan against a try by Salem flanker Steve
Cowman who was bundled over from a 5 metre line out by his heavier
forwards whilst Keighley hooker Dave Pullen served a spell in the sin
bin for a technical offence at a maul.
With
Kevin Bottomley and the Keighley back row keeping a tight rein on
Salem's potentially threatening half backs, the Utley men began the
second half strongly, soon increasing their lead with a third penalty
goal by Meehan.
The
Salem forwards continued to look dangerous close to the line and
Keighley were forced to defend resolutely against their powerful
rolling mauls. The ball was eventually moved wide and full back
Richard Langhorn stretched over for a try which put his side ahead
for the first time.
Keighley
struck back in style, Cox beating 3 defenders to score wide out to
restore the lead, but it was short lived when, with Pullen in the sin
bin for a second time, the Salem pack steam rollered over the line
with hooker Simon Markey claiming the touchdown.
With
full time approaching and a man down, the odds were stacked against
a Keighley come bck. Replacement hooker Nathan Thornton began an
attack inside the Keighley half, Kevin Bottomley and Mark Beckett
continued the move and a clever miss pass by Chris Meehan gave
Matthew Cox a glimpse of the line. With his way seemingly blocked he
skipped through the cover defence for a top class try, expertly
converted by Meehan to win the game.
Victory
was sweet and throughly deserved.
WHEATLEY
HILLS 6 KEIGHLEY 21
Keighley's
superior pace & stamina prevailed in a tough contest. For
almost 60 minutes the Doncaster side belied its bottom place in the
league, its combative forwards testing the visitors to the full.
The
scores were tied at six points each at half time, Keighley full back
Matthew Cox having landed an early penalty goal & stand off Alex
Brown adding a well taken drop goal late on. In between home stand
off Ian Barker was successful with two penalty goal attempts.
It
was a fair reflection of the first half play. Keighley's backs
looked the sharper with Cox constantly on the look out for an
attacking chance. The forwards were more evenly matched in spite of
the considerable workload of Ollie & Leigh Sugden and Rob Clarke
and the energy of acting skipper Lee Gordon.Try scoring chances were
few, the clearest falling to Wheatley Hills' No. 6 Burns whose
powerful run took him over the line where Keighley's rearguard
defence somehow prevented him from grounding the ball.
The
second half began in similar fashion to the first, Cox regaining the
lead with another penalty goal. Gradually, however, there were
increasing signs that the home side's ageing forwards were tiring.
Keighley impressed with some solid driving mauls and aggressive
rucking, allowing their backs to move with more and more confidence.
Scrum half Kevin Bottomley revelled in the close combat, stand off
Alex Brown was calm & assured and centres Tim Marlow & Mark
Beckett combined well in attack and defence.
The
breakthrough finally came midway through the half when the Keighley
pack turned over possession on the halfway line. Marlow's break was
continued by Beckett and somehow Marlow was again up in support to
take the pass before a 30 metre sprint to the line.
The
home side's spirit was broken and a few minutes later good work by
Ollie Sugden set up an attacking platform close to Wheatley Hills
line, from which quick possession led to Mark Beckett crossing
unopposed with Cox converting.
As
full time approached the tactics of the home side's uncompromising
forwards became progressively less subtle, but Keighley held their
nerve to record their third successive win which consolidates
their mid table position.
KEIGHLEY
3 SCARBOROUGH 7
An
efficient Scarborough side did just about enough to earn the honours
in an entertaining game at Utley. It followed a familiar
pattern for Keighley's season. Passages of determined and often
exhilarating play several times took them to within sight of the line
but they were unable to press home their chances.
Keighley's
chief tormentor was flanker Junior Tupai, one of a handful of
Antipodeans in the side, whose pace and versatility were a regular
threat. His influence for the visitors was, however, no greater than
that for Keighley of skipper Ron Ellis, who was equally devastating
both in attack and defence.
Given
the pace and enterprise shown by the two sides, it was surprising
that, at the break, the only points had come from a 40 metre penalty
goal by Keighley full back Matthew Cox. Centre Mark Beckett and
wingman Ben Atkinson had shown some useful touches and scrum half
Kevin Bottomley continued his good form. Defences prevailed,
however, Rob Ellis and No. 8 Leigh Sugden setting up Keighley's best
chances and Scarborough centre Hillier's midfield break only being
checked close to the line by the cover tacklers.
The
decisive score came fifteen minutes into the second half.
After play had been driven to the home five metre line from a penalty
kick, Scarborough secured good ball from the throw in and a long miss
pass found Tupai lurking wide out. He had the space and speed
to skip past the defenders for a well taken try converted by centre
Marcus Edwards.
Keighley
had their opportunities to recover the lead. A break by Ellis was
halted five metres out and solid work by the forwards deserved better
reward as they pressed on the line for several minutes. The
visitor's organisation was equal to anything Keighley could offer and
the elusive score was denied them.
Alongside
Rob Ellis' outstanding performance there were telling contributions
by Mark Beckett, Kevin Bottomley & Ben Atkinson in the backs and
in a hard working pack Andy Bennett & Leigh Sugden regularly
caught the eye.
Keighley
must now regroup for Saturday's vital trip to Sandal in the
knowledge that defeat will again drop them close to the relegation zone.
SANDAL
27 KEIGHLEY 11
A
strangely out of sorts Keighey side was well beaten at Sandal.
Injuries and unavailablities robbed them of a number of backs, but
this did not account for the lack lustre performance of the side in
general and of the forwards in particular.
Within
30 seconds they fell behind to a try by Simon Frewin converted
by stand off Tom Smith after they lost possession from the kick off
and two quick passes left the wingman with little to do but touch
down. It was Keighley's inability to protect the ball which
contributed significantly to their downfall. Too often Sandal turned
over possession in the rucks or Keighley lost the ball in
contact. If the home side's backs and goal kicker had taken
advantage of their chances the score would have been much higher.
The
visitors did have their creative moments, young wingers Ben
Atkinson & Danny Lester on his debut, each being tackled into a
corner flag, the latter after a sharp touchline run. Asa Firth,
playing in the unaccustomed position of centre once or twice escaped
from his marker and full back Matthew Cox and centre Mark Beckett
were ever alert for running opportunities.
For
much of the game the forwards toiled without obvious shape or
purpose and after 20 minutes play the Sandal pack mauled its way over
the try line from a 5 metre line out. As usual Leigh Sugden
played with tremendous heart and was ably supported by Rob Ellis and
Andy Bennett, but generally there was little cohesion up front.
Nonetheless at half time Keighley still had a firmish grip on
Sandal's coat tails after two penalty goals by Matthew Cox had
reduced the deficit to 6 points.
With
the advantage of the slope in the second half there was an air of
optimism among the Keighley supporters, but this was soon dispelled
when Frewin was on the end of a cross field move to touch down again
in the corner. Soon afterwards prop Rob Norbury plunged over
from close range and the contest effectively was over. Scrum
half Max Whittingham completed Sandal's scoring with his side's 5th try.
Keighley
saved their best until last, dominating the later stages and
illustrating how different things might have been if they had started
as they finished. A break by Rob Ellis set up a try by
Matthew Cox but time was running out even before referee Hatim
Tall called an early end to the proceedings following what appeared
to be a frightening neck injury to Mark Beckett. To everyone's
intense relief he was released from hospital later in the evening
after the damage was diagnosed as severe bruising and ligament strain.
KEIGHLEY
7 WHARFEDALE FORRESTERS 42
Wharfedale's
strong second XV had too much pace and knowledge for an
understrength Keighley side. Within the space of 20 minutes
they had swept into a 28 point lead through tries by flankers
Hargreaves and Warein and backs Longdtaff & Davies, all converted
by full back Davies.
A
shell shocked Keighley initially contributed to its own downfall
with some flimsy tackling, but the ship was steadied and for the next
40 minutes the game was evenly contested.
The
Keighley pack generally matched the visitors up front in a game
played at a faster pace than that to which the home side was
accustomed. Rob Clarke & Andy Bennett were constantly in
the thick of the action and later in the game there were sound
contributions from replacements Richard Leach & Peter
Schofield. For the backs it was largely a chasing game as the
visitors displayed their impressive talents orchestrated by the
experienced Andy Hodgson & Jonathan Davies.
Keighley's
running chances were few, wingman James Tillotson coming closest to
a try when he was bundled into touch at the corner flag after an
elusive run. Their improved defence, with centre Nigel Curr
prominent, denied Wharfedale any further first half points and it was
not until the final 20 minutes that they were able to add to their
lead when centre Walker and former Keighley winger Ryan Gill found
their way to the line. Davies completed a 100 % success rate
with 2 more conversions.
Keighley's
determined forward effort finally brought its reward when fittingly
Rob |Clarke barged over for his first try at senior level with
Matthew Cox converting. They were later denied another score
when, after a prolonged assault on the line, Peter Schofield crossed
but was unable to ground the ball.
Coach
Jeff Inman will be hoping for the return of several missing players
for Saturday's home meeting with league leaders Pontefract. Two
points from the last 3 matches should ensure safety from relegation.
KEIGHLEY
3 PONTEFRACT 10
Promotion
favourites Pontefract were tested to the full in a close game at
Utley before notching the victory which re-instated them at the top
of the table through a second half try by skipper and full back Simon Spears.
Keighley
had the better of the first half, both territorially and in the
quality of play. Their ball retention was much improved and
even though the line out did not always function efficiently there
was a keenness & competitiveness amongst the forwards which
troubled the visitors throughout the game.
There
were no points on the board at half time but Keighley in particular
had their chances. Matthew Cox was unlucky when the ball
blew over as he was about to make contact with a penalty kick at goal
and stand off Alex Brown was narrowly wide with a drop goal
attempt. Pontefract seldom threatened the Keighley line in the
face of some determined tackling but Keighley's best chance came when
no 8 Leigh Sugden stormed through the visitors ranks with a 30 metre
run before handing on to flanker Lee Gordon who was tackled almost at
the line.
Little
was seen of either set of backs in attack. Defences were very
much on top, until 10 minutes into the second half when for the first
and only time the Pontefract mid field runners slipped their
strangely reluctant markers and Spears crossed for the decisive try
with stand off Andy Dean converting.
A
penalty goal by Matthew Cox reduced the lead, but Pontefract upped
their game to keep a tighter control over affairs. Scrum half
Kevin Bottomley and full back Cox tried hard to find gaps in the
visitor's defence and a sharp break by wingman Asa Firth could well
have brought a try but his pass to the support failed to go to hand.
It
was to be Keighley's last opportunity. Dean's second penalty
goal increased the lead and even though Keighley's efforts continued
unabated until the end they were unable to close the gap.
Matthew
Cox & Kevin Bottomley were the pick of the Keighley backs and in
the forwards Leigh Sugden was as usual a tower of strength and was
well supported by brother Ollie, prop Evan Griffin and second row man
Rob Clarke.
Keighley's
disappointment in defeat was tempered by the news that fellow
strugglers Old Brodleians, their next league opponents, had also
lost, thereby guaranteeing Keighley's survival in Yorkshire League 1
for next season.
OLD
BRODLEIANS 14 KEIGHLEY 7
There
was something of an "end of term" attitude in the Keighley
ranks as they contrived to lose a game which they ought to have had
wrapped up before half time.
They
began in convincing style. Playing up the notorious Hipperholme
slope they initially rattled the home side with some aggresive and
punishing play. Centre Tim Marlow and scrum half Kevin
Bottomley were particularly prominent and such was Keighley's
ascendancy that it was all of 20 minutes before Brodleians set foot
in the Keighley half.
As
so often the case this season, however, Keighley were unable to turn
pressure into points. A strong crossfield wind made passing
difficult, but this only partly accounted for the abundance of
dropped passes and other unforced errors. The failure to put points
on the board seemed to deflate confidence and at the same time
increase Brodleians self belief. The home backs began to move
the ball more and more efficiently and in spite of Keighley's
generally sound defence a breakaway move led to a try by home full
back Jackson converted by wingman Cavalier 5 minutes before half time.
Keighley
began the second half in more determined mood. A break by Kevin
Bottomley was supported by skipper Rob Ellis who made good ground
before being tackled into touch. They continued to press and a
clever pass by Michael Feather provided the opening for centre Matt
Gaffney to force his way over with Mark Beckett's skillfully
controlled conversion tying the scores.
This
should have provided the motivation for Keighley to take control,
but they failed to do so. Second row man Michael Feather
continued to win good line out ball and forwards Dave Pullen, Rob
Ellis & Leigh Sugden strove manfully to keep them in the game,
Sugden in particular running powerfully at the defence on several occasions.
There was, alas, little cohesion in the Keighley side. The
Brodleians' backs were sharper in attack and Keighley failed to
exploit the slope properly.
It
was no real surprise when, from a scrum on the Keighley 22 metre
line the impressive Jackson cut through with ease for the match
winning try converted again by Cavalier.
The
introduction of young scrum half Danny Lester added a belated spark
to the ponderous Keighley side, but generally they lacked the
organisation and flair to overcome a spirited Brodleians outfit which
adapted better on the day to the tricky conditions.
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