Heroics not enough!

Fielding a severely depleted squad due to conflicting commitments Keighley U12s took to the field for only their second competitive encounter of the season. The challenge was always going to be a major ask of them, playing in a 5 way tournament situation and facing stern opposition. As if the task ahead wasn’t enough, until half way through their penultimate match they were only able to field 11 players in a 13 a side game.
Undaunted the Keighley side gave all they had. Their new recruits of Jacob Rankin, Fin Meegan, Jordan Yaxley and Robbie Payne led by example as defence held firm and ambition won out as they defeated Bradford and Bingley by 21 points to 12 in a mammoth game.
Their next game saw another gallant effort but the excessively sloping pitch proved their undoing against the unbeaten winners, Old Rishworthians, losing 7-28.
In their third match Aireborough proved to be tough opposition, running at every opportunity. After conceding 2 early tries the Keighley side re-gathered themselves and hit back, only losing narrowly by the odd try 7-14.
The final game saw a full side, at last. New blood Lewis Clegg impressed with his determination and energy as the resurgent red and greens simply overpowered their opponents, the hosts Baildon. They attacked at every opportunity and at last the back line showed their class with decisive running plays. The only disappointing note was the conceding of a final minute try as complacency set in. But this only dented the final score of 28-7.
Liam Brookes was faultless with his kicking, scoring 18 points in total. Archie Mowle bagged a brace whilst Samuel Grant scored in every game of the tournament.
Positivity was the key word in the success of the team on the day. Pride, determination and stamina played huge parts in securing a bright future season ahead as the rainy, Baildon weather was lit up by a heroic effort by all.