Keighley produced an encouraging performance against a strong Wharfedale side in a game played over four quarters, eventually going down 7–14.

Wharfedale started the stronger and scored the only try of the opening quarter, with Keighley taking time to settle after starting with a relatively inexperienced combination.

Keighley improved considerably in the second quarter, enjoying the majority of possession and putting the Wharfedale defence under sustained pressure. That pressure eventually told when Gibson reacted quickly from a tap-and-go penalty and powered over for Keighley’s try, converted by Megan to level the scores.

The third quarter developed into more of a stalemate. Both teams had opportunities, but neither was able to add to the score. Keighley’s scrum performed well, although there remains work to do around the lineout, set-piece execution and kicking game.

The final quarter provided a particularly tough test, with Wharfedale fielding a side made up predominantly of National 2 players, including several Yorkshire players. Despite the significant step up in opposition, Keighley continued to compete and work hard, with Wharfedale eventually adding the final try to make the final score 7–14.

There were lots of positives for the Stags, with a number of players stepping up extremely well against quality opposition. The physicality, work rate and willingness to compete were particularly encouraging, with several players putting in strong performances and showing the strength and depth developing within the squad.

Overall, it was a very positive exercise for a mixed 1st XV and Stags squad. There are areas to work on, but plenty of positives to take from pushing strong opposition all the way.

The 1st XV now move on to Baildon on 10 September, while the Stags continue their preparations against Halifax on 12 September.