Keighley remain 2nd in Yorkshire 2 after hard fought win at Knottingley.

Knottingley 7 Keighley 22

Keighley had their work cut out to overcoming a determined Knottingley team. Although the visitors started very well, going through the phases and taking play deep into opposition territory they were unable to break through a strong defence. Their only reward from territorial domination was a penalty by Alex Brown. After weathering the early storm Knottingley through the efforts of their forwards well marshalled by scrum half Steven Seed gained good possession. However, they were unable to gain decent field positions which resulted in a change of strategy and some tactical kicking from outside half Jamie Milton. The Keighley defence uncharacteristically had some difficulty coping with the high ball being far too prone to mishandling or kicking aimlessly. The Knottingly kicking game paid dividends when a fumble in defence gave winger Louis Tucker the chance to snatch possession and a try under the posts, full back Benny Tucker added the conversion. Although Keighley worked hard to regain the lead Knottingley’s defence held firm.

In the second half Knottingley from the restart put Keighley under severe pressure but their efforts went unrewarded due to good defence, with captain Will Armitage and Shaun Minikin leading by example. Keighley slowly but surely used the forwards and backs to move the ball around forcing play deep into opposition territory. Unfortunately the good work was undone through enforced errors. Although Keighley were winning the territorial battle they at times looked aimless. The situation changed when centre Ben Blackwell used his considerable strength to drive through the defensive line taking out at least three defenders. The forwards quickly recycled the ball and centre Adam Horsfall was instinctively on hand to take the final pass and a try, which Brown converted. Knottingly upped their efforts but were unable to break through, Keighley held firm and realising that the opposition were tiring gave the game more width, which resulted in some good half breaks from centres Horsfall and Blackwell. The Knottingly defence forced to compress to deal with the threat in midfield gave winger Luke Carter the opportunity to carve his way across field and find Alex Brown in support and a second try. The final try was also a result of good wide play, winger Liam Everett received early ball and was able to break up field, which gave space on the inside, Alex Brown once again in close support was able to cross in the corner, full back Olly Mitchell added the wide angled conversion.

This Saturday another difficult game at home to Wath upon Dearne. The seconds are away to Old Brodlians 2nds and the Academy take on Huddersfield 3rds.