Keighley 22 West Leeds 17
Report by Sam Griffin
This game was a distinct contrast to the pervious weeks performance. It was a entertaining game of quality rugby, the result could have gone either way. The game started at a hectic pace, both teams were from the outset committed to open fast moving play. Keighley were first on the scoreboard, excellent forward drives from line out possession gave hooker Shaun Minikin the opportunity to drive over to score, Fin Meegan added the conversion. Leeds soon came back into the game, their forwards were intent on close support driving play down the middle of the field before releasing quick ball to their superb outside half Keir Breakwell who marshalled their attacking structure. The Keighley defence knew what to expect and were totally resolute in closing down some promising West Leeds attacking play. Eventually some hard work from the Leeds forwards gave Breakwell his opportunity to move the ball wide into space and a well worked try for centre Sam Neave. A little later Keighley were awarded a long distance penalty that Meegan did well to convert. Keighley with their back row of Lacey, Whyte and Kemp in superb form were strong in all phases of play especially the scrum. The young half-backs Pullen and Hartley really grew into the game, outside half Charlie Hartley took an advantage of a gap in defence in midfield, his break was well supported by athletic second row Jordan Yaxley who scored under the posts, Meegan added the extra points.

The second half was equally entertaining, West Leeds still committed to using their pace out wide exerted pressure, A well timed break out of defence by outside half Breakwell gave experienced centre Neave the chance put winger Elliot Jackson in at the corner. An infringement in midfield led to a yellow card for influential centre Sean Kelly. Keighley determined to retain possession used their forwards to full advantage, some excellent driving play from the breakdowns and scrum gave outstanding wing forward Kemp the chance to break down field, after a period of time camped on the opposition line the ball was moved wide and into the hands of super sub Lucas Uren who used his strength and experience to score in the corner. Towards the end of the game Leeds put some good moves together, quick ball gave speedy centre Neave the opportunity he needed and a try under the posts. With the extra points for the conversion, the final result was still in doubt. With experienced outside half Brown replacing the injured Hartley Keighley held out until the final whistle. Next week Keighley are on the road again, away to Beverley.