Keighley 9 Pocklington 17

Newly promoted Pocklington showed their intent from the off, taking play deep into Keighley territory. Although they were strong and aggressive in broken play they were unable to break through a well marshalled defence. Some fine work from Keighley’s Scott Dyson and Marco Ferrazzano made good ground and gained a penalty that full back Danny McGee converted.

Unfortunately for Keighley a few minutes later a shoulder charge tackle led to a red card for one of the Keighley back line. Pocklington returned to their driving play which led to a try for Jack Holborough. Just before the half time whistle Keighley regained their lead with a long range penalty kick from McGee.

From the restart Pocklington were determined to make their numerical advantage pay. Strong forward drives kept Keighley pinned in their own half. The pressure told with a try for Charlie Allen that was converted by Nick Bennett. Keighley rallied, and some fine line breaking runs by Marco Ferrazzano put Pocklington under pressure. However, the big centre’s runs were never supported quickly enough, which gave the opposition time to reorganise their defence.

Keighley were under constant pressure for extended periods, an excellent break out of defence by mobile prop Craig Spencer drove play into Pocklington territory, although Keighley were unlucky not to cross the whitewash they earned a penalty that McGee duly kicked. Pocklington responded, an attack down the wing and aggressive breakdown play gave number eight Rob Kinnell the chance to drive around the blind side to score in the corner.

With minutes remaining Keighley made a final effort, some impressive handling at speed from debutant second row Josh Hannah and hooker Will Armitage took play to the opposition line, although Keighley managed to maintain the pressure they were unable to break a solid defence.

In retrospect, a good performance from Keighley, however, losing a man early in the game severely compromised their chances of gaining the league points. This Saturday the 1st XV are away to Ilkley, kick off 3pm.