The key to Beverley’s success was its quick and skilful back division, the starting line up of which (including replacements) contained a Slovenian international and 5 southern hemisphere players.
Notwithstanding a formidable home front row, the two packs were more evenly matched, in spite of the absence through injury of Keighley’s key men Leigh Sugden and Scott Dyson. No 8 Ashley Waligura, second row David Iliff, flanker Sean Minikin and replacement prop Ollie Sugden all impressed as the pack as a whole refused to take a backward step, although sometimes conceding possession through careless lineout play and ball retention at the rucks.
The home spectators were shocked into silence when, after five minutes play, Keighley took the lead. A break at centre by Ben Blackwell was supported by full back Danny McGee whose deft kick through was touched down by winger Harry Titley, with Blackwell adding the conversion.
Beverley were stung into action and quick possession from a 5 metre line out brought a try for wingman Goran Jelencic.
Keighley were, at this stage, still well in the game and could easily have increased their lead when hooker Will Armitage intercepted deep in his own half before being overhauled 10 metres from the line. The home backs were, however, looking increasingly threatening, in spite of the close marking of the Keighley defence, and on the half hour took the lead through a try by wingman Lee Birch converted by stand off Phil Duboulay. A long range penalty goal by Blackwell reduced the arrears but Beverley stretched further ahead close to half time with a second Jelencic try.