Keighley Academy 39-31 Halifax Dukes

It's always nip and tuck getting 3 sides out on the first Saturday of the season but Keighley RUFC managed with a couple to spare, one of whom was given to Halifax to even the numbers and allow for contested scrums.

The game started evenly with both sides looking to run the ball as much as possible. Good defensive play from both sides kept it tight for the first 10 minutes, the Keighley forwards retaining the ball well and the pacy backs looking keen to test at every opportunity.

Good forward play on the halfway line gave the backs quick ball, a break by impressive centre Jordan Turner was quickly recycled and reached last seasons stalwart of the year Darren Cooley who strongly touched down in the corner to open the scoring.

17 year old Tom Stell making his senior and KRUFC debut on the left wing after a bad shoulder dislocation delayed his start at the end of last season missed his difficult goal kick wide out but wasn't to be held out long when a few minutes later was given an early ball in space and skilfully beat his man to then race away under the sticks for his debut try followed by his debut goal kick. Hugh Peterken then retired with a shoulder injury that will hopefully keep him out for only one week.

Keighley though were now well on top and kept the pressure on with another try coming from old head Mark Symes. To their credit Halifax kept on working hard , their young backs always dangerous then getting their much deserved reward with a score in the corner.
Keighley weren't going to let that spoil the day and Jordan Turner made and then was on the end to finish a good move on half time to make it 22-5.

Keighley continued to run the game with tries from Chris Hextall, another from Tom Stell and a length of the field effort from Jim Atkinson converted by playing coach Mick Philips. 39-5 with 20 minutes to go, game over? Not a chance!

This Halifax side didn't know when to give up and as Keighley tired Halifax grew. 4 tries, one with the very last play brought the score too close to 39-31 to end what was a cracking 1st outing. The better side snuck the win but real credit to the Halifax lads.

For Keighley a winning start and lots of positives. Work to do fitness wise and hopefully most will be down training in the coming weeks to aid that.

Match Report by Loz Marklew