Huddersfield U10s 5 Keighley U10s 10 (at Old Brodleians RUFC)

Initial fears about their cohesion and attitude were allayed quickly as they set about marking their mark against a very well drilled and skilful Huddersfield team who had earlier beaten the hosts, Old Brodleians. From the first whistle the tackling was ferocious; Samuel Grant, Robert Paul, Harry Gallagher and Harvey Kemp in particular working hard in the loose to thwart attacks and turn the ball over. Solid scrummaging and line outs aided the cause whilst the team displayed a direct approach going forward. The game plan of keeping things tight paid off but the players were still able to offload and release the ball in the tackle. At all opportunities the players went forward, rucking over the ball on the floor and supporting the first man at the maul. This persistence led to their first try through awareness at the line by Archie Mowle. At this stage the team could have been ahead by more, having crossed the line at least three times, but upright running prevented them from grounding the ball. This is an element for all to work on. Ryan Gibson extended the lead, driving over the line and this lead to a superb defensive effort. Even as the team lost their shape and plan a little in the second half, their determination held out for their first win of the New Year.

Duncan Grant