Ilkley 2nd XV 21 Keighley 2nd XV 16 - Holders Ilkley overcame a spirited second half revival by Keighley to progress to the second round of the Skipton Properties Aire-Wharfe Cup.

Keighley's much changed pack contested well thoughout. The ageless John Duffy and Peter Southgate held together a young by enthusiastic Keighley eight also containing second row man Richard Leach on his first game back from injury. The pick of the forwards on the night was flanker Stuart Inman whose line out play and defence were exemplary.

With the help of a stiff breeze Ilkley applied the early pressure and were rewarded with a try by wingman Brendan Kelly after 10 minutes play. Almost immediately Keighley struck back with an excellent try by Mark Beckett after a skilful switch move in mid field, John Harrison's conversion edging Keighley ahead. A penalty goal by Harrison increased the lead, but before half time two penalty goals by Kelly re-established the home side's lead.

Two tries in rapid succession early in the second half by Ilkley wingman Chris Wetherby stretched the lead to eleven points before Keighley launched a comeback. Several times they threatened to break the solid home defence, but poor handling let them down. Two penalty goals by Harrison set up a tense finale, but Ilkley held out to set up a home tie in the next round against Roundhegians 1st XV.