Leigh Academy 46 Cougar Academy 18 - Cougars were on the back foot from the opening whistle as Leigh came at them with pace and power.

Finding space down the flanks, Leigh were 16-0 up after just 15 minutes. The Keighley youngsters steadied the ship until just before half time when they lost influential hooker John Carter and prop Rob Grey, who were both badly injured, resulting in a half time score of 26-0.

The second half was a revelation as the Cougars came out charged up. A try to Andy Feather, converted by Ally Beaumont, was followed up immediately be another try to Tom Kenna converted by Peter Hilliam.

Leigh hit back, but to their credit cougars kept up the pressure with a third try scored by Gary McLelland, converted by Beaumont.

Some atrocious refereeing, which contributed to Leigh scoring three times in the last 10 minutes, spoiled a marvellous second half performance.

The Academy were well led by skipper Matty Steel with another towering performance by Scott Bellamy.

n The last game of the initial Grading League is on Saturday at 4.30 when the game will be the finale to a day of sporting action including the Keighley Cup junior rugby league festival which starts at 10am.