Keighley 42

York RI 10

Keighley's forth consecutive win brought some late Christmas cheer to their shivering supporters and hoisted them into fifth place in the league.

That the game took place was a credit to the loyal group of officials and members who toiled though the morning to make the snow covered pitch playable.

Both teams responded by producing some stylish open rugby despite the freezing conditions, and whilst from the early stages Keighley's overall superiority hinted at the inevitability of the final result, there was still plenty of spirit and effort in the visitor's ranks at the final whistle.

The fast improving Leigh Sugden opened the scoring for Keighley when he charged through a scattered defence for a try after 10 minutes play following a penetrating run by centre Danny McGee which set up a ruck 15 metres from the York line. Johnny Harrison's conversion was the precursor of three penalty goals in quick succession as he maintained his recent place kicking form.

York's scoring chances were few and far between as Keighley showed why they have the best defensive record in the league and play was largely confined to the visitor's half of the field.

Flanker Lee Gordon's angled run almost brought him a try but he spilled the ball at the line as Keighley's pressure began to tell. York were unable to clear the danger and as half time approached scrum half James Kubran picked up from a ruck 20 metres out and darted over for a well earned try which Harrison converted.

With a lead of 23 points the game effectively was won, but Keighley were soon on the attack as the second half began. A forward drive of some 30 metres was finally checked but the backs were quickly released and slick handling led to Danny McGee touching down wide out with Harrison landing an excellent conversion.

York responded with some determined play, inspired by No.8 forward Smith and as Keighley's grip on the game was temporarily relaxed, wingman Peter Carr finished off a sweeping attack with a well taken try.

With lock forward Peter Southgate showing a return to his old form, Keighley struck back quickly. Southgate's powerful run paved the way for full back Warren Knowles to expertly weave his way to the line for the fourth try with Harrison again adding the extra points.

Once more York picked up their game and centre Ericson Atkins, showing a glimpse of the style that brought him county honours earlier in his rugby career whilst at Harrogate, eased in for a try to raise his sides spirits.

There was however, still time for Keighley to underline their superiority and with the final attack of the game, a clever chip through by centre Martin Harrison was snapped up by wingman Kevin Young who touched down in the corner.

With the league campaign having only reached the half way stage, promotion for the improving Keighley side is still a possibility. The forwards, whilst often conceding an advantage in weight and height, have developed into a more than useful force and the backs o their day are capable of opening up the tightest of defences. The second team is enjoying its most successful run for many seasons and competition for places in the senior side is keen.

The next home game is scheduled for January 12th and it is hoped that a large number of supporters will attend to give the side the encouragement it deserves. Uncommitted lovers of rugby of either code might learn to enjoy it.