Liversedge 13

Silsden Park Rangers 26

Silsden Park Rangers stayed on course for the division four title with victory at Liversedge.

This game looked a potential banana-skin for long periods and it was the home side who took the early lead by scoring in the right hand corner. Silsden were soon attacking down the other end of the field and were rewarded when John Williams kicked a penalty goal after the home side was penalised for a high tackle.

Williams and Shaun Cooper combined to send in rampaging centre Phil Lane for his first try by the side of the posts to give Silsden an 8-4 lead. There was a welcome return to the side for prop-forward Mark Stott who kept the huge Liversedge pack at bay with strong tackles.

The flair of John Williams from deep in Silsden territory created the next try for Wayne McCombe with a superbly weighted pass. McCombe then ran 70 yards to score under the posts. Williams again converted and the cobbydalers were well worth a 14-4 lead at half time.

Early in the second period Rangers looked a little over confident as Liversedge clawed their way back into the match with a try and a penalty goal. A drop goal followed and suddenly things did not look as rosy for Rangers as the lead was cut to 14-13.

Player coach Tony Williams rallied his troops and led by the eager Dean Farrell Silsden made sure of the points with a late surge.

The Rangers backline started to cause the Liversedge forwards problems, notably fullback Ian Robinson and centre Phil Lane. It was Lane who scored next showing what strength he has by forcing his way over close to the line. Williams converted and Silsden had a seven point cushion.

Rangers still had to work hard and forwards Rick Greenwood and Mark Kent set a platform for Silsden to finish strongly. Rob Bailey crashed over for the clinching try five minutes from time. Williams added a penalty goal to make the final score 26-13.

n Anyone connected with Silsden Park Rangers is reminded that the annual end of season dinner is to be held at Steeton Hall on May 12. Guest speaker will be Keighley Cougers coach Steve Deakin. Everyone is welcome and tickets are £19.00 per person, call 01535-655853.