National League Two North: Hinckley 27 Otley 15

ONCE again travelling to play a team just promoted through the Midlands Division who were at the base of the league with just a single win, Otley contrived to lose in the same manner as the previous week, being unable to get over the line after doing all the hard work.

A bright start from Hinckley had Otley on the back foot, but they held out to an early attack before conceding a line- out from which a solid drive led to lock Ehize Edevbalo-Ehizode grounding, fly half Connor Eastgate adding the conversion.

The pressure being maintained, he landed a 40-metre penalty on 23 minutes and, with Otley still trying to find their feet, they conceded another close-range try from skipper and No 8 Alex Salt on the half-hour.

At last picking up their game, the visitors swept upfield for locl Sam Cook to finish things off, full back Tom Hodson being wide with the conversion attempt, but on 40 minutes he kicked a penalty which brought them back into the game at 15-8.

However, they struggled after the break, and five minutes in conceded a penalty try, which was easily converted by Eastgate.

This stirred Otley to better things, and Henry Roberts went over for a try, Hodson converting to get them within a score if drawing level.

But there was just the frustration of creating openings but being unable to deliver or catch the final pass, and they were left pointless when flanker Joe Glover went over just before the final whistle.

Tynedale, with a similar record, visit Cross Green on Saturday, with Otley seeking to improve their league position, being with neighbours Wharfedale and Harrogate in the bottom five.