Yorkshire Division One: Keighley 14 York 5

KEIGHLEY, in appalling weather, gained a well-earned victory through supreme grit and determination.

The first scrum of the game was adjudged to have been collapsed by the York front row, resulting in a long distance penalty for fly half Alex Brown.

But the early score stung York into action and a period of domination followed.

Using their big forwards, they drove play deep into the host's territory before unleashing their strong-running backs.

Although they came very close to scoring, the combination of a defiant Keighley defence and a greasy ball kept them at bay.

Eventually, Keighley, through hard graft from the forwards, gained good field position, and the pressure forced York to concede two further penalties and six more points for Alex Brown.

Near the end of the half, with the weather conditions deteriorating further, York gained a line-out on the Keighley 22.

Good possession from captain Chris Fox and a powerful forward drive gained a well-earned try for Russ Bowers.

The whole of the second half was a titanic struggle. York once more gained a dominant share of possession and field position.

However, the defence throughout the home team was outstanding.

What possession Keighley did gain was used to full advantage, with the forwards taking turns to drive the ball forward.

Towards the end of the game, No 8 Leigh Sugden broke out of defence and the ball was quickly recycled to wing forward Tom Lowther, who broke down the middle of the field.

Eventually the arrived in the hands of scrum half Rob Wilkinson, who chipped over the top of a well-organised defensive wall, allowing centre Alan Ebbrell the opportunity to charge through to finish the scoring with a try in the corner.