LEICESTER Lions scored two late tries to beat Otley 29-15 and prevent them from getting any bonus points.

In the National Two North clash at Cross Green, the contest was dominated by the rolling maul.

Playing against the blustery wind in the first half, the Lions showed their intent with Devon Constant being put into touch twice just before the line.

After ten minutes, Curtis Weaver bundled over after Otley lost their line-out in the corner.

Just after the first quarter, Stephen Nolson’s kick through generated a scrum followed by a penalty, and Ben Smith reduced the deficit.

The Lions stretched their lead following a penalty after Otley did not roll away quickly enough.

The ball was put into the left-hand corner, from which Ben Spokes drove over the line.

Shortly after Leicester were also guilty of not releasing, the ball going into the equivalent corner.

However, as Otley moved the ball across the pitch they were guilty of crossing and the opportunity was lost.

At the end of the half, Otley had to work hard in the Lions’ 22 to score with Joe Graham going over.

Now working with the wind, a Lions' centre had an early chance to score but the Otley defence was up to the challenge.

Ten minutes in, the Lions had Otley in trouble with a long clearance kick, the penalty going into the corner, setting up another maul with Ethan Godefroy going over.

Otley drew level with their own maul, electing to take a scrum in the scoreboard corner after a penalty, Will Burns being walked over the line, which Smith converted.

The Lions then took charge of the game, again kicking long to capitalise on any Otley mistakes.

They got their fourth try after a scrum in the home side’s 22, Max Titchener slipping around the defence in the right hand corner.

Otley’s fate was sealed when Simon Johnson went over in the other corner, Titchener converting both tries.

Otley named Declan Dunn man of the match, as he played his 98th league game for the club.

NICK DOYLE