Cleckheaton ended the season on a high note and a third place finish with a convincing bonus point victory over one-time title challengers Wheatley Hills. Games between the two clubs are always competitive no matter what is at stake.This final match of the season was no exception.

A try each for the league's leading try scorers Richard Piper and Gareth Burns ignited the game in the first six minutes and the scores were closely followed by an individual effort from the visitors big lock Gareth Manuel which was converted by full back Jonny Woodcock. Cleckheaton hit back in the 16th minute when Richard Piper scored his second try following good line out possession from Oliver Akroyd. Iain Gordon's conversion was unsuccessful but on the stroke of half time regained the lead for his side with a penalty.

Both sides were in the game at the break and it was to be the team with the biggest desire and will which would come out as victors. The second half continued to reflect the first with both sides playing open rugby creating an entertaining spectacle in excellent conditions. Grant Turton the hard working Cleckheaton lock extended the home sides' lead with a try which was converted by Iain Gordon and on the hour mark Craig Blackburn finished off an excellent handling movement to romp over wide out for the game's best try. Iain Gordon successfully converted his most difficult kick of the afternoon. Gareth Burns reduced the arrears for the visitors with his second try after a muscular drive from a scrum but it was to be Cleckheaton who finished the stronger as Martin Woodhead sprinted over to complete the scoring.

This was Cleckheaton's eleventh victory out of twelve league games since christmas; the best record over the period of any club. Unfortunately such a record has been countered by inconsistent early season form and has resulted in just missing out on a play off place. Departing coach Dave Harrison should be proud of the way his players have pulled together to, at times, produce some irressistible play. Harrison has decided to take a break from front line coaching and the club has been very grateful for his commitment and energy over the last four often difficult years as the club has restated its long term ambitions and has successfully achieved its whole club approach. Four senior sides, a second team which has dominated its league with only one defeat all season and will now play against National league second strings, a thriving junior/mini section with keen and hard working coaches and helpers enthusiastically led by Andy Clark. A blueprint for new changing rooms and a commitment to continue to develop home grown players will surely bear fruit in the coming years. No silverware for the first team but a satisfying glow and expectations for more success next season as the club regroup with a new coaching team and a group of committed players.