Rossendale 15 - 8 Cleckheaton

Despite another battling performance and a losing bonus point,Cleckheaton were relegated back to North One East when it became clear that nearest rivals Rochdale had won convincingly at home to Mowden Park.Both sides had to work hard to make ground in the testing conditions and it was the bigger home pack which laid the foundations for the first score in the 20th minute. Centre John Appleton was given the space to burst through the Cleckheaton defence for a try which was converted by James Bramhall.
Despite playing up the slope Cleckheaton looked dangerous in attack and their size disadvantage appeared to be of little consequence as ample possession was gained.In the 28th minute Rossendale No 7 Bryce Healey was given a yellow card for a ruck infringement,due in the main to the intense pressure exerted by the Cleckheaton pack.
Cleckheaton were up for the battle but it was the home side who extended their lead in the 57th minute with a James Bramhall penalty.Play became scrappy as the pitch conditions deteriorated,even the referee having to have lengthy treatment for a calf injury.However,Cleckheaton were next on the scoreboard when Dominic Castle took a quick penalty thirty metres out,made ground and the support was there for Mitch Ashworth to dive over for a good try.Iain Gordon was unsuccessful with the conversion attempt.
The game was in the balance until the 74th minute when big home No 8 Patrick Pole went over in the corner for a try which was unconverted.Two minutes later Iain Gordon kicked a penalty but a losing bonus point was scant reward for a season of near misses and much endeavour by a young side which will only get better.
Now the reality of the situation is certain the club can look forward to the future with some optimism.This time last season the team was suffering heavy defeats and it appeared that pride itself was insufficient motivation for turning out.The team of 2009-10 is made of sterner stuff.There is still spirit,a sense of togetherness and a determination to improve next season.Most of the playing personnel realise that as a team they have underperformed,but at times there have been some spectacular successes individually.One figure to gain great credit both for his performance on Saturday and in the season overall is Richard Piper.The man has come of age and is showing how a steely determination to beat what is in front of you can go a long way.He has played in five different forward positions this season and each time has set about his task with great relish,urging his team mates on.A true player of the season!