Keighley 5 - 17 Cleckheaton

This match was far from being an end of season inconvenience and the total commitment from both sides was a credit to their attitude and application.Keighley, requiring a bonus point win to avoid a return to Yorkshire One were first on the scoreboard with a try from winger Steve Walker.This score was very much against the direction of play but what it did do was refocus the visitors to the matter in hand and emphasise that Keighley are a competent side who will give 100% for the cause. Cleckheaton replied shortly afterwards with a penalty from Iain Gordon and with skipper Richard Piper in the sin bin took the lead with a well worked try from the game's best player full back Ross Hayden.Iain Gordon converted and at the break the visitors appeared to be in the driving seat especially given that the strong wind would be in their favour in the second half.The reality was somewhat different.Keighley increased the pressure and pounded the Cleckheaton line for most of the third quarter of the game.However, a series of injuries and an unyielding defence combined to maintain the visitors narrow lead.As is normally the case the Cleckheaton pack regrouped and gained field position in the Keighley half.A series of powerful drives towards the home try line culminated in lock Ryan Piercy diving over for the decisive score which was converted by Iain Gordon.When Cleckheaton have played well this season it is when the pack as a unit have imposed themselves on the game,making ground by building phases patiently whilst retaining possession.No side can play without the ball and the well drilled Cleckheaton pack is one of the best at squeezing the life out of the opposition.
A feisty and often bad tempered encounter was ultimately decided by Cleckheaton's better composure with the ball and a towering defensive effort from the whole team.This was never going to be an easy game given the relative league positions but it was always interesting and full of commitment.
On returning to the Cleckheaton clubhouse the sight of the Kestrels celebrating their league title and a victory over Keighley in their last league game of the season was a joy to behold.Add to the that the 4ths victory over Morley and the 3rds joining in as their opponents had cried off-again,the atmosphere was fantastic.One more league game to go at home to Wheatley Hills next Saturday and although a play off place is now impossible a resounding victory would just give a glossy finish to a wonderful second half of the season.