Kestrels win away at Pontefract.

On a slopping pitch, bone dry from the four day heat wave Cleckheaton started downhill against an older and heavier Pontefract pack.

The first 20 minutes were marked by frequent penalties against both team for infringement around the ruck and maul.

Pontefract made the most of the high error count posting a six point lead from two penalties before Cleckheaton finally put width on the ball and released Lee Queeley whose strength and pace ended with a try in the corner. Team captain Jarrad Toulson converted from the touchline.

Queeley’s try boosted the teams confidence and soon Cleckheaton began to take control of the game. Supported by the slope the tries began to flow and it was not long before Queeley added a second try under the sticks.
Indiscipline continued this time with the added spice of poor handling, however and with some relief to the growing crowd Cleckheaton found structure from the set piece. An excellent line out catch from Matt Beasty, sent quick balls to the backs where Toulson released centre and new addition to the squad Tom Crewe on a darting run between the flat footed Pontefract defenders.

Before half time a fourth try was added by Queeley providing Cleckheaton with breathing space and a firm grip on the game.

The second half began as expected. The larger Pontefract pack kept the ball tight and using the slope took the ball straight down the middle where they were rewarded with a try under the posts.

Cleckheaton needed to respond and respond they did. Brave tackling from forwards Robin Bennett, Ben Thrower and Bob Depledge ensured the fiery determination of the Pontefract pack was quickly distinguished.
Special mention must go Depledge for a crunching tackle 10 minutes into the half. Absorbing the Pontefract player, Depledge wrapped him up in a neat ball and marched him 10 yards up the slope.

More solid tackling followed before Tom Crewe, supported by full back Tom Brook, added a second try to his days work before Lee Queeley increased his tally to four. The pace and power of Queeley was impressive and his return to the senior squad following duties away with the RAF will give senior selectors much to ponder.

The Kestrels have still not found the form they reached last season and they will face bigger challengers then Pontefract . The team has great potential, but extra bite around the ruck and maul is required to provide quicker ball for an eager and threatening back line.

Tomorrow the Kestrels travel to York.