Saracens keep focus to post big score.
Otley Saracens 71 Hull 2nds 15

The Otley second string was again a much changed side with 1st team call ups and late withdrawals, but they were quickly into their rhythm and looked threatening from the whistle. A more balanced back line with some older heads to inspire and guide the young guns worked well and had the visitors chasing shadows for much of an entertaining game. Despite the biting cold, Otley looked to move the ball whenever possible and reaped the benefits. Winger Jameel Karim showed his amazing pace and seemed likely to score at any moment, but was denied time and again by a last tackle or loose pass.
Ryan Duckett, making a welcome return from long term injury, demonstrated his ability to read the game and run a critical line and was at the hub of much of Otley’s best play. Even he was eclipsed by the steadfastness of Alex Schofield, who launched many of the attacks with alacrity, tackled well and kicked superbly, converting 8 of Otley’s 11 tries and was named Man of the Match.
The forwards worked really hard against a bigger pack and more than held their own showing great determination and superior fitness levels. Chris Matthews was a constant ball winning presence in the loose and Jonny Bartrum made some crucial hard yards to generate momentum. The pick of the tries were probably the two solo efforts from scrum half James Matthews, but the rest were the deserved result of good team play.
The Saracens will be disappointed that they relaxed just after half time to allow a couple of consolation scores to Hull. This though only served to revitalise them and they finished very strongly.
Having strolled out to a 43-5 lead by half time, the discipline to maintain shape and intensity was a challenge and it was good to see this fulfilled.

Tries: Hill, Goodwill, Collins (3), Darren, Matthews J. (2), Snook (2), Manno.
Conversions: Schofield (8).

Otley Saracens: Bartrum, Matthews C., Manno, Boulton, Goodwill, Hope, Girt, Hill, Matthews J, Schofield, Snook, Collins, Darren, Karim, Duckett, Offer, Armit.