Kirkby still on target for a season unbeaten

the win maybe never in doubt....but not totally convincing

AK1's welcomed league leaders and as yet unbeaten all season Kirkby Lonsdale to Stelfox Ave on Saturday 25th March, AK definitely up for the challenge and in front of a large crowd, tempted out no doubt by the fabulous spring weather making for an ideal day to watch rugby.
AK although still focused on not dropping down a division with just four games to go after this, ran out onto the pitch determined not to make another victory a total forgone conclusion for Kirkby.
Even after AK were caught napping in the first 5 minutes with a swift breakthrough from the visitors, scoring their first try to the home crowds dismay, the kick wasn't converted, and AK came back immediately with some strong defensive play.
Possession kicked back and forth for most of the first half, with a slim margin for Kirkby going in at half time 8-18 ahead after AK had scored a well worked try from Matt Moss, this no mean feat against a team with the best defensive record in the league this season, a further 3 penalty points successfully kicked by Jack Emerson.
Second half AK once again were caught immediately in the headlights or was it the searing sun? allowing for some missed tackles leading to a bit of an onslaught from Kirkby, who through some good attacking rugby started to pile on the points now leading 8-46.
AK were not done yet, eventually getting a grip on the game, persistent pressure and great runs from Doug Whyley culminated with a try from Joe Kelly, bringing AK's score to 13 against 46, proving to be the final score.
Although it was blatantly evident that Kirkby were never in any real trouble, they definitely weren't totally convincing either, Kirkby actually reported their encounter with AK as "a strange fixture" well we can vouch there's certainly nothing strange about Kersal, who only a few short seasons ago were in the same dizzy heights position as our opponents today, running away with North One West league as outright winners, however this season after a series of unfortunate events resulting from bad injuries to key AK players, we reflect on what we could have achieved this season.
AK focus now on the last four remaining games, as we aim to seal our rightful position in this league and to build again for next season.
It's not all over yet.
Next up Eccles away Saturday 1st April 3pm.