Huddersfield U12s 19 Keighley U12s 28

as if the wind and rain and a layoff of over 6 weeks weren’t enough, inexplicable last minute withdrawals from the squad meant that the team started with only 12 players

This didn’t seem to affect the team however as they played some of the best rugby of the season which led to the opposition coaches praising their ferocity, determination and their rucking skills.

The territory and possession were all Keighley’s for the opening quarter. They drove up the slope and camped out in the opposition’s half. Twice they came close without scoring before Tom Willson popped across the whitewash to secure the first points. Gradually, however, Huddersfield found their technique and organisation and won more and more set piece. Resolute defence saw little territory given away by Keighley until a lapse in concentration at a quick penalty saw Huddersfield’s elusive full back pick up the first of his tries from well inside his own half.

With the scores level at half time the second half began just as t he first had ended. No quarters were given by either team as battle recommenced. Stalemate for 5 minutes...until a sense of déjà vu kicked in and, from inside his own half, the home team’s full back scored again.

A disallowed try for Harry Gallagher didn’t help the Keighley cause but, grinding their way forward, they once again found themselves immovable in the opposition’s half. Good running from Robbie Payne opened the defence and, although he squandered initial chance to spin the ball wide, he made up for it with a determined dive over from short range.

More territorial advantage saw a scrum won against the head. Samuel Grant picked up the loose ball from the floor and drove over to put Keighley ahead.

Tom Willson bagged a second for himself and Liam Brookes converted his fourth of the day before a well worked consolation try by the hosts finished the scoring.

Every player left the pitch elated after the win, knowing that teamwork, determination and self belief had won the day.