Leeds Akkies 44 Keighley Albion 20

ALBION suffered a losing debut playing summer rugby at senior level in the Yorkshire Men’s League.

In the opening quarter, they struggled to settle and some indifferent refereeing added to their frustrations, which led to a string of penalties and easy possession being gifted to Akkies.

Taking full advantage, the Leeds side took an early 18-point lead before the impressive Mark Smith steadied the ship with a trademark short burst to go over and open Albion’s scoring.

Towards the end of the first half, Keighley played some of their best rugby. Enterprising play from the outstanding Cal Hudson and Josh Ireland sent Joe Preston into a gap to go over and make it 18-10 to Akkies.

In the second half Albion lost their discipline again and with it their chances of getting a result as first captain Chris Price was given ten minutes in the sin bin. He was followed by Smith and Hudson to reduce Keighley to ten men as more indifferent refereeing brought out the worst in them.

Akkies added four more tries before Albion played their best and most disciplined rugby of the game. Price and Smith led the team forward with some telling drives which set the platform for Jamie Hodgson and the impressive Andy Stokes to put Reece Robertson over in the corner. Jason Rolls then entered the fray to force his way over to cut the deficit to within two tries but Akkies had the final word as they crossed for two late tries.

If Albion can keep their discipline this week when they host Knottingley Worms at home, the result will come for them.