WET and windy weather didn't stop Parkside and Oakbank battling it out in their annual Schools' Challenge at their link club Keighley RUFC.

Matches were played across three age-groups in what was a curtain-raiser to the Yorkshire Division Two derby against Old Grovians.

Oakbank won the Craig Dyson School Trophy by triumphing in two of the matches.

After a final morning pitch inspection, over 100 students took part, with Oakbank taking the Year Seven game, despite a second-half fightback from Parkside.

Kieran Dunne was in fine form, scoring six tries, while Parkside’s Evan Jones chipped in with two.

The Year Eight fixture was closer, with Oakbank only securing victory in the last minute after an excellent breakaway try from Joel Oxford, who impressed with a hat-trick.

An excellent contest at the breakdown between Parkside’s Arron Hands and Oakbank's Toby Stevens was testimony to how far the schools have developed their skills.

The Year 10 fixture was also close, as expected, with Parkside running out winners by one try, with both sides playing some impressive expansive rugby.

For Oakbank, Leon Hobson-Sheriff and Darnell Alexander-Connell each scored two tries, but were outdone by Ethan Lawrie and Nico Mori, who were impressive in both defence and attack for Parkside.

The day not only strengthened the relationship between the schools but also their link with Keighley RUFC, whose coaches and officials hosted students and parents.

Keighley coaching co-ordinator Steve Welch, who organised the event, said: "It's fantastic to see so many young players enjoying themselves on a wet Saturday lunchtime.

"The club-school link continues to grow in strength, and these links allow the players to progress and flourish in a safe and positive environment.

"The core values of rugby union – teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline and sportsmanship – will give these youngsters positive values for life."

Parkside’s head teacher Andy Taylor said: "Seeing in excess of 100 students from Oakbank and Parkside involved in the friendlies was enough to brighten even the most miserable of days.

"The games were competitive, played in the right way and supported fantastically by all the families, friends and rugby supporters."