Keighley 16, Heath 10

This was an entertaining, albeit nail-biting game of rugby. Keigh-ley, with two changes in the pack, realised that in order to win they needed to contain what is probably the best back unit in the division.

Heath, strengthened by powerful rugby league centre Martin Moana, dominated the early exchanges.

Although they quickly moved the ball to their big centre, Alex Brown and Scott Dyson’s first-up tackles stopped moves developing.

However, some powerful scrummaging and drives from Leigh Sugden and Evan Griffin tested the opposition defence and provided a platform for their backs.

Brown made good use of Dyson’s ability to make ground in midfield. Then, using Dyson as a dummy runner, he released Adam Balderstone and Mark Beckett wide out.

With their defence under pressure, Heath conceded a penalty which gave Brown three points.

The siege of Heath’s try-line intensified and they struggled to get decent possession in either the scrum or the line-out.

The Keighley defence were on top of their game, which meant that that the only viable option for talented outside half Giles Heth-erington was kicking to touch.

With Dave Lister dominating the line-out, the ball was quickly re-turned to the danger area.

At a scrum in the corner, No 8 Leigh Sugden picked up and drove over to score. With Keighley controlling territory and possession, life was difficult for Heath.

However, Hetherington managed to find them field position with a long defensive kick.

After a successful line-out on their own 22, Keighley were guilty of a sloppy pass, which was intercepted by the alert Hetherington, who crossed in the corner.

Heath were determined to release their dangerous back line in the second half. Although they got into Keighley’s half on a number of occasions, they were unable to find any space.

Some forceful drives by Griffin, the Sugden brothers and Stuart Inman took play deep into the opposition half, and quick possession and clever interplay between the backs gave Dyson the ball and only one defender to beat – no contest, he crossed wide out.

Keighley relaxed a little, and this, combined with some poor kicking, gave the visitors renewed confidence and vigour.

Quick ball in midfield gave playmaker Hetherington the opportunity to set off across the backline and, after dummying to supporting players, a gap opened up and he scored out wide.

Heath were trailing 13-10 with ten minutes left, but Keighley landed another penalty. On Saturday, Keighley are at Selby.