A frustrating game to watch.

Heath 2nd xv travelled to Keighley to take on Keighley in a league match on a dry, sunny afternoon. Heath started the first half with the slope and wind in their favour but it was Keighley who showed up stronger in the early exchanges. However, it was the Heath boys who opened the scoring after 7 minutes. They were awarded a penalty that was quickly taken by number 8, Jeff JONES. He made ground and the ball was recycled to the backs where centre, Gary INGHAM, made good ground before offloading to Will NICHOLSON who drove the ball in. Further quick ball found Gary INGHAM once more and he made good progress before being tackled and offloading once again. The ball was moved quickly down the line where full back, Mick GLEESON, entered the line running an excellent angle before dummying to 2 players outside and scoring a fine try some 15 metres to the side of the posts. The conversion attempt by skipper, Richard COLE, was missed. 5 – 0. Heath continued to dictate and after 11 minutes, Richard COLE kicked through for right winger, Kyle LISTER, to chase. Kyle secured the ball and beat 4 Keighley defenders on a side stepping run before being tackled. The ball was quickly recycled and Richard COLE found touch some 15 metres from the line. Unfortunately, this came to nought. Heath continued to press but they were guilty of giving away silly penalties just when they had taken a foothold in Keighley territory. However, a good piece of play saw Mick GLEESON enter the line and find Kyle LISTER who ran along the wing before putting in an intelligent kick that centre, Andy WHITE, was just unable to secure. Keighley were getting on top in the scrums and it was they who opened their account after 34 minutes. Heath were penalised for feeding at the scrum some 10 metres from their line. Keighley took a quick tap and drove the ball in. The ball was recycled and a Keighley forward then picked up the ball and dived over the line. However, he apparently lost the ball some 2 feet from the ground giving Heath the defending scrum. Unfortunately, the referee awarded what seemed to be the most dubious of tries that was converted just to rub it in. 5 – 7. The first half came to end shortly afterwards with no addition to the score. Heath were not awarded one penalty in the first half!! At half time, Paddy KERR replaced Steve RICHARDSON and newcomer, Alan DOBSON made his debut at hooker replacing Gareth OWEN. The early periods of the second half were even with no team being able to dictate proceedings. After 55 minutes, Rick CARTER was replaced at prop by youngster, Joe COX. After 62 minutes, Keighley increased their lead with a try out wide on their left. The try was not converted. 5 – 12. After 65 minutes, Gary INGHAM had to leave the field with a shoulder injury being replaced by Martyn BARNES. After 70 minutes, Richard COLE left the field as he was required as replacement for the 1st xv who were playing on an adjacent pitch. Heath had to reorganise with Gareth OWEN returning to the field. Mick GLEESON then made a break from his own ‘22’. He made excellent ground before kicking through. It was a foot chase between Mick and a defender. He was able to fly-hack the ball forward before falling to the ground after contact with the defending player. The ball was chased by BARNESY who was first to it to score a good try which was converted by Mick GLEESON. 12 - 12. After 75 minutes, Keighley threatened the Heath line but the Heath lads defended well and secured a 5 metre scrum. The ball was won under pressure but a relieving kick only found the Keighley centre who ran the ball back with interest. After 2 phases, they scored a converted try in the corner. 12 – 19. Final score : Keighley 19 v 12 Heath. This was a frustrating game to watch for the Heath supporters. The game was there for the taking but they lacked cohesion throughout the match thus accounting for another setback. Man of the match awards go to Mick GLEESON who had an outstanding game and young winger Richard ARMSTRONG who ran strongly and defended well. Although he is learning the game, with a bit of coaching he could become a very good asset to the club.