Leeds Medics & Dentists 0 Old Otliensians 26

THE setting of the large university pitch at Weetwood was ideal for this encounter in which both young sides were intent on moving the ball wide at every opportunity.

The result was an entertaining afternoon with Otliensians gradually getting on top in the second half to secure a comfortable bonus-point victory.

The game started at a brisk pace with the visiting back row of John Offer, Matt Taylor and Keiran Walker dominating the breakdown.

Half backs Rob Lofthouse and Kristian Keinhorst wasted no time in getting their backs moving, but the home defence was sound.

The breakthrough came after ten minutes when KristianKeinhorst produced one of his trademark chips ahead for brother Nick on the wing to gather and go over halfway out. Connor Bateman’s conversion hit an upright.

It proved to be the only score of a close-fought first half despite the Otliensians pack winning a number of strikes against the head.

Centre Luke Cowdell replaced Offer in the back row for the second half and the ball was again moved wide at every opportunity with the forwards providing good support.

After five minutes centre Luke Freer set off on one his weaving runs to carve huge holes in the opposition defence to touch down under the posts for an excellent try. Bateman's conversion made it 12-0.

Prop Greg Jones managed to force his way through the pile of bodies only to lose the ball as he tried to touch down.

The home side created moments of danger but from one of their attacks Otliensians extended their lead.

Bateman pulled off a timely interception to race in under the posts and stun the opposition. His conversion moved the score to 19-0.

Otliensians had to work hard on defence to keep their opponents at bay before Taylor led a charge that brought a try for Freer, his second of the game, which Bateman converted.

Otliensians face a tough encounter on Saturday away at Thornensians who are second in the league.