RHYS Morgan is determined to lift the growing pressure on his young side.

The 18-13 home defeat by Sandal was their seventh straight National Three North defeat.

Once again it was a match they could have won if they had not made so many errors at key times and given away a string of penalties.

The Ilkley head of rugby said: "We have a young side who have the potential to achieve good things if they stick together for the next few years.

"At the moment they are finding things tough. They are anxious for a win and the more they push for it the more they shove it away.

"They so want to score tries and win a game that they start forcing things and that is where the errors come in."

Ilkley have a week off before their next match at Wirral, but Morgan would be happier if they were playing.

"When I was a player I wanted to play twice a week when we were on a losing run to get a win, but I am sure the rest will help some of of our players."

Ilkley did earn a losing bonus point against Sandal, one of the positive Morgan took from the game.

"It's one more point towards safety and every little helps at the moment.

"I was also pleased that our new second row pair of Harry Adams and Adam Mitchell went well.

"It was Harry's debut and he was unlucky to get a yellow card. I am sure that like the team his luck will change.

"It is important we persevere because this crop of players have the potential to develop into a good side."