Skipton 22 Old Otliensians 27

OLD Otliensians secured promotion to Yorkshire 2 after a hard-fought win over a lowly Skipton side, who put up an impressive fight.

The hosts had nothing to lose and were impressive in the way that they took the game to ‘Ensians, causing disruption throughout. The away side eventually won the game though with the odd try in nine.

The object for Otliensians was to ensure a bonus point win and with that secured, they can enjoy the pleasant distraction of their RFU Junior Vase final at Twickenham on May 6.

Both sides enjoyed the firm ground and dry ball and this meant that they ran from everywhere. Defences were inconsistent throughout the contest, with try-saving tackles and try-giving non-tackles in equal measure.

Winger Ali Booth grabbed a brace of tries in the first half, with forward Matt Taylor also getting his name on the scoresheet. The hosts were only able to score a solitary first half try which meant that 'Ensians led 15-5 at the break.

It had been a hectic 40 minutes, enjoyed by a large number of spectators in unfamiliar sunshine. Kicking out of hand by

both fly halves was good, but they struggled badly from the tee.

Early in the second half, the bonus point was achieved for ‘Ensians thanks to a try by hooker Tom Howard which again went unconverted. However, Skipton began to assert themselves with periods of territory and possession.

‘Ensians emptied their bench, but the “finishers” were on early and perhaps did not do themselves true justice. When the hosts improved the scoreboard to 20-15, matters were not all plain sailing for the away side.

'Ensians weathered the Skipton storm though and the game ended with a converted try at either end. This allowed for a breath of relief for one side and a well-deserved pat on the back for the other.

Old Otliensians took the contest with a 27-22 victory and they could relax and enjoy their promotion dinner. Skipton could also be very pleased with their performance against the promotion achievers as they all but banished their relegation fears.