Positive Play from the u16s

Wheatley Hills was the destination for Selby Under 16’s in the latest Yorkshire Cup game. Despite beautiful sunshine in the Selby area, the fog did not lift in Doncaster as both sides impeccably observed 2 minutes silence before kick off.

Selby started brightly with the forward pack dominating proceedings. Strong play by Howard and Kierans kept the ball in the opposition’s half for the first 10 minutes but the powerful Wheatley Hills line soaked up the pressure. A succession of turn overs from Selby and unforced errors saw the tide start to turn and the play shifted to the other end. Relentless pressure saw the first converted try for the home team. This was followed up quickly by a second when Selby were guilty of not playing to the whistle, allowing an easy score and conversion just before half time.

With the score at 14-0, Captain Kealey motivated the boys in the break and provided the catalyst for the first Selby try. Winger Tipping overturning a loss of possession deep in his own half with a cheeky interception and offload to the versatile Ellam. With quick hands Full back Sibley was unleashed at speed. With much to do he covered three quarters of the pitch, side stepping and angling his run to the posts perfectly. Kealey stepped up and converted dutifully.

With the pressure now firmly on Wheatley Hills, Selby should have quickly levelled up, but a succession of lost lineouts cost them dearly allowing the home side to once again break through and convert. Deep into the second half Selby finally capitalised on the opposition’s tired limbs when Janus carried the ball over after consistent pressure from our pack. This was the second and last Selby try. Kealey once again converting.

The impressive Wheatley pack had strength, good ball handling skills and speed. They closed the gaps on the field well and charged down several clearance kicks, with the latter leading to the final score of the game.

At the final whistle, Selby were left to wonder what could have been, particularly after such a positive start. Final score 26-14.