The RFU's play-off system for regional rugby saw Selby make a second visit of the season to Feathers Field, Pocklington, this time for a semi-final. It was a notably young Selby side that took the field, with youngster Henry Westmoreland-Smith making his debut at open side flanker. The bench offered a contrast in experience, with the seasoned Jamie Dentith and Liam Hogan among the replacements.

Pocklington started brightly, scoring after just two minutes by creating an overlap on the left to take the lead. Selby responded immediately. Westmoreland took a direct approach to the tryline with a destructive run, Pocklington conceding penalties in the process, before Harry Tunningley was worked over for a try, though Charlie Bramley was unable to add the conversion.

The visitors grew in confidence. Hooker Jack Todd burst out of the 22 into space — catching everyone by surprise as he sprinted towards the tryline — before being hauled down and popping the ball to fellow front rower Max Wotton, who powered over to score. Bramley converted easily from in front of the posts.

Pocklington responded with another converted try to retake the lead, before Bramley kicked a penalty to nudge Selby back in front at 15–14. Twenty-nine points in eighteen minutes, with both sides playing with real enterprise in conditions well suited to open rugby. The hosts then edged ahead with a penalty of their own, and a further converted try extended their lead to 24–15 at the break. A Pocklington penalty on the restart seemed to give the hosts the belief to push on, and two tries from centre Dan Elliott — one converted — appeared to put the game beyond Selby. The young Swans, however, were not done.

Joe Styrin, impressive in the lineout throughout, won good ball and Charlie Bramley glided through a gap to score and convert, pulling seven points back. Stand-off Ben Poskitt then sold a dummy to break the first line of defence, and with Ed Wake in support, winger Noah Athraby was put into space and had the pace to go over untouched. The conversion was missed but the game was suddenly back in the balance at 39–27.

Winger Sangwin scored a converted try to settle Pocklington nerves before Selby struck again. Three players who have contributed so much this season combined beautifully — James Bramley with a trademark break in the centre, Jack Todd the link on his shoulder, and Joey Reid on hand to score for the second week running. Charlie Bramley converted.

Pocklington had the final word with a converted try to make it 51–34, and they now host Morley as their season continues.

For Selby, the season ends as one of consolidation — understandable given the backdrop of relegation and the loss of players through work relocation. It was good to see Henry Wright and Jamie Ibbetson among the spectators at Pocklington.

Away from the first team, it was a remarkable day at Sandhill Lane. The second XV, captained by Ben Parker and missing Harry Clarke who was with the firsts, faced Pocklington in their own play-off. What followed was an extraordinary match, tied at 36–36 after full time before Selby prevailed 51–48 in extra time — a quite remarkable result and a tremendous effort from all involved. Selby face Malton & Norton in the playoff final at BEVERLEY RUFC on Saturday 25th April, KO 3pm. All support is very welcome.

The thirds lost 51–17 to Cleckheaton, though the occasion was notable for the appearance of four members of Selby's victorious Twickenham side. Ben Booth started at prop, with Duncan Hardy, Iain Adamson and Ben Lunt combining in the midfield. Ian Copperwheat rounded off yet another season, continuing to defy the passing years in the way only he can.

On Friday evening, Brayton College made the short trip to Selby for a multi-age group fixture, rounding off a busy week at the club. Next Sunday sees the Mini Festival at Sandhill Lane — a reminder that mini rugby at Selby began back in September 1976, meaning the section is approaching its 50th anniversary. The first festival was held in 1978, and many of those who pulled on a jersey this weekend will have taken their very first steps in the game right here at Selby. A fitting thought on which to close the season.

The club would like to thank everyone who has supported the Swans throughout the season — players, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters alike. See you next season!