Rugby Union: Teen team are the champs

From the archive, first published Friday 3rd Feb 2006.

KEIGHLEY Rugby Union Under-17s clinched the Yorkshire First Division Championship with a classy display last weekend.

They go into the final game of the campaign at Doncaster knowing that they cannot be toppled off top spot after hitting top form against Middlesbrough on Sunday.

They raced away with a 23-5 victory and began the game by applying heavy pressure on the large visiting outfit. After five minutes second row forward Sam Long crashed over, but Geraghty could not add the conversion attempt. Confidence grew and the home side continued to apply pressure, but Middlesbrough hit back with an equalising try.

The score seemed to spur Keighley back into action and a Geraghty penalty regained a lead they would not relinquish.

Keighley remained on top in the second half and captain Will Tate scored out wide, with Geraghty adding the touchline conversion. He added a further penalty and Keighley sealed victory when scrum half Wilkinson burst through a flat-footed defence from 15m out. His try was converted to crown a superb team performance.

The season has been built around a well organised pack that has produced good ball for a group of backs that have shown pace and power with excellent ball handling skills.

"The one big factor in taking them to the top has been the fantastic spirit, not just among the players, but everybody who has supported the campaign," said coach Martyn Long.

The Under-17s now go on to represent Yorkshire in the National Cup competition.

n The team (right) celebrates.

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