Skipton 35 Stocksbridge 5

Skipton produced a rousing performance to defeat opponents from a higher division in their Yorkshire Silver Trophy first round tie.

The Reds had the advantage of the wind in the first half and went ahead with an early try from skipper Binner.

Skipton continued to dominate but twice the visitors broke away and Stork-Flatley had to make good try-saving tackles.

From another foray into Skipton’s half a wild hack at the ball appeared to have cleared the dead-ball line but the strong wind held it up and the alert visiting winger followed up and scored.

Undeterred, Skipton went straight back on the attack with Ben Hall, who was excellent throughout, weaved his way over the line.

But the best move of the first half was still to come.

Good runs from Brown and Palfrey-Smith followed by quick second-phase ball, allowed Donnelly to float a perfectly-timed miss pass to Ackers whose blistering speed and sidestep took him from halfway to the try line.

Donnelly converted and added a penalty for a 20-5 half-time lead.

Skipton’s followers were delighted by the opening score of the second half. Ridehalgh rampaged to the line.

Further phases of strength and subtlety combined to reduce the visitors to a demoralised outfit.

Braithwaite was the next try scorer with Donnelly converting. A further penalty from Donnelly put the seal on a heartening Skipton team effort.

Skipton’s second string were beaten 35-22 by Clitheroe. Matty Reay scored a brace of tries.

Skipton are holding a juniors’ registration day for new players of all ages on Sunday at Sandylands, 10.30am.