IT was a disappointing start to the Counties Two Yorkshire season for North Ribblesdale, who dominated their game at Ripon but lost 24-17.

Ribb spent large parts of this game on the offensive, but despite having the upper hand in the forwards, a series of tactical errors let the win slip away.

They had shown forward dominance in the first half, but slipped to defeat after they butchered a simple pushover try, which would have put them two scores up and allowed them to close out the game.

Early on, Ribb's tight forwards soon had the upper hand and a Kyle Handy try put them ahead at the break..

Mike Bray, the home player-coach, kept Ripon in touch with two good penalties after Ribb's try and although they were under pressure in the pack, they kicked well, keeping Ribb at bay.

And that determined attitude early on served Ripon well as the game wore on, as they turned the scoreline on its head.

Ribb should have won this game, as they were on top in the forwards, but their tactics and unforced errors kept Ripon in the game.

A bit more discipline is required going forward to allow their young talented backs flourish, starting with their game at home to Wath Upon Dearne this Saturday.