Sheffield Oaks 19 Skipton 8

THE journey to South Yorkshire resulted in disappointment for Skipton side as they failed to convert good individual performances into a cohesive team effort.

The Skipton scrum was under pressure from the start and, whilst winning consistent ball, the visiting forwards were unable to cope with the Oaks' driving mauls as they made ground down field and put pressure on Skipton's line.

Despite brave defence from the visitors, this aspect of the Oaks' game resulted in them crossing the line twice to take an early lead.

Skipton forwards Liam Jordan and Luke Currie took the game to the opposition with strong runs down field but a lack of support prevented Skipton from turning these into points.

The last 15 minutes before half-time saw a period of intense open rugby from both sides with the Oaks receiving a warning following a flare up at the breakdown. Skipton clawed back three points from the resultant penalty and the sides turned round at 14-3.

Sheffield Oaks put their driving maul technique to good use again at the start of the second period and secured a further try.

The visitors remained calm and applied pressure on the home side's line with a well worked back move putting Matt Raw over for a well-deserved try but it was too little too late and the home side hung on to the lead to secure their first league win of the season.

This result will hurt Skipton who will be looking to make amends at home to Wensleydale next week.

Man of the match for the visitors was Luke Stockton who was making a welcome return to the first team squad . He proved a valuable addition in the line-out.