Pilkington Recs’ NCL Division Two campaign got off to a disappointing start with a 44-16
defeat at East Leeds.
Before the game, there was a beautifully observed minute’s silence for Cliff Tamou, who
tragically lost his life after an accident on the M6.
It was the hosts who made a fast start on a beautiful spring day in Yorkshire. They went 22-0
up inside half-an-hour.
To make matters worse, Tom Connick was forced off early with an elbow injury, which took
him out of the first half, and some of the second.
Jon Key was also sent to the sin bin for only the second time in his career after catching his
opponent high.
Just a minute after Key was sent to the bin, Pilks finally got on the board. Some nice
movement from fullback Callum Derrick created some space, and Aidyn Jones was able to
get over. Lewis Caine converted from out wide to give the visitors something to build on.
The score stayed 22-6 until the half-time whistle.
Having got the last try of the first half, Pilks then got the first try of the second half as well.
George Hannan was able to power through a couple of tackles and find the floor to score.
Caine couldn't convert this time, but the visitors were closing the gap.
Any hopes of a comeback were swiftly extinguished, as East Leeds scored three tries in six
minutes to break the 40 point mark.
Despite the difference on the scoreboard, Pilks never gave up and got a third try to show for
their efforts. Key was able to spin out of a tackle and score under the posts. Caine converted
to take Pilks onto 16 points.
But the last word would go to East Leeds, who got the final try to rubber stamp their round
one victory.
Up next for Pilks is a home game against Normanton Knights, where they will be hoping to
bounce back.