Pennine League Division Four West: Silsden 34 Wyke A 10

ON YET another wet and windy day, Silsden's pitch was only just playable but the Cobbydalers were up for this game and boosted their promotion hopes with another league victory.

They started brightly and finished off a flowing move with six passes to the right, scoring in the corner through Tom Booker, but it was too far out to convert.

Wyke were in no mood to capitulate and both sides demonstrated some strong running and solid tackling, with Ben Ross and Phil Stephenson grafting away on a muddy surface which cut up from the off.

The visitors hit back when they kicked high on the last tackle and the ball was spilled for their chasing player to pick up and dive over under the posts for a two-point lead.

Back came Silsden with another bit of rugby which defied the conditions for James Bowdin to cross for an unconverted try.

They then drove forward once again for Jake Smith to get over the line under the posts, but there was still no conversion as the ball rebounded off the upright as Silsden went in at the interval just six points ahead and all to play for in the second period.

The gap was soon widened when, after some strong drives up front, Jonny Crowther got in from acting half for a typical score from the ever-dangerous hooker. The lead was increased when Ben Ross forced his way over next to the posts and Jack Adams raised a cheer from the crowd as the first conversion went over.

Silsden were now in control and some of the big Wyke forwards were feeling the strain of running through the mud. Changing tactics, the hosts put on a mighty shove at a scrum, won the ball and Ben Ross crossed with the defence in some disarray. Once more the extras were added.

Wyke were not done yet and, after a number of penalties against the home team, they worked a position to get over the line from close in.

The last score of the match came from another bit of powerful running from Kris Stell, again goaled by Adams for a final result of 34-10.

Man of the match was full back Smith, who is getting better every week. Charlie Lowrie made his debut on the wing and demonstrated some great potential.

Silsden, who are fifth in the table but only four points off top spot with two games in hand, head to King Cross Park A on Saturday.