Leeds progress in cup with victory at Hessle 13-3

Leeds travelled to Hessle in the cup after a week off with a number of players unavailable. Neil Orr, Andy Gibney, Matty Reid, Chris Brown, Tom Burnell, Chris Chapman, Jason Care, Byron Lee, Joe Walton, Mark Massey and Dez Claxton were all unavailable. Despite the absence of 11 first team players, Leeds showed just how strong they are this season by fielding a strong side. Will Craven, Danny O'Connor, Scott Armitage, Connor Stone and Ben Walker all returned to the side, with Myles Robinson making his first appearance at scrum half after several years away from the club.

The game started evenly matched, with two contrasting styles of play on show. Hessle focused on going up the middle with ball in hand but were shut out by resolute defence by Leeds. Leeds on the other hand looked like they had come to attack, and went wide at every opportunity. Hessle dominated possession due to some sloppy play by Leeds turning the ball over, but they were unable to break Leeds down and never looked like going through. A couple of penalties either way meant the scores were level at 3-3.

Leeds looked dominant at the line out and began to turn the screw on Hessle. Excellent defensive work at the lineout by the Leeds forwards resulted in a decent Hessle line out disintegrating, with Neil Haywood able to steal a number of balls.

Leeds were first over the try line. A penalty kick by Danny Boyes hit the post, and the impressive Myles Robinson was first to react to the loose ball and bundled his way over to score. Leeds took control from there. Excellent game management by the team pinned Hessle in their own half and they were unable to escape. A Penalty soon came and Danny Boyes slotted it over to secure victory.

This was a super team performance by Leeds who were disciplined and eager throughout. Leeds maybe disappointed they didn't look after the ball as well as they can and will look to fix this up in the week, but they made up for this with another dominant display in defence.

Paul Sebine, Danny O'Connor and Ryan Croft put in their shifts with abrasive performances. Ellis Robinson had some dangerous moments in the backs, and Danny Boyes controlled the game at 10. Man of the match however went to Myles Robinson who was everywhere on the field and bossed the forwards around superbly.

Next up, we have Halifax at home in the league. Kick off 2:15. Hope to see you there.