Leeds lose tight encounter away at Wibsey 21-13

Leeds travelled to Wibsey looking to put right their heart breaking loss at Knaresborough. There were several changes to the side, with Joe Walton, Michael Tuke and Chris Chapman unavailable. Neil Haywood, Antony Wilkinson and Matty Reid all came in to the side. Will Craven made his first team debut on the bench after impressing in training and the 2nds, along with the returning Ben Walker and Danny O'Connor.

The game started in atrocious conditions with a gale force wind coming across the pitch. Leeds won the toss opted to play with it at their backs. Leeds started the game brightly and were arguably the better side. Both teams showed off sturdy defences, and Wibsey clearly had a plan to carry up the middle. Leeds had the edge in territory and possession and took an early penalty which Tom Burnell converted. Leeds then opened up the scoring. Powerful running took the Leeds side into the Wibsey 22. The ball found Josh Cassar who went on one of his trademark runs, carrying several defenders over the line to score. Tom Burnell converted and Leeds had a healthy lead. Wibsey managed to find position in the Leeds half and broke through to score. Tom Burnell kicked another penalty and at half time Leeds had a slender 13-7 lead.

Leeds had to contend with the wind in their face in the 2nd half and struggled to deal with the conditions. Wibsey were clearly more adept at playing in such conditions on their own turf, and dominated possession and territory. The Wibsey full back and fly half both had a booming kick and pinned Leeds in their own 22 repeatedly, starving Leeds of territory. Leeds defence held firm and apart from a few penalties, they were still in the game. Wibsey stretched the lead out at the end, breaking through near the Leeds line to score and put the game out of reach of the Corinthians.

Congratulations to Wibsey on a well deserved win, both teams will feel pleased with their solid defensive work. Leeds will go back to the drawing board disappointed they didn't execute how they wanted to, but knowing they can fix it up.

Leeds will look forward to playing at home after a long run of away games. Next up is Bramley at home this Saturday.

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