The trip into Yorkshire, to Huddersfield YMCA was well worth the trek as Saints came out on top, as the Cheshire Cup Holders took on the Yorksire Cup Holders.
Having played a training game with Otley (and Chester) earlier in the season, we know this would prove a stiff test for our boys.
Otley are not Yorks Cup holders for no reason. They are a well drilled and well organised side with excellent players all over the field.
Right from the meet up, I could sense the boys were up for it. Our team has spirit in abundance, a will to win, while trying to play the right way.
The game proved a very tight and close fought encounter with the lead changing hands several times.
Saints dominated the early encounters and scored a well deserved try following good midfield play. While we dominated possession and teritory, Otley showed their class by scoring 2 very good tries with their first 2 attacks into Saints 22. Our tackling had to be first class as Otley always looked a danger and we always felt they could score if we let our concentration drop.
The second half Otley upped their game and really gave us some problems. They began taking the game to us and our defence had to be at its best to keep them out. Saints again got our noses in front and a well kicked penalty from Jack P gave us a 10 point cushion.
Otley threw the kitchen sink at us for the last 10 minutes but there was some fantastic defence and spirit from all the lads.
While it was a great perfomance from 1 to 15 . I must mention Jacob A at scrum half. He was the outstanding individual on the pitch. Otley struggled to handle his physical play in defence but particularly in attack . His direct straight running was a joy to watch. He scored 2 tries, the second one, Jacob must have knocked off about 5 Otley tacklers running in from 40m out.
Thanks very much to Andy and all the Otley lads, You have a very good side. You are welcome at Anselmiams any time. Hopefully we can arrange fixtures for next season and beyond.