The pattern of the game emerged early on with the visiting side playing a very narrow game and the Oaks defence were able to pick off runners and turnover ball. This lead to an early lead through the boot of fullback Conor Riverol and the home team looked comfortable for the first ten minutes. The occasion started to show after this and a series of knock ons and penalties at the breakdown allowed Ossett to get a foothold; leading to a yellow card for prop Mike Kontou.

The resulting attempt at goal was missed, but another kickable penalty soon after brought Ossett level at 3-3. The Oaks found a response from the restart and were delighted to see number eight David Terrington crash over after a line out and driving maul in enemy territory; Riverol adding the extras. After Mike Kontou returned to make the Oaks a full fifteen, a further penalty was added to leave the score a promising 13-3 at half time.

The second half was a slightly different story though, and an already physical match turned into a slog as neither team took a backward step. The Oaks defended manfully, but conceded a glut of penalties and were ominously struggling for territory. Luckily the visiting stand-off had not packed his kicking boots and succeeded with only one of his three second half attempts.

The tension was palpable from both sets of supporters and the contest was finally settled during a late and rare foray into the Ossett twenty-two. A charging run by centre Tom Everingham earning a penalty in front of the posts and a 16-6 lead with five minutes to go. The game was closed out and jubilant scenes met the final whistle.

Horsea’s drubbing of Knaresborough means that they move to within a point of the Oaks in the league table; Oaks and Hornsea travel to second and third respectively on the final weekend in Yorkshire 4. A postponed fixture for Halifax means that the promotion race has not yet been finalised so all four teams have a nervy afternoon to come.

Kick off at Halifax is 3pm this Saturday and all supporters are welcome to come support Oaks in our final league game of the season.