Morris holds his nerve as Otley fall just short

LUCTONIANS withstood a second-half onslaught from Otley to eventually run out victors in a tense game with both clubs searching for a vital win as they battle against the drop.

Luctonians started well with Frank Kelly going over following good work from young Olly Allsopp, and a Will Hodnett try almost immediately followed when he ran through to score again after excellent work from Alex Smith.

Morris added a penalty and Lucs should have been looking at a comfortable lead but were guilty of too many errors and they allowed Otley back into the game when Henry Roberts scored with Jack BlakeneyEdwards converting.

A penalty try for Luctonians just before half-time should have seen the home side confident going into the second half. However, Otley came out with a lot more purpose and were in possession for much of the second half, with Jack Mackie and Michael Coady causing Luctonians plenty of problems with their direct play.

They were rewarded for their efforts on 59 minutes when Tiploma Kivalu rumbled over from close in to score before a penalty try reduced the gap to three.

But the home side dug deep and they were awarded two vital late penalties from Otley errors.

Johnny Morris nervelessly kicked both to see them home for a fine home win and consolidate their mid-table position.