Zebras earn their stripes in derby

Otley ................ 16 Wharfedale ...... 8

OTLEY withstood two periods of intense pressure, at the start and end of the game, to retain local bragging rights.

Though Wharfedale kept Otley in their half for the first 15 minutes, they were unable to capitalise and Otley began to release the shackles.

The first scrum brought them a penalty on the ten-metre line, Joe Rowntree stepping up to score, and Wharfedale were unable to cope at the scrum throughout.

With two men down injured, Otley pressed forward, with Will Burns leading the charge, and Adam Malthouse scored.

Jack BlakeneyEdwards brought the half to an end with a penalty, after two high tackles by Otley, reaching his 100point mark for his club.

Otley extended their lead when Adam Malthouse put Joe Graham through from some 20 metres.

Following a scrum just inside their half, Wharfedale gave away a penalty. Rowntree’s aim was true, making the score 16-3 – and leaving them in charge.

Going into the fourth quarter, Wharfedale stepped up their game. A penalty into Otley’s 22 on the right saw Tom Asejevs coming close.

They continued their assault down the lefthand side and, after three penalties, Dan Stockdale was driven over.