Match Reports
Morley go down again
Wednesday 7th December 2011
Bradford & Bingley 17 Morley 11
MORLEY produced a gallant effort but it wasn't enough to return from Wagon Lane with a much needed away win.
Although Morley managed to collect a bonus point, the Maroons remain just two points above the SSE National League Three North relegation zone after Penrith's narrow defeat to Birkenhead Park.
This Derby was never going to be a classic as wind, rain and hail lashed the ground for the majority of the game.
The terrible conditions meant there was little chance for either side to play flowing rugby.
However, Morley started brightly and had the better of the opening quarter.
Simon Bradshaw edged Morley ahead with a seventh minute penalty and the Maroon's leading points scorer landed a second penalty after 17 minutes to give the visitors a deserved 6-0 lead.
Bradford & Bingley gradually began to get a foothold in the game and Phil Greaves set off on a storming run towards the line, bulldozing through a Morley tackler to score after 28 minutes, and Gavin Stead's conversion gave the Bees a slender 7-6 lead.
Another wintry shower before the interval sent supporters scurrying to the clubhouse to warm up but there was real hope among the Morley contingent that they could get something from the game.
The home side came out at the start of the second half intent on putting their visitors under pressure and they were rewarded when Richard Scull touched down after 47 minutes. The Bees attacked again but Simon Bradshaw was alert to intercept a pass and raced away to score his seventh try of the season.
Although he was unable to add the conversion, Morley were right back in the game at 12-11. Solid Bees defending prevented Morley from maintaining any consistent threat to the home line, and when Stewart Brewer ploughed over in the 62 minute, it helped put the game beyond the visitors reach.
Morley dug deep for the remaining 20 minutes and did well to prevent the home side adding an important fourth try to collect a valuable losing bonus point.