Boys second half fightback proves in vain

Odsal were lying second-bottom but their league position is somewhat false as they have had several points deducted this season for nonfulfilment of fixtures.

Batley began brightly and good work led to Jayjay Price skipping through the defence and over the opening try after seven minutes.

Mick Dyson was unable to convert and Odsal hit straight back with a try which they improved to edge ahead.

Good defensive work was led by Aaron James and Gavin Davis but Odsal kept up the pressure and crossed for a second converted try.

Batley attempted to gain field position up the slope with good drives from Josh O’Sullivan and Nathan Lumb taking close to the line.

However, Odsal withstood the spell of pressure and broke downfield to register a third converted try which put them 18-4 ahead at half-time.

Batley battled back after the break, with strong runs from Sean Sheard and Sean Whittaker.

Odsal responded and launched another attack, which led to a fourth converted try.

Batley never stopped batting and quick thinking from Adam Bingham saw him intercept a pass on halfway to break through and score in the 49th minute but Dyson was unable to add the goal.

Batley maintained the pressure and gained good ground downfield which resulted in Gavin Davis crashing over to score in the 52nd minute.

Dyson landed the conversion and Batley had hope of producing a fightback.

Aaron James kicked ahead for Ryan Sheard to gather and score, with Dyson’s conversion reducing the deficit to just four points.

Odsal were awarded a penalty at the other end and landed the goal to end Batley’s hopes and seal victory.

Top tackler was shared by Aaron James and Gavin Davis, followed by Sean Sheard and Josh O’Sullivan. Man of the match was Josh O’Sullivan followed by Josh Richter.

Batley travel to second placed New Earswick on Saturday.