ALBION CATS took another decisive step towards the Premier Division with a hard fought victory over a strong Milford side.

Both sides struggled to retain possession in difficult conditions, but Keighley had the better of the opening exchanges and pinned Milford in their own half for long periods. Sarah Cartwright was held on the line, but from the resulting play Saima Hussein dummied to dive over in the corner.

Milford's lively scrum half darted over from the base of the scrum and the conversion put them ahead against the run of play, but with half time approaching Laura Ackroyd created the space for Sarah Cartwright to race in under the posts and Ackroyd added the conversion.

From the restart there was still time for Milford to punish a Cats infringement and bring the score back to 10-8.

The second half continued with both defences on top and the slippery ball made flowing rugby impossible. Eventually Milford's pressure told bringing them a converted try.

With the clock ticking away Keighley's unbeaten home record looked in danger, but pack leader Sarah Walsh urged her forwards on and centre Leanne Ludlam created havoc with her strong runs. Eventually skipper Ackroyd made the decisive move, holding off three defenders to score near the posts and coolly converted to secure a superb victory.

Keira Burns took the player of the match award for her tackling display.

This Sunday they have their most important match of the season, when they travel to Hull Dockers in the semi-final of the Challenge Cup Plate.

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