Bradford Salem 30, Keighley 25.

KEIGHLEY'S run of poor form continued with an humiliating defeat against a lively Salem.

The side seems unable to raise its game for non-league fixtures and while it was without both first choice second row forwards Simon Atkin and Darren Close and centre Danny Mavro, all of whom were late withdrawals, this is no excuse for a slipshod performance.

On a blustery afternoon Keighley began with some enterprising open rugby with winger Nick Wright catching the eye with his elusive running. Keighley's early pressure however brought no reward and they were rocked by a try by winger Chris Luxton who took advantage of an aberration by referee Neil Clarke to cross for a try converted by Andy Dalton.

The locals came back strongly and centre Kevin Young was rewarded for some strong running with a try conmverted by stand-off John Harrison.

Keighley's enthusiasm in attack was not matched by their hesitancy and reluctance in defence and before half-time, after a penalty goal by Dalton, Dan Scarborough capitalised on a disorganised visitors' defence to claim a second try which Dalton again improved.

Once more Keighley took play to the home side and were rewarded with a try by scrum-half Martin Uren from close range after some determined forward play spearheaded by Neil Marklew and flanker Mark Lister.

A drop goal by Harrison early in the second half reduced arrears to two points but Keighley went further behind following a fine try by Salem full-back Joe Simpson. He has adapted well to Union after spells with Bradford Bulls, Cougars and Dewsbury Rams and his elusive running from defence was a constant threat.

A second penalty goal by Dalton and a second try for Luxton after Simpson's break gave Salem a 10 points lead.

Again Keighley rallied firstly through a penalty goal by Harrison and then with a try by Mark Lister. Harrison's conversion brought Keighley to within a single score for victory but a determined Salem hung on for a well-deserved win.

With important league games looming it is hoped Keighley can rediscover their early season form although there are worrying injuries to key forward Darren Close and scrum-half Martin Uren.

n After some poor performances in recent non-league encounters, Keighley make changes for tomorrow's return to league action at Utley.

The club has what it calls a 'vital game' against visitors from Goole who are just a point or so below them. The locals went down narrowly at Goole against a big strong back row and after being disrupted by injuries, and are anxious to make amends.

Danny Mavro comes in at centre with Richard Emmott moving to wing. Nick Wright retains his place on the wing after coming in last week as a late replacement.

The second row pairing of Darren Close and Simon Atkin is back after both missed the last game. Chris Weatherill is also back at No 8.

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