West Hartlepool 49, Cleckheaton 5 A much-depleted Cleck had to make six enforced changes from the previous weeks’ selection as they took on the league leaders, who had to win to claim the title.
Despite a competitive first half, when the visitors fought gamely for parity in the forwards, Cleck’s inevitable lack of cohesion proved their downfall.
West ran away with the game in the last quarter, scoring six tries, only two of which were converted.
However, the visitors showed great spirit in adversity with the usual wholehearted display from Richard Piper and a solid scrum display.
Cleck’s much-deserved score came in the final minute when their forwards created field position and the ball was moved swiftly to the wing for Martin Woodhead to dive over in the corner.
Ross Hayden missed the difficult conversion but Cleck could hold their heads high.
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