King Cross park will be coached this year by Lee Brooke and Danny Fearon and ably assisted by Andy Law and Paul Wadsworth.
Training is Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6.30pm Outside Club
Saturday 14th November
King Cross Park 36 Wyke 16
(Pennine Division One)
PARK comfortably registered a fifth league win of the season at the expense of the bottom club.
They opened the scoring with a fine try, Lee Gleeson and Craig Syme putting Jack White through a gap to score. Pete Garside added the goal.
Adam Mills added a length of the field effort after collecting a Wyke chip on his own line.
Park were cruising and went 14-0 up when Lee Gleeson, White and Nathan Raynor put Mills in for his second.
Aidon Dewhirst also registered a quick double and Lee Brook goaled the second of them as Park romped into a 26-0 lead.
Wyke had a good spell and scored three tries and one goal to slash the deficit to 10 points but Park finished the stronger.
The visitors hopes were dashed when Dewhirst made a lovely break and Matthew Brown raced 50 yards to score.
Brook goaled and also had a hand in the final try scored by Gareth Schofield.
HALIFAX IRISH "A" 18 KING CROSS PARK "A" 26
Pennine league division 5.
This was a keenly contested derby match played in blustery conditions at Savile park which Park managed to win twice, going into an 18-0 lead at half time and almost surrendering it when some ill discipline and contentious refereeing decisions allowed the Irish to draw level at 18 points each before two late tries for the visitors settled the result.
Both teams started like a house on fire with the forwards knocking each other around trying to gain the upper hand and it was Park who drew first blood with young centre Tom Harnett powering over for the opening try which Ben Copley added the conversion to.
Park's big guns up front Phil Prince, Gaz Smith and Dave Tooth all ran strongly as they gradually got the upper hand with Gaz Clay, Ben Copley and Ben Garnett distributing the ball effectively, Harnett and Jed Davies had too much power and pace in the centres for the home side and Nigel Crouch finished off a flowing move touching down in the left corner after another Harnett break and well timed pass, this time the kick was just too far out and Park were now 10-0 up and looking good for their lead. Straight from the re-start the ball was handed onto Davies who went fully 70 metres brushing off several tacklers for a great solo try.
Jacob Hyde at full back looked to have an extra gear when he joined the attck and made some great surges forwardand Simon Hanson replaced Smith to bring some fresh impetus to the side.
The Irish lost a man to the sin bin for 10 minutes and from the resulting penalty, Copley sliced through a massive gap wide on the right to hand on to young winger Alex Wood who finished off clinically with a try in the right corner. It seemed that every time Park played wide with the ball they found some joy with the tiring Irish defence and with a half time lead of 18-0 things looked optimistic for the second half. Unfortunately, one or two things started going the way of their hosts and the three tries that they replied with were all successfully converted as opposed to Park's one success from four attempts and the Park lads knew that if they didn't tighten things up they could be at risk of throwing away all their first half's good work.
Gareth Stansfield and Dave Tooth made big contributions with the ball and found some decent go forward for Jacob Hyde to link up and score a brilliant try wide on the right with around 7 minutes remaining to re-charge Park's ambition of winning the game.
The Irish lifted themselves in response and the game was drawing to a close when Jed Davies sealed it with his second try of the match bursting through on a typically strong burst near the line. Special mention must go to Gaz Clay who suffered a bad leg injury almost on the final whistle and had to be carried from the field for medical treatment after playing a great game at stand off.
In essence, Park won the game six tries to three and deservedly took the honours and local bragging rights along with the two league points in a hard fought game, and hopefully they can build again on this win after a recent dip in form.
Saturday 3rd October 2009
Pennine league division 5. Report by Colin Smith
KING CROSS PARK "A" 44 points.
KEIGHLEY TOWN "A" 18 points.
Park seconds backed up their derby win at Stainland last week with an emphatic win at home to Keighley Town in front of a healthy sized crowd at Kensington. The hard working forwards laid the platform with props Phil Prince & Gaz Smith taking the ball up well around the ruck and the pace of Nathan Raynor hitting the promptings out wide of Danny Murgatroyd and half back partner Adam Crowther to tear the visiting defence to bits. Mark Oldroyd playing at loose forward was the steadying influence in the forwards and Logan Smith looked sharp at dummy half.
When the ball went wide, Si Crowther linked up well at full back and centres Conrad Townley & Jed Davies were too powerful and caused some real problems on the dry surface and in sunny conditions the handling was a pleasure to watch. Gareth Stansfield made a big impact with his stints off the bench and he was rewarded with a blockbusting try. Adam Milnes was the star of the show with three brilliant long distance tries and other try-scorers were Jed Davies with two and Conrad Townley with one. Mark Oldroyd kicked eight goals to round off the scoring.
Saturday 26th September 2009
Queensbury vs King Cross Park Won 20-24
King Cross Park went to Queensbury on the back of a good win last week but knew things would be tough as today's opponents were unbeaten so far this season and that is how things turned out. Both teams were strong in defence with few breaks made.
It was Park who started the stronger playing down the hill and after good approach work by Stefan Bradwell and Lee Gleeson it was Luke Brown who crashed over from close range to open the scoring, Lee Brook convered.
On fifteen minutes Queensbury hit back. After finding it hard to break the Park defence a neat chip was collected by Ben Marks and he raced in to score Scott Swan converted.
Both sides were pulled for offside in their haste to defend but it was good defence by Stefan Bradwell and Paul Bowen that caused a knock on and Park were back on the attack but as Lee Brook kicked over the ball was gathered by Queensbury's Luke Breancliffe who made a good break beating a couple of men before Aidan Dewhirst brought him down.
Queensbury continued to press and passed the ball down the line on the last tackle and were rewarded with a try in the corner but the conversion was missed.
Park were not about to lie down and Mark Merrick made good ground from his own line and Park continued to attack with back to back sets and it was from one of these that Danny Fearon gave a lovely short pass to Aidan Dewhirst who scored by the posts, Lee Brook converted and Park went in at half time 10-12 up.
Park were under pressure straight from the kick off as Lee Brook knocked on and Park had to drop out from their line. Park survived and another fine break through Fearon and Barrett only halted when Pete Garside dropped the ball with the line beaconing.
The game was tight until sixty minutes when Danny Fearon put a chip over the defence on the last and as the Queensbury defenders paused Matt Brown kicked the ball through and collected and scored by the posts and Lee Brook converted. Queensbury would not give in and struck back with two quick tries one of which was converted to give Queensbury the lead going into the final 10 minutes. Another good break by Dewhirst fed Merrick but Park just couldn't break through. It was going to take something special and Gareth Schofield provided it as he burst through the defence and managed to stretch over for a try to put Park back in front. Queensbury were trying to push themselves but were penalised in front of their posts and Lee Brook goaled to give Park a four point lead and Park managed to hold out for the final two minutes for a hard fought victory.
Saturday 10th May
King Cross park "A" vs Underbank "A" Won 70-4
Thursday 23rd April
Greetland "A" vs King Cross Park"A" won 10-34
King Cross Park won their penultimate game of the league season and whilst they can still finish top have left themselves with a target of beating Underbank on Saturday by a points difference of +62.
Park gave their all against Greetland but were guilty at times of trying too hard and forcing passes in an attempt to score points and it was evident that some were running on empty after their efforts over the last few weeks. I am sure that everyone will be up for one final effort on Saturday.
Points did come however with Michael Gilligan getting four tries and there were also tries from Pete Garside, Adam Milln and Andy Binnswith 3 conversions from Martin Schofield.
Tuesday 14th April
King Cross Park "A" vs Siddal "B" semi final Halifax Supplementary Cup Won 24-18
In front of a large crowd and for the fifth time this season Park overcame opponents from a higher division.
In a game that started evenly with defences on top Park were the first to score after about twenty minutes of stalemate when John Davies cut through the defence to score his customary try his 43rd of the season. Martin Schofield converted. Siddal then started to mount pressure themselves but handling errors and some great defence held them out. It was only amatter of time though before Siddal flung the ball from one side of the park to thye other and found a gap out wide to score. conversion unsucessful.
Siddal maintained the pressure to score agian and take the lead this time converting and the sides turned around still with thwe game in the balance.
Park had drivrn the ball hard in the first half with Paul Bowen and Craig Syme showing up well along with youngsters Nathan Raynor and Andy Binns.
The secdond half was as frantic as the first but Park managed to play the more controlled rugby despite some dubious refereeing decisions for both sides. Park extended their lead through further tries from John Davies again a similar effort to his first as he cut through the defence and rounded the fullback, also Jason Smith dummied his way through but the try of the game came when youngster Adam Milln took a long pass from Schofield and raced in from half way to give Park what looked to be a winning lead at 24 10. Siddal were not finished and threw everything at Park and scored two tries late in the game but Park hung on to what has to be their best result this season.
Looking forward to another tough tie on Saturday which could decide where the league title goes.
Saturday 28th March
Emley Moor "A" vs King Cross Park "A" Won 16-56
King Cross Park maintained their momentum and secured another away win at Emley. On a suprisingly dry pitch they played some very structured and controlled rugby scoring over fifty points for the seventh time this season.
Park played their usual brand of rugby with the forwards all taking the ball forward well, with Jason Smith directing trafic well from acting half. Props John Gilligan and Philip Prince were taking Park forward and were well supported by youngsters Gareth Smith and Nathan Raynor who never shirked their task. As Park opened up play Craig Binns was first to score following good play by Martin Schofield, Tommy Reidy and brother Andy Binns providing an off load in the tackle setting him free.
Park continued to press and the next try came from youngster Adam Milln who went fully fifty metres after being put away by John Gilligan. John Davies also opened his account for the day stepping through the line to score. Another of the young guns Nathan Raynor also got over as he powered his way over the line on the last tackle taking three defenders with him.
Park then got a bit sloppy and allowed Emley a couple tries back as the half closed. This was to be their only charity as in the second half the let rip down the slope and seemed to score at will with tries coming from Pete Garside, John Davies completed his hatrick and took his tally to thirty eight for the season and kept up his achievement of scoring in every game. Philip Prince, Adam Milln, Martin Schofield and Andy Binns also crossed. Tommy Reidy could have got over himself but knocked on with the line in front of him. Martin Schofield chipped in with six goals to complete the scoring.
Park need to keep focussed on the task ahead as they push to win the title.
Saturday 21st March
King Cross Park "A" vs South Bradford Won 60-22
Park ran away with this game as South Bradford tired in the second half. The first half both teams were equally matched and looked like it was going to be a well fought game but Park took control and ran in eleven tries.
Park had the usual mixture of youth and experience both contributing well. Man of the match Andy Binns Jnr worked hard and was involved in a lot of Park's tries. Pete Garside got two tries and Adam Milnn popped up with a great effort collecting the ball from a Park kick off and beating several defenders to score. Andy Binns Snr scored a second half hatrick.
South Bradford worked hard and scored four good tries and it was only good defensive work that prevented more. Park were scoring at will, Luke Brown popped up with two tries, Simon Hanson and John Davies got one each. The last try was the try of the match Gareth Smith, Andrew Binns, Alan palmer and Martin Schofield combing to put Craig Syme in. Martin Schofield kicked eight goals to round off a good afternoon.
Saturday 14th March
Keighley Town vs King Cross Park Won 0-15
King Cross Park "A" vs Slaithewaite "A" Won 30-8
King Cross Park went top of the table for the first time this season as local rivals Greetland did then a favour by beating Wibsey. Although Park did not play their usual brand of attractive rugby in the first half through silly mistakes and countless penalties order was resumed in the second half and they came away as easy winners. Park had to rely on their two potent attacking threats to seal this victory showing the diversity they have in their team 17 year old Adam Milln again proving a handful with another hatrick and veteran John Davies also contributing a brace. Martin Schofeld and Mark Oldroyd controleed things at half back whilst Craig Syme and Craig Binns were tireless in the pack. With six games remaining Park have a chance to secure the title which would be a great reward to many of the players who have had hard times over recent years through lack of numbers.
Saturday 28th February
Moldgreen vs King Cross Park Won 8-22
King Cross park "A" vs Farnley Falcons Won 44-18
Park continued their great league form with a solid performance against one of their title competition preparing well for next weeks cup semi-final against Siddal.
Park knew this could be a tough game from their first encounter earlier in the season and the fact it was a 2nd vs 3rd clash. Playing up the slope Park were out of the blocks quickly with some solid defence. Park also hit their straps in attack with great platforms set by the forwards and some expansive slick play by the backs. Adam Milln continued his try scoring form with his first of three as he burst through out wide and cooly rounded the fullback to score.
Mark Oldroyd was next on the score sheet when on the last tackle Martin Schofield chipped over and he was first to the ball to score.
Debutant Peter Garside was next after a fine Farney spilled the ball and Simon Hanson showed off his football skills and dribbled the ball forward as he chased the ball and with still half the field to go it popped up into the arms of the supporting Garside who strode away to score bringing much relief to Hanson who didn't fancy the sprint.
Adam Milln grabbed his second when great hands close to the line allowed him to squeeze in the corner for his second try.
Although Farnley scored straight after the break Park were in no mood to give this away and it was pretty much one way traffic down the slope in the second half with Park seemingly scoring at will. Tries came from John Davies (2), Nathan Raynor, Craig Binns and John Gilligan. Parked assisted further when Farnley had a player sin binned by young referee Becky Whitely who had a fine game refereeing her first open age game.
Saturday 21st February
Birkenshaw vs King Cross Park Won 18-38
King Cross Park "A" vs Burley Lions Won 56-10
Park bounced back from their disappointment at exiting the cup last week with a sound victory. Unlike last week Park were quick out of the blocks with some solid defence in the first 10 minutes which set them up for the rest of the game. In attack Martin Schofield and Mark Oldroyd were pulling the strings and Park played some excellent structured attcking rugby. There were many who stood out the pack tackled well and drove to excellent positions whilst John Davies and Adam Milln both chipped in with hatricks, two of Millns were fully 50 metres and he could have had a forth but for dropping the ball after a fine break by Andy Binns. Burley never stopped trying and were rewarded with two second half tries but this was a resounding victory and one of Park's best performances this season and will surely stand them in good stead as they push for the title in week to come.
Saturday 14th February
Westgate Wolves "A" vs KXP "A" Lost 36-16
Playing only their second game of 2009 and with several players missing no excuses can be made as Park exited the cup at the quarter final stage. All the players agreed that it has to have been the worst opening 30 minutes of rugby they have played all season as the enthusiastic and youthful Wolves kept turning the ball back inside causing havoc in the midfield and dashed to a 30-0 lead.
What's frustrating in some ways but also shows how far the team has come this season is that this could have been a cricket score but the lads stood up and from 30 minutes onwards dominated the game and bar from a couple of tries that were dissallowed and that opening spell could have reached the semi final.
It was John Davies who started the fightback with atry just before the break that gave Park some lift and although turning round 30 - 6 down it was Paqrk who started to pressure the Wolves line and they had to drop out from their own posts several times as the half began and Park turned the screw. From this pressure it was a kick through on the last and close to the line from Tommy Reidy that allowed Andy Binns to follow up and score after the Wolves defence missed kicked the clearance, Schofield converted again 30-12. Park were causing concern for the home side with all the forwards making inroads into the Wolves defence. Philip Prince took a face pass from Tommy Reidy and found himself through a gap, a very unusal situation and he was pleased the defence got back as he didn't fancy the 50 metre sprint. Next to break was Andy Binns following a long pass from Schofield but the full back pulled him down fifteen yards out then there were the two dissallowed tries which if allarded could have given us a great finale. Park's final score came when from Mark Oldroyd found Andy Binns out wide and he put Adam Milln in at the corner. 30-16.
Park had given everything in the second half to try to make amends for the first 30 minutes and it was unfortunate that they let in a soft try in the last five minutes.
Saturday 25th January
KXP"A" v West Craven Warriors – Suplementary Cup won 16-12 golden point
Playing a team 2 div higher Cross struggled a bit at the beginning of the game to get any field position, until a fine linkup play between Craig Syme and Tommy Reidy got Jed Davies rolling but still they couldn't score after some sustained pressure on thier own line it finally broke and Craven scored a converted try to go in at the half 6 .0 up. When the 2nd half started Cross wer'e right in the faces of Craven and with some great approach play by Martin Schofield and Mark Oldroyd Gareth Stansfield crashed over with Schofield converting 6 a piece. Good line breaks were made by both sides but good scrambling defence kept the score's even until Cross seemed to get the upper hand with strong running from Simon Hansen and Mick Taylor got Cross in good field position and then David Tooth managed to hang on to a pass from Tommy Reidy and scorched over with Schofield converting again Cross led for the 1st time 12 .6 . The game was held up sadly with a Craven player breaking his leg stopping Jed Davies from scoring. When the game got back under way Cross again seemed to be on top but just couldn't put the game away, then with just a few minutes left a missed tackle from King Cross and Craven made a bust, with Adam Milnes chasing back Craven seemed to get a luck pass away and scored under the post's with the try converted the game went into extra time all locked up at 12 .12 . With both sides tired now defences were slowing but still no one could put the game away so it went to golden point from which Cross got the rub of the green and won the toss recieving the ball and drove down the slope and after some good passing rugby got to within the 10 metre line and Jed Davies scooted over for his customary try to seal the the win. It was a great game to watch as the spectator's who stayed to watch even with the long delay will admit some good performances from both sides. young Gareth Smith from the U18's deserve's a special mention for a try saving tackle witch kept Cross in the game, also the welcome return of Jamie Gash along with the ever improving Adam Milnes. The game was played in great spirit in some muddy conditions and credit to both sides for giving a good spectacle of old fashioned rugby league.
Saturday 17th January
King Cross Park vs Birkenshaw Lost 12-17
What a chance Park had of upsetting league leaders Birkenshaw. They were in front until the last fifteen minutes and one mistake let them in for a try. Park heads dropped and it gave Birkenshaw a new lease of life.
Both defences were on top and most of the play was around midfield. Birkenshaw looked like scoring when their winger raced for the corner, but Logan Smith and John Wade got back to take him into touch. A lovely move by Steve Greenwood and Lee Brooke saw Luke Brown go in for a try on his return from injury. Lee Brooke goaled 6-0.
Park were knocking Birkenshaw off their stride and looked the better team. A long kick up field by Lee Brooke saw Logan Smith chase the ball, as Birkenshaw's wingman gathered the ball Smith hit him with a good tackle and he lost the ball. From a quick play the ball Lee Gleeson went in for a try which Brooked goaled 12-0. Birkenshaw were throwing everything at Park and some great defending by Gareth Schofield, Paul Bowen and Jack White kept them out. Park looked like they were going to pull this game off with fifteen minutes left and leading 12-0, then came that one missed tackle which let Birkenshaw score a soft try and bring them back into the game.
Park were hanging on and Birkenshaw were stretching Park's line and it paid off when nearly every player touched the ball before their winger went in at the corner and level the scores at 12 all. Park were hanging on for the draw but Birkenshaw had other ideas and put a drop goal over. It was Park's turn to chase the game as they did started to make some mistakes. Birkenshaw were awarded two penalties to take the game away from Park who only had themselves to blame.
Guiseley Rangers Vs King Cross Park "A" Pennine Supplementary Cup Won 16-22
After a period of four week without a game and after arriving late due to traffic it is fair to say that Park were a little lacking in the first quarter against a side from a division above. Playing down the hill on a very sticky pitch Park were not firing as they normally do and whilst they were making ground in attack the defence was found lacking as Rangers broke and scored two tries, one of which was converted 10-0.
Park were stunned as they had gone into this fixture full of confidence having only lost once all season. They reacted well and started to improve in defence and cause some problems in attack. Firstly Nathan Raynor went over only to be tackled into touch and goal, then the break though came at the end of a move Martin Schofield found Andy Binns out wide on the last tackle. Binns drove for the line but looked to have been pulled down only to release a great ball to Schofield who was backing up and he crashed over 10-6. Park were putting the pressure on, Gareth Stansfield and John Gilligan started to make some good ground. Park were now starting to get on top and they knew they needed more points before playing up the hill in the second half. They were rewarded when from a scrum ten yards from their own line pressure was put on Guiseley and they spilled the ball over their line and MarK Oldroyd was on hand to pounce on the loose ball and score, Schofield again converted 10-12. It looked as though Schofield had unlocked the home team again when this time finding Craig Binns out wide, he went over but then lost the ball as he tried to improve the angle for conversion.
The second half was a real slog with Park defending well but not making much ground up the hill on a very muddy pitch. Guiseley pressured Park and eventually managed to break their line after a neat kick through on the last tackle 16-12. In the final quarter Park dug deep and started to get into the Guiseley half and with about ten minutes remaining got the breakthrough when Martin Schofield sold and outragous dummy from acting half and dived over in the corner to level the scores, then he slotted a great conversion to put Park back in the lead 16-18. Park were not satisfied and pushed again and John Davies finally sealed a great win by crashing over in the corner.
Another cup scalp for Park despite not firing on all cylinders and are now drawn away to Westgate Wolves "A" in the quarter finals.
Saturday 20th December
King Cross Park Vs Keighley Town Won 18-4
Keighley made Park fight all the way for this win. Park thought they were going to have an easy game when they scored in the first five minutes. Steve Greenwood and Lee Brooke put Aidan Dewhirst through a gap to score. Keighley dug their heels in and got amongst Park and forced park into a lot of mistakes. Keighley levelled the scores with two penalty's 4-4. Park were trying hard but everything was going wrong and Keighley looked like they could swing the game aroundand win it.
It was not until the last ten minutes that Park took control. Paul Bowen and Chris Metcalfe drove the ball towards the Keighley line and a quick play the ball by Lee Brooke saw Matthew Brown go in by the posts. The try that killed Keighley off was sensational, Aidan Dewhirst collected the ball on his own line and as the Keighley defenders closed in on him he got a lovely pass out to Jess Sheriffe who raced down the touchline beating man after man to score a great try with both touchlines applauding as he touched down. 14-4 Keighleys heads were down when Aaron Brown broke clear, with the fullback to beat he got the ball out to Steve Greenwood who got a long pass out to Aidan Dewhirst who scored in the corner.
Park deserved their win but had to fight for it.
Underbank "A" vs King Cross Park "A" Won 0-44
After a week off last week due to the weather and despite a few hangovers Park were in no mood to slip up before Christmas and were in great form especially in the first half when they ran in six unanswered tries. Playing up the hill it didn't take long before John Davies broke through and found Craig Binns in support to open the scoring out wide. Martin Schofield duely obliged with a touchline conversion. Park continued to find gaps in the home defence with Oldroyd and Schofield creating much in the centre of the field. Davies again cut through and outpaced the defence from half way but Schofield couldn't manage the conversion and his trusty blades will have to be hung up due to new rules next year. Underbank were full of youth and were very enthusiastic but could not break a resolute Park defence. More interplay between Oldroyd and Schofield found Hanson who in turn found Andy Binns who created an opening for Nathan Raynor to continue his scoring at open age level. Convrsion missed. It was then time for a Park trade mark move with John Gilligan coming onto a short pass from Schofield to go over near the posts, conversion kicked. Binns again broke and put Naynor in for his second try and Davies completed the first half scoring again causing havoc with his power.
Park continued to dominate the second half alothough Underbank never gave in and had a good period of pressure in the last ten minutes but couldn't break the Park line. Although the play was less impressive in the second half as the pitch got really boggy and the previous evenings alcohol took it's toll Park still managed three further tries. Davies completed his hatrick, a fine jinking run from Tommy Reidy saw him beat five or six men before finding Oldfiled in support who scored by the posts, but the best was saved for another youngster Adam Milln who had scooted well all the game and his pace and power saw him break the line on his own 25 and the go the length of the field ghosting around the fullback for good measure.
A great win, excellent play and more youngsters stepping up to the mark, let's hope Park can continue their form after the Chrsitmas break with big cup games against higher league opposition.
Park. Adam Milln, Nathan Raynor, Andy Binns, John Davies, John Brown, Mark Oldroyd, Martin Schofield, Philip Prince, Tommy Reidy, Simon Hanson, John Gilligan, Mick Condon, Craig Binns Subs Craig Syme, Colin Milln, Mick Taylor, Alan Palmer
Saturday 13th December
King Cross Park vs Wyke Lost 8-21
Played in some terrible conditions both teams made a lot of mistakes. The first quarter Park were all over Wyke. They should have scored two tries but were brought back for forward passes. Steve Greenwood and Lee Gleeson put Liam Stead in for a try then Lee Brooke and Michael Gilligan got John Wade clear. Wyke held out and hit Park with a try that stunned them 6-0. Park were all over the place and Wyke took advantage. A high ball saw Michael Gilligan and two Wyke player go for it, Gilligan got the ball but as he went down he got a bad leg injury and was taken to hospital to have it stiched up. With the ball loose on the ground a Wyke player touched down for a try.12-0. The second half stepped up a gear, Park had Wyke on the back foot. A lovely move by Paul Bowen and Andy Boocock saw Logan Smith race for the corner only to be bundled into touch. At last park got on the score sheet when AAron Brown beat three men to score 12-4. Wyke were defending well and everytime they got the ball they wee clearing it up field. They were making it hard for Park. They got a penalty and a drop goal 15-4. One last push by Park saw Jack White, Steve Greenwood and Lee Brooke carve a gap for Liam Stead to score out wide 15-8. It wasn't enough as Wyke killed the game off with a try in the last minute 21-8. On the day Wyke had the better gameplan and they deserved their win.
Saturday 6th December
Kippax vs King Cross Park Lost 26-10
Park were in this game for sixty minutes. They had the league leaders rattled, but a silly decision changed the game. Park were awarded a penalty for offside only for the referee to change his mind and award it to Kippax. With Park players arguing with the referee the Kippax scrum half took a quick tap to go in under the posts. Park's heads dropped and Kippax took full advantage of it and ran in two more tries.
Kippax opened up in fine style, you could see why they were top of the league. They scored agood try when they stretched the Park defence to score out wide. Park settled down and were putting Kippax under a lot of pressure. A long kick by Danny Fearon was gathered by Michael Gilligan and with only the fullback to beat he fumbled his pass out to Logan Smith and a grreat chance was lost. Lee Brooke and Lee Gleeson put Liam Stead through a gap but he was tackled inches short of the line. A good move by Kippax halfbacks saw their winger race in for a try 10-0. Park hit back at Kippax with Jack White and Chris Metcalfe putting Jess Sheriffe through a gap to score in the corner. 10-4. Park were having a good spell Paul Bowen, Conrad Townley and John Wade drove the ball deep into the Kippax half, on the sixth tackle Danny Fearon chipped the ball through for Michael Gilligan to score, Sheriffr converting 10-10.
Park looked as though they could pull this game off as they were giving Kippax a real fight but then the decision came and put an end to their dream.
King Cross Park "A" vs Greetland "A" Won 16-6
King Cross Park maintained their winning ways against a spirited Greetland team containing several of their first team who didn't have a game. This didn't effect Park who had shuffled the team due to injury and unavailability of several players. The first twenty minutes were a typical local derby with defences on top and several handling errors from both sides. Park thought they had opened the scoring when Howard Hewitson Townley broke down the right jinked inside only to be held up over the line. Park were now creating chances and is wasn't long before John Davies extended his tally for the season with a typical strong burst to score out wide, Martin Scofield unsuccessful with the conversion.
The second half saw the introduction of 17 year old debutant Adam Milln at full back and it didn't take him long to show what a prospect he is going to be showing great strength, pace and determination from the off this was capped by a great run as he beat several opponents only to be literally collored as it looked as though he had broke clear. Moments later it was another youngster Nathan Raynor who opened his open age account finishing a great move that had involved Stephen Gray selling a dummy before releasing Jason MacDonald who drew the fullback and released Raynor to score under the posts, Schofield converting. Park were on top at this stage and Davies claimed his second again bursting through the Greetland defence to score under the posta and Schofield converted again. In the final quarter Greetland were rewarded for their efforts when the acting half scooted over close to the Park line making the final score 16-6
Saturday 22nd November
Ackworth Jaguars vs King Cross Park Drew 22-22
Pennine League Supplementary Cup
King Cross park "A" vs Keighley Albion "A" Won 28-22
For the second time in recent weeks Park came up against a Keighley side two divisions higher than themselves in a cup competition. Again Park showed that they were up for the challenge against a vocal and physical Keighley side. With Keighley having the advantage of the slope in the first half they were strong from the kick off with strong drives and firm defence for the first quarter but Park stood up well to this with Stephen Gray and Craig Syme to the fore in the forwards. Mark Oldroyd created the first Park attack bursting through but lacking support and then Martin Schofield giving a long ball to Andy Binns out wide who sliced the the defensive line and then cut inside the fullback to open the scoring under the sticks taking his seasons tally to fifteen, Martin Schofield converting 6-0. Albion hit back almost straight away with a try of their own when they broke the Park defence out on the right but could not convert 6-4. The game remained tight with defences on top but before half time Park's other try machine John Davies cut through to score Park's second and again Martin Schofield adding the extras. As half time approached Jason MacDonald jinked his way through the Albion defence and only had to find Andy Binns in support to extend Park's lead but he somehow lost the ball trying to make the decisive pass. Half time 12-4.
After the break Albion upped the ante and opened the scoring on the wide right the scores were close at 12-10. Park were playing the field well and took the initiative again with Davies causing all sorts of problems for visitors and soon added his second which was again converted by Schofield extending the lead to 18-10 and it was not long before he completed his hat trick, his third in consecutive games and taking his season tally to nineteen, his pace and power proving essential, the trusty Schofield adding the conversion and Park must have thought game over at 24-10. Albion were having none of that and after Park had Simon Hanson sin binned for back chat they took advantage of their superior numbers and the fact that Park were tiring a little to score two quick converted tries to bring the scores close at 24-20 and it looked like Park may throw this one away. They didn't and dug in well with excellent defence from Craig Binns and John Brown on the right and with Andy Binns having moved to full back he made a last gasp one on one to keep the Park line safe. There were also good pressure reducing runs from Philip Prince who took a nice inside ball from Oldroyd to make forty metres and alos Andy Binns who cut through again only to be dragged down after making another forty metres. The scoring however was completed by the boot of Martin Schofield who completed a faultless afternoon with two well taken penalties to stretch the lead and ultimately complete a fantastic afternoon for the home side.All the players should be proud of their efforts today including debutant 16year old Nathan Raynor playing his first open age game.
Park: Martin Pilkington, Howard H-Townlet, Andy Binns, John Davies, John Brown, Mark Oldroyd, Martin Schofield, Philip Prince, Adrian Taylor, Stephen Gray, Gareth Smith, Craig Syme, Craig Binns Subs Simon Hanson, Colin Milln, Jason MacDonald and Nathan Raynor
Saturday 15th November
King Cross Park "A" vs Whitworth Spartans "A" Won 52-0
On the day Whitworth were no match for Park who ran in nine tries without reply. Martin Schofield was in great form and was involved in all of the tries and kicked eight goals, John Davies got a hatrick and Andy Binns got two tries.
The only time Whitworth looked like scoring, with a two man overlap Colin Milln intercepted to race the full length of the field. Logan Smith and Gareth Smith put John Brown through a gap to score.
The last try was the pick of the game when nearly every player touched the ball for Martin Pilkington to score. Whitworth a very young side never gave in but Parks' defence was too strong for them.
Saturday 8th November
King Cross Park vs Brighouse Rangers Halifax Cup Lost 34-38 AET Sudden Death
This game had everything for a cup match, it went into extra time and then golden point. Park opened the scoring when Stevie Greenwood chipped through for Michael Gilligan to follow up and score wide out. Brighouse hit back when Alex Young beat two defenders to score in the cornder 6-4. Park were finding gaps, Lee Brooke and Lee Gleeson put Aaron Brown into a gap only to lose the ball as he went over the line. Chris Metcalfe and Conrad Townley did the ground work for Luke Brown to go in for a try 12-4.
Brighouse would not give in and hit back with a try when Patrick Murray scored out wide 12-8. The game was end to end, Danny Fearon and Lee Brooke combined well to send Liam Stead in 18-8. Brighouse got their act together and scored four tries through Alex Young, Gary Midgley, Jamie Donnelly and lee Marriot 18-28.
Park hit back, a well worked move by Logan Smith, Lee Brooke and Danny Fearon saw Liam Stead go in for his second try 24-28. Parks forwards were pounding the Brighouse line, Chris Metcalfe, Jason MacDonald and Chris Kelliher all went close. A quick play the ball saw Lee Gleeson put Michael Gilligan in for a try and level the scores 28-28. With five minutes remaining Alex Young scored his third try and looked to have sealed the victory for Brighouse 28-34. One last effort by Park and Danny Fearon, Lee Brooke and Aaron Brown carved a gap for Luke Brown to go in for his second and level the scores at 34-34.
In extra time Park were all over Brighouse but could not get over the line. Danny Fearon hit the post with a drop goal attempt. Park looked to have sealed the game, Danny Fearon, Lee Brooke and Lee Gleeson broke clear and with only one man to beat Ben Collins intercepted to race the length of the field to score the winning try 34-38
South Bradford vs King Cross Park "A" Won 10-48
KXP made the short trip to South Bradford for their fourth away trip in a row having reshuffled the side due to a couple of unavailabilities and first team call ups but this made no difference to the performance. As usual Park lost the age battle coming up against a youthful and enthusiastic South Bradford but they didn't allow this to influence them as their experience told all over the park. Andy Binns was first to score after good approach work by John Davies,Binns darted over from acting half for a soft try which Mark Oldroyd converted.
South Bradford then had a spell of pressure on Parks lne and had several sets of six but the Park defence held tight and Souths couldn't break it down with several last gasp tackles from Howard Hewitson-Townley and Mick Condon. on the left and Craig Binns and John Brown on the right.
John Davies was causing havoc as usual despite playing stand off this week and crashed through for a try himself. Next to score was another veteran John Gilligan who burst through the defence to score under the sticks.
The experience was starting to take contol and when Davies broke through again he drew the fullback and gave a simple Pass for Andy Binns to go under the posts.
Just when souths thought things couldn't get any worse Park brought on Gareth Stansfield and they just couldn't cope with his size and power as he swatted defenders off at will for a great try.
As the second half started Souths picked up their game and pressured the Park line and were rewarded with a somewhat debatable try in the left corner when Liam Price was given a try despite seemingly being put into touch with the corner flag. Park reacted well and John Davies scored straight away bursting through some weak tackling. It was then Souths turn again when Howard Townley lost the ball in a tackle and James Lynch scooped up the ball to go under the sticks. Park alledged the ball had been lost in a two on one tackle but the referee hadn't seen it and awarded the try. Park then shut shop and rammed home the victory with Stansfield scoring his second, again using his size and despite shouts from the home crowd of "lift him up", the Souths defenders couldn't stop him from close range.
In the final ten Park pushed on with John Davies completing his hatrick and also Andy Binns taking his tally to three after a great run and pass from Craig Syme.
Next week we return to a home fixture, at last.
Saturday 1st November
Keighley Town "A" vs King Cross Park "A" Halifax Supplementary Cup Won 22-38
KXP came into this cup tie full of confidence on the back of a great winning run and with Keighley being in the lower half of the table although two divisions above felt they could win.
Park were set back after about five minutes when a chip over on the last took and awkward bounce and Keighley were in front. Park responded straight away with Craig Binns breaking down the left before dummying the fullback to score. Next to score for Park was Jason MacDonald after fine work by Mark Oldroyd, MacDonald cut throughthe defence to score. John Davies was causing trouble with his barnstorming running in the right centre and was rewarded with two tries and the influential Martin Schofield added a try for good measure as well as five conversions. In the second half Park again were playing some good rugby and scored when Mark Oldroyd backed up John Gilligan to score by the posts off a training field move. Andy Binns completed the try scoring dummying his way through the defence.
Team Martin Pilkington, John Brown, John Davies, Andy Binns, Howard Hewitson Townley, Mark Oldroyd, Martin Schofield, Mick Taylor, Adrian Taylor, Simon Hanson, Gareth Smith, Jason MacDonald, Craig Binns Subs, John Gilligan , Gareth Stansfield, Chris Kelliher, Colin Milln
Saturday 25th October
Dodworth vs King Cross Park Won 0-14
Park claimed two more p[oints in this bottom of the table clash. It was park's defencive work that kept Dodworth out, their big forwards pounded Park's line but great tackling from Luke Brown, Andy Boocock and Chris Metcalfe kept them out. Park opened the scorewhen Lee Gleeson and Lee Brooke put Liam Stead through a gap to score by the posts. Lee Brooke added the goal.Dodworth were trying everything to break Park's line, their wingman looked like scoring but Logan Smith and Mark Merrick got back to take him into touch. PArk started to dominate the game, a lovely move by Lee Brooke Aaron Brown and Liam Stead saw Michael Gilligan go over only to be brought back for a forward pass. The pressure paid off when Lee Brooke put Michael gilligan through a gap to score under the sticks, Brooke goaled. Park's line held out as Dodworth did everything to score but Lee Brooke kicked a penalty to seal the game.
Slaithwaite "A" vs King Cross Park "A" Won 10-32
Despite missing five regular players and in boggy and windy conditions Park kept up their great form with another comfortable away victory. Playing a youthful Slaithwaite side Park had the experience to play the conditions well and although both side did still the ball is was park who played a tight game and tackled well. Martin Schofield and Mark Oldroyd were pulling the strings which saw Craig Binns score a well earned hat-trick of tries closely followed by John Davies with two. The best try was saved until well into the second half when Andy Binns broke down the right only to be hauled down fifteen metres out, the ballwas then swung left where a galloping Adie Taylor hit the ball at pace to crash through three defenders to score. Slaithwaite did manage a couple of tries themselves , one for each of their halfbacks and they both followed Park mistakes. Although many of the Park team are turned 40 two of their youngsters Gareth Smith and debutant Matty Brason had fine games.
Saturday 18th October
King Cross Park vs Emley Moor Won 32-10
Luke Brown produced a stunning performance to get Park their first win of the season against top of the table Emley Moor. He scored a great try but it was his all round work that Emley couldn't handle. Park got off to a great start when Stevie Greenwood chipped through for Liam Stead to score wide out. Another chip from Lee Brooke saw Matthew Brown go in by the posts. Emley settled down and were throwing at park, Emley looked to have scored when their wing man broke but a great double tackle by Michael Gilligan and Logan Smith took him into touch.
Emleys pressure paid off when Justin Ackroyd beat two men to score. A great move by Craig Syme, Lee Gleeson and Liam Stead saw Aaron Brown go over the line only to lose the ball and a great chance was lost. Park were playing some good rugby and Lee Brooke and Stevie Greenwood were finding holes in the Emley defence and it paid off when Danny Fearon put Liam Stead in for his second try. Emley scored a great try when nearly every player touched the ball for the winger to score. Emley were having a good spell Michael Gilligan and Luke Brown pulled off two try saving tackles on Parks line. In the last ten minutes Park sensed victory and were not going to let it slip, strong runs from Chris Metcalfe and Stefan Bradwell broke Emleys line for Mark Merrick to score. Park were well on top now and Emley were tiring, Park took advantage of it when John Wade and Luke Brown put Aaron Brown in the corner for a try. Park sealed the game when Lee Brooke sold a dummy to race fifty yards for a try and gave Park a well deserved victory.
Farnley Falcons vs King Cross Park "A" Won 16-46
Following a minutes silence for Richard Hellowell who was tragically killed last week it was obvious from the off that Park were in no mood to lose this game despite Farnley being unbeaten this season and raced into a first quarter 16-0 lead and never looked back. Park played some excellent attacking football with Mark Oldroyd and Martin Schofield pulling the strings. Although Farnley did get on the scoreboard it was mainly after a Park mistake and the result was never really in danger. Other strong performances came from Gareth Stansfield(Jordy) making his Park debut, whose strong runs took the team forward. Conrad Hewitson-Townley also worked tirelessly from loose forward and was rewarded with a couple of tries and youngster Gareth Smith also gave his best performance of the season in both attack and defence and he too scored after backing up a John Gilligan break he took a pass to raced half the field to score. With some key players missing this week this is a great result and should cause the coaches selection dificulties next week.
KXP - Martin Pilkington, Howard Hewitsin-Townley, Andy Binns, John Davies, John Brown, Mark Oldroyd, Martin Schofield, Gareth Stansfield, Adrian Taylor, Mick Taylor, Alan Palmer, Gareth Smith, Conrad Hewitson-Townley Subs, John Gilligan, Colin Milln, Philip Prince
Saturday 27th September
King Cross Park vs Kippax Welfare Lost 0-24
Park played really well in this game only to get nothing out of it. Kippax were a very well drilled side who tackled well to keep Park out. A good move by Stevie Greenwoodand Lee Brooke saw Michael Gilligan lose the ball as he went over the line. Kippax opened the score when Andy Walker split Park's defence to race thirty yards for a try.
Park looked to have scored when Stevie Greenwood, Lee Brooke and Lee Gleeson put Michael Gilligan over only to be pulled back for a forward pass. Kippax scored again when Park gave away a silly penalty. A quick tap saw Mark Poswell dive over the line. Park were having their moments, Liam stead and gareth Schofield put Arnie Brown in the clear but the Kippax fullback Richard Stone did a great tackle on him to stop him scoring.
Park had a man sinbinned and Kippax took full advantage of it to stretch Park and score two tries wide out. Kippax should have scored again a great move by Andy Walker and Dean Ripley saw Dan Farr go clear as he raced for the corner. Logan Smith and Liam Stead got back to complete a great double tackle to take him into touch. Kippax scored again when Dan Peel dived over from a play the ball to seal the game. Park gave their all in this game, but take nothing away from Kippax who tackled well to keep a clean sheet.
King Cross Park "A" vs Emley Moor "A" Won 56-34
This was a case both sides being able to score but not good on defence. Park pulled away saveral times only to be clawed back by their comparative youthful opposition who just wouldn't give in.
KXP Martin Pilkington, John Brown, Andy Binns, John Davies, Howard Townley, Martin Schofield, Mark Oldroyd, Simon Hanson, Adrian Taylor, John Gilligan, Colin Milne, Alan Palmer, Dave Tooth Sub Michael Taylor
Saturday 20th September
West Bowling Vs King Cross Park Lost 42-22
For sixty minutes of the game Park were the best team. Silly mistakes cost them dearly. Park were on Bowling's line twice and Bowling's wingman picked up loose balls to race eighty yards for tries.
A nice move by Paul Bowen, Lee Brooke and Stevie Greenwood saw Michael Gilligan go in for a try. Arnie Brown made a break down the middle, a quick play the ball saw Danny Fearon go in for a try and Park were back in the game. park started to give away silliy penalties and Bowling punished thenm with two tries.Park hit back with a try when Logan Smith, Liam Stead and Stefan Bradwell put Matthew Brown in. Park kept on attacking and it paid off when Gareth Schofield and Michael Gilligan put Danny Fearon in for his second try and bring Park level with Bowling.In the last twenty minutes Park ran out of steam and Bowling took full advantage of it to race in three tries and kill Park off.
KXP: Michael Gilligan, Logan Smith, Matthew Brown, Conrad Townley, Jon Wade, Stevie Greenwood, Lee Brooke, Paul Bowen, Andrew Boocock, Chris Metcalfe, Stephen Gray, Arnie Brown, Gareth Schofield Subs: Danny Fearon, Craig Syme, Stefan Bradwell
Wibsey "A" vs King Cross Park "A" Lost 56-14
KXP: Martin Pilkington, John Brown, Andy Binns, John Davies, John Bates, Martin Schofield, Tommy Reidy, Philip Prince, Adrian Taylor, Simon Hanson, Craig Binns, Dave Tooth, Mark Oldroyd Subs: Gareth Smith, John Gilligan, Colin Milne & Mick Taylor
Saturday 13th September
Illingworth vs King Cross Park Lost 14-12
KXP: Michael Gilligan, Logan Smith, Mattew Brown, Liam Stead, Jon Wade, Danny Fearon, Lee Brooke, Paul Bowen, Lee Gleeson, Stefan Bradwell, Arnie Brown , Gareth Schofield Subs: Mark Merrick, Stephen Gray, Craig Syme & Chris Metcalfe
King Cross Park "A" vs West Leeds "A" Won 50 - 12
KXP: Martin Pilkington, Alex Wood, Andy Binns, John Davies, Howard Hewitson- Townley, Mark Oldroyd, Tommy Reidy, Philip Prince, Simon Hanson, Gareth Smith, , Craig Binns Subs: Mick Condon, Colin Milne, Alan Palmer, John Gilligan
Scorers Tries Mark Oldroyd, Simon Hanson, John Bates, John Davies, Gareth Smith (2), Andy Binns(2) & Dave Tooth Goals Tommy Reidy (7)
Saturday 6th September
KXP "A" vs Illingworth "A" Won 52 - 12
KXP: Liam Stead, Martin Pilkington, Andy Binns, John Davies, John Wade, Stevie Greenwood, Mark Oldroyd, Paul Bowen, Logan Smith, John Gilligan, Arnie Brown, Conrad Townley, Gareth Schofield Subs: Gareth Smith, Simon Hanson, Michael Taylor, Alex Wood
Saturday 16th August
KXP vs Keighley Albion 26-46
With the season only weeks away this was the first pre season hit out for both sides. Albion arrived with about 25 players mixing their first and second teams whilst KXP were a little down on numbers dueto holidays and cricket and fielded first, second and some junior players.
The game was played over four quarters in great spirit. It is fair to saythat KXP were left in the ressing rooms in the first quarter with Albion running in several un-answered tries at will. But after weathering the storm and recieving a few words of encouragement, KXP began to compete and it is fair to say the the remaining three quarters were fairly evenly matched and if Park had have turned up in the first quarter the game may have been closer.
A good run out for the lads with some of the youngsters showing that they are more than ready to compete at open age level against a team from a higher level.
We now look forward to a date next week with Blackpool Scorpions.
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