Goole extended their winning run to five matches with another try bonus-point victory over bottom-of-the-table Leos in an entertaining and highly competitive encounter. Despite the eventual scoreline, the home side refused to fade, responding each time Goole threatened to pull clear.
From the kick-off, Goole set a high tempo, applying early pressure that Leos initially struggled to contain. The breakthrough came after 10 minutes, Ashton Neal crossing from close range following a well-executed five-metre lineout.
However, Goole were unable to build on their early lead. Opting to take a quick tap penalty rather than an easy three points, they lost possession and were punished as Leos advanced upfield to level the score at 5–5.
The response was immediate. Strong work from the second-row pairing saw Craig Hutton provide the final pass for Eddie Newsum to score, with Rhys Moore adding the conversion to make it 5–12.
As the half drew to a close, the game opened up. A handling error gifted Leos a second try to level at 12–12, but Goole had the final say before the interval. Matty Lill produced a fine solo effort, converted by Moore, to send the visitors in at 12–19.
The second half began in similar fashion, with Goole dominating territory but failing to fully capitalise on their opportunities. Josh Malcolmson crossed for the bonus-point fourth try, again converted by Moore, yet further chances went begging—most notably after a break from Lill exposed the Leos defence.
At 12–26, Goole appeared in control but were unable to put the game beyond doubt. Missed opportunities and lapses in defence allowed Leos back into the contest, reducing the deficit to 17–26 and keeping the pressure on.
Goole responded through James Walton, who powered over from close range following a tap penalty, with Moore converting to extend the lead to 17–33. Yet once again, Leos refused to relent, securing their own bonus-point try to narrow the score to 24–33 and raise the prospect of a late comeback.
To their credit, Goole reasserted control in the final quarter. Good work along the touchline involving Greaves, Malcolmson and Pearson created the platform for Craig Hutton to score, with Moore converting to make it 24–40.
Leos added a fifth try as Goole’s defence again proved too passive, before Raymond Coates rounded off the scoring with a late try to seal a 45–29 victory.
This was a match that will concern defensive coaches but delight spectators, with 12 tries shared between two committed sides. Goole can take plenty of positives from their attacking play, with effective use of the bench and contributions from across the squad.
Josh Malcolmson was named Goole’s Man of the Match by the opposition, although his opposite winger also impressed for Leos. While the unbeaten run continues, Goole will be aware that defensive improvements are needed as they prepare to face Old Rishworthians at Westfield Banks next Saturday.