Harrogate 15, Otley 10

Otley took a host of supporters, helping to create a standard for attendance at Harrogate’s new Rudding Lane ground.

But they left disappointed that their team came away with just a losing bonus point in this National League Two North clash after a scoreless first half when choosing to play into a stiff wind, but being unable to benefit when they had the use of it.

Using the conditions well, Harrogate kept Otley pinned in their own half with the aid of a succession of penalties.

But for long periods their lively attacks met a brick wall and kicker Lewis Minikin was off the mark with a couple of penalty shots.

Otley were optimistic at halkf-time but it was Harrogate who made the confident start and, running a turnover on their 22, they found their opponents short of defenders, Minikin racing in from halfway.

Suitably roused, the visitors began to put pressure on the home line, No 8 Freddie Watson eventually getting over for fly half Joshua Cruise to put them ahead with the conversion.

Otley were beginning to look comfortable but an astute kick by fly half Barry Frost had them in disarray and Minikin was given an easy penalty.

On 76 minutes, they moved further ahead when lock Andy Boyde put full back Henry Parrish in at the corner.

Awarded a kick 45 metres out and being advised it was the final minute, Cruise went for the posts and salvaged a losing bonus point for Otley.