A trip to the local was a key factor in getting Ilkley's promotion-chasing squad in the right frame of mind for last Saturday’s 46-7 win over Old Brodleians.

Coach Rhys Morgan had spelt out last week the need for his squad to relax and enjoy their rugby more, so last Thursday he put them through a short training session then took them to a local pub.

“It’s not something that we are going to do regularly, but it was important just to get the players togethe rto relax and on this occasion it did the trick.

“There was far less self-inflicted pressure in our play and even I was smiling at the end of the game,” he joked.

“I am not one who is easily satisfied because I am always looking for things to improve on, but I was pleased with the way we played.

“We played some good rugby and there was no sloppy second half performance like at Knottingley,” he added.

Ilkley, who are second in Yorkshire One after six straight wins, have a testing trip to Pontefract on Saturday.

“They are always tough opponents on their own ground so we need to ensure that we get our focus right,” said Morgan.

Skipper Stuart Vincent could come into consideration for a return on Saturday after a hamstring injury, but former Otley player Ryan Duckett impressed against Old Brodleians at full back.

Morgan said:”Vinny has been telling me not to forget him, and it is good that we have players itching to get back into the side.”

Another player getting in the coach’s ear this week has been No8 Iain McKenzie who scored three tries against Old Brodleians. “He has reminded me a few times,” joked Morgan, Ilkley’s coach believes his back row of McKenzie, Ollie Renton and Nathan Bland is one of the best in Yorkshire One and he said: “It is great to have players of their ability and experience in our side.

“They can have a big influence on how we do this season.”