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Despite crossing for four tries, Cleckheaton RUFC were edged out in a thrilling West Yorkshire derby in Regional One North East.

After drawing with Sandal earlier in the season it was another cracking game for the supporters in a sizeable crowd, but Cleckheaton lost 41-31.

It was Sandal who put the first points on the board with Jake Adams’ penalty. Cleckheaton’s response was swift as a Dale Breakwell penalty was followed by him converting Jack Marshall’s try.

But from the resumption they infringed and Alex Edler found a gap to score for the hosts. With Jake Adams adding the extras it was level again.

Cleckheaton players try to stop a Sandal attack. Picture: Scott Merrylees

Four minutes later Sandal were in again, Joey Allott diving over with Adams converting.

Another try swiftly followed as Austen Thompson made a telling break, Scott McGregor and Jake Adams took the move on and Allott coasted in for his second.

Adams converted then added a penalty to make it 27-10 after 28 minutes.

Undaunted, Cleckheaton hit back with Dan Howarth scoring and Breakwell adding the extras.

Cleckheaton players are scattered by a Sandal break. Picture: Scott Merrylees

But with half-time looming a yellow card sent them down to 14 men and Sandal took advantage with Thompson forcing his way over to make it 34-17 at the interval.

Cleckheaton RUFC lose out to title challengers despite battling display

Cleckheaton reduced their deficit down to three points early in the second half with a revival that brought a second try for Howarth and another from Brad Marsden, with both goaled by Breakwell.

But home nerves were eased when Scott McGregor went over for a match clinching try and Cleck hopes went when they had a player red carded.

Cleckheaton lose out in exciting Yorkshire derby against Sandal