Rugby club defeat Salem to stretch lead at top

Barnsley RUFC went eight points clear in Yorkshire League Two with an 18-14 over Bradford Salem in a thrilling top-of-the-table clash on Saturday.

It was the Shaw Laner's first game in February because bad weather had stop them playing the previous two weeks.

Andrew Appleyard gave them the lead on 20 minutes with a try that was converted by Patrick Jensen but Bradford replied in kind five minutes later to make it 7-7.

Scott Hinchliffe touched down two minutes before the break to put Barnsley 12-7 ahead then Jensen's excellent drop goal early in the second half made it 15-7.

But Bradford replied immediately and moved to within one point of the hosts with their second converted try of the game.

Jensen kicked a penalty to make it 18-14 and Barnsley's excellent defence secured the win.

With seven matches left, the Shaw Laners are 11 points clear of West Park Leeds who are just outside the promotion places in third.