Hornets fight back to maintain unbeaten start with win over Keighley

Rochdale Hornets came from behind to secure a 24 to 10 victory over Keighley Cougars and preserve their 100 per cent start to the new Betfred Championship season.

It was a hard fought afternoon at the Crown Oil Arena, played in worsening weather conditions, with the visitors striking first just before the break.

There were debuts for Jack Hansen, who joined from Halifax Panthers earlier in the week, and loan signings Kieran Taylor and Jonny Vaughan. Hansen was named in the starting line up, while Vaughan was called into action early on after Max Flanagan left the field following a head injury assessment.

The first notable moment came inside three minutes when stand off Jamie Dallimore produced a precise 40 20 kick to put the Hornets on the front foot. Despite strong early pressure from Keighley, Rochdale’s goal line defence held firm.

As rain swept across the ground and conditions deteriorated, clear chances became scarce. With half time approaching and the game still scoreless, Keighley found the breakthrough. A loose bounce off a Rochdale player fell kindly for Oliver Whitford, who crossed in the corner to give the visitors a 4 to 0 lead at the interval.

Rochdale responded immediately after the restart. Lewis Hatton powered over against his former club, levelling the scores before Dallimore converted from close range to edge the Hornets in front.

Momentum swung decisively in the home side’s favour. Centre Tom Ashton forced his way over in the corner soon after, and debutant Taylor added a third try when he reacted quickest to a short kick.

With Keighley struggling to contain the pressure, TJ Boyd dived over in the corner with 11 minutes remaining to extend Rochdale’s advantage and put daylight between the sides.

Ian Hardman’s team did not relent and reduced the deficit eight minutes from time when Dylan Proud crossed out wide. Matty Beharrell added the goal, but it proved too little too late.

Dallimore continued to test the Cougars with his kicking game in the closing stages, though there was no further scoring as Rochdale saw out the contest through disciplined defence and controlled possession.

The result keeps Gary Thornton’s side unbeaten and adds another two league points to their tally.