Once again Leeds started brightly, and should have taken the lead in the third minute, but Di Bernado missed a simple penalty kick from 30 yards. However we didn't have to wait much longer, (although a lot longer than the previous 2 games), before Leeds won a short line out close to the Worcester line, and Macdonald crashed thorugh to cross the line close to the corner flag. Di Bernado added an excellent conversion into the wind, we were 7 points ahead, and waiting for the inevitable to happen.

Immediately Worcester's big pack applied pressure, and on 14 minutes it proved too strong as Lutui was driven over. Drahm missed the conversion, but Leeds were now having to defend for long spells, and after Benjamin had spilled the ball with the line at his mercy, the same player crossed in the corner on 29 minutes to give the home side the lead for the first time. Again, Drahm missed the conversion, and on 34 minutes Leeds missed a chance to regain the lead when Holtby chased a loose ball into the Warriors 22, but tried to pick the ball up when a kick ahead would have sent him clear. There was still time for Di Bernado to kick another fairly simple penalty before the teams went in for their Bovril with the scores locked at 10 points each.

The second half was a tight uncompromising affair. Di Bernado failed with a drop kick after 41 minutes, and almost just like last week, Leeds seemed to find every way possible to give the ball to Worcester and defend deep in their own territory. At times the presure on Leeds was relentless, but this week their defence held firm, and although there were a couple of scares, especially when Worcester got over the line only to be denied by the TV official, and again when Benjamin dropped the ball when in the clear, Leeds almost grabbed victory with the last play of the match when the ball bobbled about on half way with a few Leeds jerseys in the vicinity. Unfortunately, it was a blue shirt that claimed the ball, and Mr. Barnes, (who by the way had a very good game), called time. So 10 -10 it finished, and the small contingent of Leeds fans who made the journey, cheered their heroes as if they had won the league.

A much improved performance, but again too many basic errors, particularly at the line out, and kicking from hand. Worcester must have had 75% of possession and territory, but really did not seem to have much idea when their forwards could not find a way through. It did prove that you can spend as much money as you like, but you have to spend it well. Having said that, Leeds defence was superb. True tackles were missed in midfield, but the cavalry always arrived in time to squash the danger. From my position high in the East Stand, it was difficult to pick out individuals, but my MoM would go to Mike Macdonald, who never went backwards once, and scored the try. As usual there was 100% effort and determination, but the reality is, this is not enough at this level. Still well done today lads, your defence earned the draw.

Finally, a couple of positives to come out of today. Firstly, next time anybody wants to complain about Headingley, take a drive down to Sixways. The 'path' from the coach to the ground and all the way around the ground resembles a building site, with pot holes filled with water and mud. The perimeter fence and 'turnstiles' are unbelievable for a premiership club, and the two main stands have so many pillars it is not always easy to follow passages of play. Indeed the North Stand is of the temporary type erected at sports venues and pop concerts to increase the capacity.

This proves to me, that off the field we have everything in place to succeed at this level. Lets now work to get it right on the field. Secondly, and you may find this hard to believe, their mascot is just as hideous as our Challenger. All is not yet lost!

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