UNDERBANK were hit by a last-gasp try from speedy stand-off Jamie Nicholson as they went down to a very painful Conference National defeat at fourth-placed Featherstone Lions.
The 12-10 reversal means it is still unclear whether Rangers will make the play-offs, although a sixth bonus point has kept them well in the hunt.
The result put coach Ritchie Hawkyard’s side level with Gateshead Storm, who sit in sixth position in the league table, just two points ahead of Hemel Stags in seventh.
The Holmfirth-based club have two games remaining to secure a spot in the end-of-season competition.
Underbank have suffered nine defeats out of their 16 league games this season.
And team manager Neil Farrell, reflecting on the club’s form this year, said: “It has been frustrating.
“We know on our day, with our best squad available, we can compete with the top sides.
“We could, for example, have claimed a win against the current top side Warrington when we played them recently.
“Myself, the chairman Michael Nasey, and the coaching staff have been pleased with individual performances this season.
“We just need to focus on our current situation and do as much as we can to finish as high up the league as possible.
“It’s going to be difficult to go all the way to the play-off final but there’s no reason why we can’t do well and progress far.
“Our players certainly don’t fear anyone. They have every confidence in their own abilities.”
The Lions went ahead after only five minutes through Craig Barker, but Dave Holmes swiftly replied as Underbank rallied.
It was still 4-4 until just before the hour – no quarter being given in a superb fowards battle – when Lions centre Stu Davies nipped over to put the hosts ahead.
Only four minutes from time, however, Underbank had what looked like a decisive lead when Matt Garside scored an excellent try from dummy half and Holmes added the goal.
They were denied, however, by that late Nicholson effort in what was a cracking game.
Underbank face Gateshead Storm at The Cross on Saturday (2.30). The two sides shared a 32-32 draw when they last met in June.
Underbank – Burkinshaw, Holmes, Bostock, Senior, St Hilaire, Hawkyard, York, Valentine, Garside, Williams, Leach, Stewart, Keegan. Subs (all used): Dalby, Sharratt, Birt, Beal.
