A much-improved performance by Selby failed to bring any reward as they lost to Yorkshire League 1 visitors Bridlington.

With an 8-0 advantage after only five minutes, Bridlington held the lead for the whole of an entertaining game, eventually running out deserved 25-13 winners thanks to the domination of their back division.

After a minute Bridlington winger Mauritz Thirion touched down before scrum half Adam Thomas sent over a penalty.

But Selby countered with vim, hooker Shane Sellers crossing only for Dan Porter to miss the conversion.

Bridlington's ploy of kicking over the Selby defence saw their impressive speedy backs put the Selby defence under pressure. In a catch and drive prop forward Mark Floyd crossed, Thomas kicking the conversion.

Selby full-back Martin Bramley made an excellent try-saving tackle on Thirion. Bramley, Selby's man of the match, continued to impress with an excellent run into Bridlington territory, being well supported by Porter and Shaun Austerfield.

The first 20 minutes of the second half proved to be Selby's best spell with their forwards outstanding and Bramley and Austerfield carrying out some sterling defensive duties.

Porter kicked a penalty to the corner rather than have a pot at goal. The catch and drive to the line saw the Selby forwards maul over the line with second row forward Matthew Mills claiming the try. Porter missed the conversion but Selby were only 15-10 adrift.

But now Bridlington's backs exerted tremendous pressure. The ball was spread wide for centre Ryan Girking to touch down. The conversion went awry.

Bridlington second row forward Steve Wells was yellow-carded for foul play with the subsequent penalty kicked by Porter.

The hosts poured into attack only to be found short at the back for Thirion to cross in the first minute of added on time.

Thomas missed the conversion with Thirion spurning a late penalty, but Bridlington held out.

With Keighley winning at Ilkley Selby slipped to tenth place, just two points above the relegation spot.

Nothing less than wins at Huddersfield YMCA next week and at home to Wheatley Hills on December 17 will do now for Selby.

Updated: 11:31 Monday, December 05, 2005