A BRACE of tries from scrum-half Ben Johnson gave York RUFC's Under-16s victory in the North Yorkshire Bowl.

The junior Clifton Parkers travelled to Harrogate to play in the final, which was a round robin festival between York, Harrogate and Wensleydale.

York and Wensleydale clashed first in an entertaining game, which was locked 0-0 at half-time.

In the second period, York pressed on and, following an excellent kick by fly-half Henry Bradley, York were awarded a scrum 30 metres out.

The ball was passed down the line and Johnson took the ball back following a loop at the 22m line - showing excellent acceleration, strength and footwork as he broke through the centres and powered his way to the try line, scoring the only try of the match. The try was converted by Richard Downey and York won the game 7-0.

When Harrogate beat Wensleydale by a single penalty in the next match, they met York to decide the bowl winners.

A strong, darting run by Johnson secured York's first try and, just before half-time, following some excellent attacking play from York's backs and forwards, York second rower Tom Hirst made a devastating charge at Harrogate's defence.

The ball was recycled by York's hooker, Craig Marsden, and Richard Downey received the ball 30 yards out and ran in York's second try, scoring in the corner.

In the second half York's defence was superb.

Max Harland, who has not missed a tackle all year, was again on top form and Harrogate could not penetrate York's defence.

Harrogate were camped in York's half for the last ten minutes of the match but some strong play from Tom Hirst saw York absorb the attacks and, although Harrogate got a consolation try, York still ran out 12-5 winners - captain Matt Appleton receiving the trophy.