Relegation fears are now staring Malton and Norton in the face after their 11-6 defeat away to fellow North East 2 strugglers Morpeth.

Malton's fate will hinge on the results of the final round of games in two weeks.

The visitors took the lead after two minutes when Morpeth were penalised for holding onto the ball in a tackle. Ben Hough, making his debut for Malton, converted.

Malton dominated play and in the final minute of the first half a forward drive made ground deep into Morpeth's 22. Over-eagerness in their defence gave Ian Cooke the opportunity to add to Malton's score for a six point advantage at half-time.

Morpeth levelled with two penalties in the first five minutes of the second half.

With five minutes remaining a Morpeth kick was gathered in the Malton 22 but Malton decided to run the ball out of defence and were thwarted.

From a ruck, Morpeth were awarded a penalty for a Malton player holding onto the ball. A tap and drive to the line from five metres was successful and Morpeth took the lead and the points.

Liam Vaughan and Andy Mitchell caught the eye for Malton with fine performances and Richard Webster was as reliable as ever in the second row.

Updated: 09:34 Monday, April 11, 2005