Malton and Norton flanker Phil Ryan was sent off for throwing a punch in the first half of their North East Two 29-10 defeat at Huddersfield.

Malton had been awarded a penalty 15 metres out and in front of the posts when Huddersfield killed the ball.

But Ryan was shown the red card for throwing a punch at a Huddersfield player.

A rare break from their own 22 metre area saw Huddersfield quickly spread the ball wide and a three man overlap was too much for a depleted Malton to handle and the home side scored in the corner.

Just before the interval Huddersfield re-enacted the first try to extend the lead and James Grayshon converted. They scored again on the stroke of half-time

Malton's prolific points scorer Ian Cooke suffered severe concussion and was replaced by Tom Stephenson.

Huddersfield got another try before Malton struck back. Jason Simpson, returning after a lengthy lay off, entered the line from fullback and used all his speed and strength to force his way over in the corner.

In the last few minutes Huddersfield were awarded a try after a kick ahead was gathered by a player who appeared to be in an offside position.

Updated: 10:54 Monday, December 06, 2004