Heworth fell to the foot of the National Conference League after their recent mini-revival came to an abrupt end with a 39-0 defeat at Millom.

The Villagers have a fine record against the Cumbrians but the hosts, division two's whipping boys in recent years, proved how much they have improved this season with their sixth win in nine games.

Heworth spokesman Ken Sykes said: "It was not as bad a performance as it seems, albeit disappointing. They've improved a lot and played very well with a tight defence."

Heworth battled away but were unable to break through, despite the efforts of half-back Paddy Handley and centre Phil Musgrave.

The Cumbrians went ahead in the third minute with a try by the excellent Paul Evans after the Heworth defence had spilled a kick, and tries came at regular intervals thereafter, barring a 15-minute period after the interval in which the Villagers tackled well, with forwards Wayne Foster, Sam Clarke and Will Neary working hard.

Nevertheless, Millom's four tries and three conversions in the first half were augmented by three tries, one conversion, a penalty and drop goal in the second half.

The home side's try-scorers were Evans, Craig Wilson, Thomas Sibley (2), Ian Armstrong, Wayne Ruddy and Anthony Dixon. Evans added the five goals and Graham Lupton the drop goal.

Huddersfield Sharks' shock win over Stanningley sees Heworth fall to the bottom of the table on points difference.

Updated: 11:06 Monday, November 08, 2004