Acorn on a roll

But it was not as comfortable as the scoreline might suggest, with Acorn only making sure of the game in the last 20 minutes as their superior fitness and speed paid rich dividends.

Saddleworth have now lost their last six games and have only the one league win this term, though at least the margin of defeat coupled with Heworth's bigger loss at Millom has seen the Pennines-based side leapfrog the Villagers at the bottom of the table.

Acorn, on the other hand, jumped into third place and now trail leaders Eastmoor by just two points with a game in hand.

They led 12-4 at the break, with Rangers responding to two converted tries with a touchdown for Danny Hattersal. The visitors also replied to an Acorn try early in the second half with a try by Matthew Bottom, goaled Neil Kirwan, to trail by just six points.

But then Fran Starkey burrowed in from acting-half to settle any nerves and Acorn, who always looked like they had an extra gear, confirmed their superiority in the latter stages with tries for Paul Day and Carl Barrow.

The Blue and Golds' first-half tries had come from full-back Kevin Brundrett, who also added four goals, and centre Mike Embleton, who was denied the try of the match in the second half when he was tackled into touch by the corner flag after a long, mazy run.

Winger Johnny Waldron probably took that accolade when he showed three defenders a clean pair of heels as he sprinted in for Acorn's first try of the second half.

York Acorn 'A' were also successful as they beat York Groves 24-6 to reach the final of the York and District ARL Cup.

Groves' sole try scorer was Matt Corr, while Jason Dunn added a penalty soon after.

Paul Fairclough had an outstanding game for the Terriers, well backed up by Neil Gullivar and Chris Corr.

The other semi-final between New Earswick All Blacks and Selby Warriors was postponed as the latter could not raise a team. It is yet to be confirmed if the game will be replayed or if All Blacks get a bye.

Updated: 11:07 Monday, November 08, 2004