Centre John Tattersfield was the hat-trick hero as a strong second half showing saw a vengeful York Acorn 'A' overcome a spirited York Groves 38-14 to book their place in the final of the York and District Amateur RL Cup.

Several weeks of inactivity meant Acorn, champions of Pennine League division five, struggled to find their rhythm early on against their divisional rivals - who had won the York Accident Cup semi-final between the sides - and their first half play was littered with sloppy passes and missed tackles.

But they still led 10-8 at the interval courtesy of a 25-yard solo try from Paul Sawyer and three Liam Gargan goals.

After the break, Acorn, with man of the match Tattersfield, second-row Matthew Chapman and experienced half-back Mick Calam excelling, took control, with their victory secured by further tries from prop Adam Endersby, Sawyer, Alex Cowton and Tattersfield's treble.

New Earswick All Blacks U11s gave a good showing but lost 28-12 to deserved winners Halfacres from the division above.

All Blacks wouldn't lay down and some excellent play saw Adam Johnson and Louis Pool score All Blacks' tries, Liam Dawson and Dean Layton adding goals. But it wasn't to be for the improving side, who were also held up behind the line three times.

New Earswick All Blacks U8s team played well in bad conditions against Oulton Raiders.

Most improved was Lewis Deighton, top tackler was Kieran Parker and man of the match was Liam Lowson.

The emerging 8s played a fine game, also against Oulton. Most improved was William Ireland, top tackler was Natasha Turner and man of the match was Zak Johnson.

New players aged between six and eight years are welcome at the club. All coaches are qualified. For more information, contact Emma on 01904 765837.

Updated: 11:34 Tuesday, April 20, 2004