Nestl Rowntree Rugby Union Club went down 27-16 in a close fought derby at York RI veterans.

Trees led twice through two Ivor Jackson penalties - their only reward for long periods of pressure. RI led 10-6 at the interval through tries from centre Dave Reed and lock Nigel Briggs.

Jackson landed a third penalty before RI's lively backs added tries from wingers Howard Reed and Phil Jackson.

Trees fought back with a converted try from Gavin Pender, but RI finished with a late converted try from centre Jim Naylor.

Updated: 11:01 Tuesday, November 18, 2003